The paramount concern of all prisons is safety. This is understandable, but it still seems unfair when security eclipses the health and well-being of inmates, writes John T. Booth.

Solitary confinement is in widespread use in prisons across the United States and, in New York state alone, more than 3,000 inmates are isolated in 6-by-10 cells for over 23 hours a day.

It brings into sharp focus that, while the methods have changed over the past 2,000 years, torture remains part of prison life.

County supervisors approved $2.2 billion in June 2018 to build a replacement with the notable amendment that the new facility would be designed with a focus on mental health and rehabilitation.

Greg Boyle, S.J., will speak about the joys and challenges of helping those who have been caught up in cycles of gang violence to rebuild their lives.

Everything about the death penalty system seemed to be designed to deny hope.