Our Work
Over the course of our program, we have taught at least four hundred students in the New York Department of Corrections system alone. This effort is made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers, many of whom are former champion collegiate debaters and all of whom care deeply about the effects of mass incarceration.
Just as important as our direct service work inside the classroom are our efforts to empower the voices of incarcerated and justice-involved individuals and communities as a whole. This includes our fellowship program for formerly incarcerated individuals, public events and debates, as well as advocacy and reform projects.
Our work has garnered coverage by the popular press, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, City and State and Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.
Make a donation.
Rikers Debate Project is constantly working to expand the services and resources we can provide to our students. Donations help us launch new classes, work with students in new cities and languages, and reach more incarcerated people who want to learn the art of debate. Donations also support class materials, formerly incarcerated fellowship stipends, video content for incarcerated and more.