Edward Sanders "Barakah"
Current Position: Expert in Residence at Washtenaw Community College
Background: In 1975, at seventeen, Edward Sanders, also known as Barakah, underwent a significant trial in the former Detroit Recorder's Court. Following the trial, he was committed to the Michigan Department of Corrections with a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole "at hard labor." Despite being a non-principal to first-degree murder, Barakah never accepted his non-discretionary court/prison fate as justice.
Educational Journey: Barakah's remarkable journey within the adult prison system reflects his resilience. He entered remedial classes and emerged as a jailhouse attorney. Upon reentry into society, he pursued higher education, becoming an undergraduate while in prison and, upon his 20217 release, a graduate candidate at the leading School of Social Work in the nation at Ann Arbor, University of Michigan. Barakah eventually graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.
Professional Engagements: Barakah has been actively involved in various capacities, showcasing his commitment to justice and social change. He serves as an Extern and board member with the Detroit Justice Center. Additionally, he has worked as a consultant and research assistant at the University of Michigan School of Information and the University of Michigan College of Literature, Science, and The Arts. Furthermore, he has contributed his legal expertise as part of the Washtenaw County Prosecuting Attorney Conviction Integrity and Expungement Unit.
Advocacy Work: Barakah is a passionate advocate for adolescents in the adult criminal justice system. He firmly believes, "Most adolescents subjected to the adult system are innocent of the sentence." As the Founder and CEO of Alternative Sentencing & Reentry Solutions, he is pivotal in addressing social determinants of health and providing mitigation, expert witness services, and reentry support.
Key Roles:
Founder and CEO, Alternative Sentencing & Reentry Solutions
Expert in Residence, Washtenaw Community College
Extern and Board Member, Detroit Justice Center
Consultant and Research Assistant, University of Michigan School of Information and
College of Literature, Science, and The Arts
Legal Assistance, Washtenaw County Prosecuting Attorney Conviction Integrity and Expungement
Unit
Edward Sanders "Barakah" exemplifies personal resilience and a dedicated professional working tirelessly towards creating positive change within the criminal justice system and advocating for the rights of those affected by it.