Lift Them Up

Halfway through the commencement ceremony for MMC’s college program at the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility just outside New York City, its two class speakers nervously approached the podium, having decided to give their speeches together.

Like their fellow graduates, they’d taken care to dress for the occasion, which is among the most anticipated events at the facility: Cynthia A., with her hair pinned up, Ashleigh W., with sandals on.

“Rise above and keep moving forward,” Cynthia said. “Be proud of what you’ve accomplished because you are worthy of it and so much more.” Emphasizing the commitment that had gotten them to this day, Ashleigh numbered the obstacles they’d overcome. “How many times did you take a class and say it was your last? How many of you felt there was no need to keep going after getting your associate degree?” she said.

They didn’t need to be nervous; at the ceremony, held on May 30, there was only support, only encouragement pouring from those who’d gathered in the facility’s gymnasium to celebrate the Class of 2024. Among the audience were graduates’ family members and classmates, faculty, and administrators, who’ve seen the effort it takes—often over many years or even decades—to finish a degree in prison. Their cheers reverberated off the gym walls.