Beyond the Ivory Tower: The Need for Collective Activism in Convict Criminology

Abstract

In this essay, I argue that the Division of Convict Criminology must reject the academic status quo by engaging in collective activism. Academia convinces scholars that the primary goal of their work is individual accolades with little regard for creating substantive change in the world. In doing so, academia exploits marginalized populations, like convicts, by pillaging data while off ering little meaningful assistance to marginalized groups. As Convict Criminology continues to expand its reach within academia, we have a duty to reject the academic status quo by adopting the scholarvist model that advocates for scholarship coupled with activism. It is our responsibility to combat the structural violence inherent in both academia and the criminal injustice system. This essay is a call for collective activism that targets the foundations of oppressive social institutions. The time has come for us to move beyond public statements and towards policy change that creates a more equitable society for current and future convicts.