Discussions

Can we truly break the cycle of crime by focusing on healing instead of punishment? This question is central to today’s justice reform debate. The powerful book by Hassan Nemazee, "Persia, Politics & Prison," shares his personal story and offers a clear look at how the system often fails both victims and offenders.

The numbers prove how broken the system is. Almost half of all federal offenders are rearrested within eight years of release. For state offenders, the number jumps to about eight out of ten. These figures make one thing clear. Our justice system is not fixing the problem. It is not building safer towns or giving people the tools to start fresh.

The punishment model focuses on making offenders pay. But this method leaves lasting harm. Victims often walk away without closure. Offenders leave prison without skills or support. Communities remain divided, and the cycle keeps turning.

Restorative justice offers a new path. It brings together victims, offenders, and the community. They meet to talk about the harm caused and decide how to repair it. This process builds healing and trust. It gives victims a voice, teaches offenders accountability, and helps everyone move forward.

This approach works because it looks at root causes. Many crimes come from broken homes, unmet needs, or a lack of hope. When offenders face the real impact of their actions, they are more likely to change. When communities welcome returning citizens instead of shutting them out, real second chances can happen.

Programs built on restorative ideas already show promise. The Residential Drug Abuse Program, a treatment program in federal prisons, has cut repeat crimes by about 15%. Why? Because participants reflect on their choices. They learn empathy, responsibility, and skills for healthier lives.

But true change means more than a few programs. It calls for a new way of thinking about justice. Instead of asking, “What punishment fits this crime?” we should ask, “How can we repair the harm and stop it from happening again?” That shift opens the door to real solutions.

Our neighborhoods deserve better than a system that fails most of the time. Victims deserve real healing. Offenders deserve chances to rebuild. Families deserve stronger, safer communities.

Dive deeper into these issues and explore one man’s powerful journey by visiting Hassan Nemazee’s website. Persia, Politics & Prison," a compelling testimony and a call for change, as well as learn more about his story, and find upcoming speaking engagements to hear his insights firsthand.