EJP is committed to building inclusive, people-centered learning communities on campus and at Danville Correctional Center. Given the current climate, and considering feedback we’ve received from members inside and out, we are currently reimagining how we organize our work around community and belonging, including its purpose, mission, and activities. While we have paused Critical Conversations, we are not stepping away from the concerns that motivated such work.
Accordingly, we hosted a book club to discuss DEI Deconstructed, by Lily Zheng, an acclaimed strategist, author, thought leader, and speaker. We met three times to consider how we can apply the author’s ideas to our mission as outlined in EJP’s Inclusion Commitment.
We are committed to informing EJP members about our progress as we move forward. Here, we’re sharing some of the key take aways from the book club:
Reflections Across Three Meetings
A central theme that emerged was the tension between performative action and genuine, trust-building change.
As author Lily Zheng emphasizes, “Integrating DEI throughout an organization requires knowing how to create change and build trust, and being intentional and strategic about the vision you’re trying to integrate.” We explored this idea through critical reflection on our own community and belonging initiatives. We agreed that, moving forward, this should not simply be a public-facing display of values, but serve as an internal guide, something strong enough to inform decisions, especially in uncertain or challenging contexts.
The process will require not just vision but also continuous feedback, critical self-examination, and a willingness to change course when needed. Zheng reminds us that in times of uncertainty, our commitments should be strong enough to guide decision-making.
Critical Questions We Raised in Connection to EJP’s Work
• What does “equity” mean in a space where access is structurally limited?
• How can EJP and similar organizations ensure DEI efforts are authentic, inclusive, and not merely symbolic?
• What does accountability look like, and to whom are we accountable: to inside members, outside members, or the broader EJP mission?
• How can we attract individuals who are skeptical of or opposed to our mission while still fostering meaningful participation?
Key Discussion Points
Members of the book club discussed how community-building programs can receive pushback and resistance. Mandatory trainings can feel reactive or punitive, particularly when framed without clarity or purpose. Intentionality is important to the process. Those involved can feel that if nothing comes from the initiative that it’s pointless.
If there is a gap between intent and impact, it can undermine our work. Building trust is essential and giving voice to everyone is essential to success.
Takeaways and Next Steps
The prison walls separating us are a major obstacle. All of our book club members were people on the outside.
We are actively rethinking the Critical Conversation as a requirement. Inside members continue to express appreciation for the initiative, but want more opportunities for open conversation with outside members as well.
The Critical Conversation was originally initiated by inside members, with one topic each year selected by them to guide discussion. The goal was to create opportunities for shared reflection and dialogue.
At an all student meeting this past spring, EJP’s incarcerated scholars were given a survey about their opinions about the Critical Conversation. Few filled it out, and those who did generally viewed it as important and needed. They also said they would like more connection with outside members.
Moving forward, we are working to ensure that our initiatives are closely aligned with a community-building mission and values.
How to Get Involved!
We’re actively inviting new members to help shape this process! If you’re interested in contributing or learning more, reach out to Julia Spielmann at juliaspielmann0@gmail.com.