Alliance Alert: Rikers Island has long been a symbol of systemic failure — where individuals, many of whom struggle with mental health and substance use challenges, face dangerous, inhumane, and often deadly conditions. From medical neglect to preventable deaths, the reality at Rikers makes it clear: this facility cannot continue to operate as it does today.
This Monday, July 28 at 10:00 AM, the New York City Council’s Criminal Justice Committee will hold a hearing to address the crisis. We are encouraging advocates, impacted individuals, family members, and community partners to attend, testify, and make your voices heard at City Hall.
When: New York City Hall – Monday, July 28, 10:00 AM
Bring your signs, your support, and your call for dignity and justice
Recent reporting and tragic events — including deaths resulting from lack of medical care and unsafe conditions — have underscored what we already know: people are suffering and dying inside Rikers. Reform is not enough. To stop the harm, Rikers must be closed.
This is not just about ending incarceration at one site — it’s about building a city that treats all people, regardless of their circumstances, with dignity, safety, and support. That includes expanding access to community-based mental health services, supportive housing, and alternatives to incarceration.
We hope you’ll stand with advocates on Monday to demand a safer, more humane future — one that does not rely on facilities like Rikers Island.
