Corrections_Today_Summer_2025_Vol.87_No.2

human rights frameworks (e.g. Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), Mandela Rules, etc.) Policy Statement: Acknowledging the broad spectrum of reli gious beliefs, correctional facilities should adhere to principles of voluntary participation and equitable access to religious practices for all indi viduals. Within the constraints of safety, security, and order, facilities should: chaplaincy or designated staff provide oversight and guidance on religious matters and activities. This includes coordinating with volunteers to deliver programs that align with the identified religious needs of the individuals being served. B. Develop written policies and guidelines to facilitate decision-making and effec tive communication between chaplaincy staff and facility administrators regarding religious practices. C. Provide appropriate facilities and support services needed for individual and group religious activities. D. Accommodate periodic religious or ritual observances, balancing these requests with the necessity of maintaining safety, security, and order. This includes respect ing differences among various faiths while ensuring an environment free from religious coercion. A. Ensure that professionally trained

appropriate as staff to others in cus tody, regardless of religious affiliations or identities, and acknowledging their contributions as meaningful to fostering understanding and support within the community. G. Allow trained individuals in custody to provide services to others within the facil ity, under the supervision of designated staff. H. Guarantee that participation or nonpar ticipation in religious activities does not influence evaluations, program eligibility, or access to other opportunities. I. Align religious accommodations with current laws and judicial precedents to safeguard individuals’ rights to practice their faith. J. Document any limitations or restrictions placed on religious practices, including the rationale behind such decisions. K. Offer faith-based services in the native languages spoken by the population, where feasible. This Public Correctional Policy was ratified by the American Correctional Association Delegate Assem bly at the 120 th Congress of Correction in San Diego, CA, on August 15, 1990. It was last reviewed and reaffirmed at the Winter Conference in Orlando, FL on January 14, 2025.

E. Ensure all individuals have access to chaplains or religious advisors.

F. Recognize the unique value and lived experiences of individuals with prior criminal histories, permitting them to provide services as volunteers or, when

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