Content area
This qualitative study aimed to expand on research discussing education as a means of reducing recidivism and affirming formerly incarcerated students’ lived experiences by collecting testimonios. This study simultaneously examined the effects culturally responsive educational practices have on the rehabilitation of justice-involved youth (JIY). The study considered how formerly incarcerated youth and community-based organization (CBO) staff utilize transformational resistance to enact change in their personal lives through community- building and advocacy. Testimonios from staff who work with formerly incarcerated youth were essential in displaying the collaborative nature of community-based programming. The study also highlighted the need for folks with lived experience within the CBO setting. The results of this study contributed to ongoing conversations about juvenile justice and the roles education plays in promoting critical awareness. Finally, utilizing testimonio as a methodology for data collection centers the voices of students and folks with lived experience both in carceral settings and as participants in reentry or diversion services.