In January 1994, I read an article titled “Let ‘em Rot,” published on the editorial page of The Wall Street Journal. In the article, John DiIulio, a distinguished Princeton professor, argued for stricter criminal justice policies, advocating for “truth in sentencing” measures that eliminated parole and required people to serve their full prison terms. He supported his stance with statistics, suggesting that society lacked the understanding of human behavior necessary to prepare incarcerated individuals for successful reintegration. Instead, he emphasized punishment through longer sentences.
Professor DiIulio’s prominence as an academic gave weight to his ideas, influencing politicians of the era who championed the “tough on crime” ethos. He coined the term “Super Predator,” which prominent figures like then-Senator Joe Biden and First Lady Hillary Clinton used in their arguments to support increased prison construction and harsher sentencing laws.
Wanting to advocate for more educational opportunities in prison, I wrote an unsolicited letter to Professor DiIulio, employing the same strategy that had connected me with Professor Norval Morris. In my letter, I introduced myself and described how books by scholars had transformed the way I thought. I explained that this shift in mindset had prepared me to contribute positively to society. I argued that instead of letting people “rot,” society should invest in educational programs to help incarcerated individuals prepare for better futures.
To my surprise and gratitude, Professor DiIulio wrote back. He clarified that he did not support the sensationalized title the Wall Street Journal editors had chosen for his article. Furthermore, he offered to send me books he had authored and invited me to share my thoughts. When I agreed, he sent several works, including Barbed Wire Bureaucracy, Governing Prisons, and No Escape. These books deepened my understanding of the complex systems governing incarceration and reinforced my commitment to advocating for reform.
Our initial correspondence blossomed into a mentorship that profoundly influenced my journey through prison. When I transferred to a medium-security facility, Professor DiIulio organized a unique opportunity: he coordinated a field trip for his Princeton students to visit the prison. During the visit, I spent the day engaging with the students, Professor DiIulio, and Warden Dennis Luther, another influential figure in my life whose impact I have written about extensively.
John DiIulio’s openness to dialogue and willingness to mentor me despite our differing perspectives underscored the transformative power of education and human connection. His mentorship not only expanded my knowledge but also provided a platform to engage with others in meaningful discussions about reform and rehabilitation. His influence continues to resonate in my advocacy work and in the mission of Prison Professors to promote education and opportunities for incarcerated individuals.
Later, Professor DiIulio recanted his earlier work, and expressed regret for coining the term Super Predator.
Self-Directed Learning Question:
- “How can you respectfully engage with people whose views differ from yours, and use those interactions to expand your understanding and personal growth?”
