Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein, along with members of the Governor’s Cabinet and other agency leaders, participated in a reentry simulation organized by the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NCDAC) on Monday. The event aimed to give participants insight into the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration back into society.
The simulation was designed to mimic four weeks of post-release life. Participants assumed fictional identities as reentrants and navigated stations that represented real-world interactions with organizations such as the DMV, court, probation office, bank, employer, housing providers, transportation services, plasma centers, treatment centers, churches, counseling centers, social service agencies, career centers, and pawn shops.
Governor Stein emphasized the importance of supporting reentry efforts in North Carolina. “Strengthening reentry support in North Carolina is both the right thing to do and the smart thing to do,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Far too often, when people leave incarceration, they find door after door closed to them when we should be opening doors of opportunity for them. Anna and I are grateful for this experience to learn firsthand the struggles that people leaving incarceration face.”
First Lady Anna Stein highlighted her involvement with the Joint Reentry Council and noted specific barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. “Removing barriers to reintegration for incarcerated people is something I’m proud to work on as a member of the Joint Reentry Council,” said First Lady Anna Stein. “Those barriers include difficulty finding housing and transportation, or getting an ID. Today’s simulation offers us a look into what those barriers are like, so we can better collaborate across all state agencies to make sure our incarcerated population has the best chance at successful reentry for the long term.”
The event was organized by NCDAC’s Division of Rehabilitation and Reentry. According to Leslie Dismukes, Secretary of N.C. Department of Adult Correction: “Reentry simulations give participants a firsthand look at the challenges and difficulties folks face when they leave our custody. This understanding is critical to helping us build and fund better systems and processes for successful reentry into our communities. I’m thankful for the support the Governor, First Lady, and cabinet secretaries have shown toward rehabilitation and reentry efforts of our department and across state government.”
Deputy Secretary George Pettigrew also commented on leadership participation: “It is inspiring to see the Governor, First Lady, and other state leaders taking the time to participate in today’s reentry simulation,” said Deputy Secretary of Rehabilitation and Reentry George Pettigrew. “When more people understand the challenges people face as they transition from incarceration back into the community, support grows for rehabilitation and reentry programs and services.”
North Carolina has adopted a comprehensive approach through initiatives such as its Reentry 2030 Strategic Plan aimed at improving rehabilitation services for returning citizens. More information about this initiative can be found here.
