Meet our 2023 A2I Fellows!
Norman Gaines Jr.is aspiring to be the nation's most renowned trauma therapist. Norman has been studying urban trauma and its effects for over 20 years. He has an article written titled, “Exiled: Reflections on Youth Incarceration from a Lifer, Incarcerated at 17.” His experience as one of a handful of incarcerated youth who was sentenced to life without the possibility of release in Connecticut
Leighton Johnson is a social activist, justice advocate, community organizer, youth mentor and an entrepreneur. The driving force behind his advocacy comes from his own experiences in CT prisons. Leighton has educated the public about the experience of living inside solitary confinement. Leighton was instrumental in getting legislation passed that ensures oversight and limits the use of solitary
Mr. Ernest Francis is a Paralegal, writer, and advocate from Hartford. He served 32 years in CT prisons and was released after being granted a Commutation by the Board of Pardons and Parole. His most notable work includes a victory in the Appellate Court on a criminal defendant’s right to counsel when filing a Motion to Correct an Illegal Sentence and the recognition of Rastafari as a religion wi