Written and directed by Kirya Traber in collaboration with the performers, Beyond Punishment. Judith Brown Fears, Demetrius Similien, Girls for Gender Equity

Unveiling the World Premiere of Beyond Punishment Stories of Justice and Healing.

The groundbreaking world premiere of “Beyond Punishment: Stories of Justice and Healing,” was an extraordinary interview-based theater performance co-produced by the Justice Beyond Punishment Collaborative (JBPC) and Ping Chong + Company. 

 

Community Capacity Development is thrilled to share this transformative initiative that aligns with our commitment to community empowerment and Human Justice.

 

The heart of this performance lies in the first pillar of the Justice Beyond Punishment Campaign, asserting that mass incarceration and carceral punishment are forms of violence, often referred to as state violence. This powerful assertion sets the stage for a profound exploration of the intersections and impacts of interpersonal and state violence.

 

Under the brilliant direction of Kirya Traber, the performance intimately delves into the lives of four remarkable individuals who navigate the complexities of their experiences with both interpersonal and state violence. What makes this production truly unique is that the storytellers themselves take center stage, providing a firsthand account of their journeys through life, leadership, and healing.

 

Kirya Traber, invited by JBPC, worked collaboratively with the performers, bringing together a group with lived experience of incarceration. Through interviews and workshops, the production was crafted, weaving together the individual narratives into a compelling and thought-provoking performance.

 

Beyond Punishment challenges us to envision justice beyond a punitive system that perpetuates further violence. The stories shared on stage serve as a poignant reminder of the need for a paradigm shift in our understanding of Human Justice and healing.

 

The Justice Beyond Punishment Campaign is a collective effort led by over 10 organizations in New York state. It serves as a narrative and culture change campaign, dedicated to strengthening movements focused on narrative change around violence, punishment, safety, and justice. Community Capacity Development is honored to stand alongside these organizations, contributing to a positive shift in societal perspectives.

 

As proud participants in the Justice Beyond Punishment Collaborative, we recognize the importance of community-driven initiatives that seek to redefine justice and healing. Beyond Punishment is a testament to the power of storytelling and its potential to inspire change at both an individual and societal level.

Join us in celebrating this transformative endeavor and be part of a movement that envisions a future where justice goes beyond punishment, fostering true healing and community resilience. Together, we can build a more just and compassionate society.

Author

Gabriel Comrie