Minnesota Department of Corrections

MCF–Moose Lake held a Memorial Day ruck march to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country. Participants carried the American flag and the POW/MIA flag through the facility grounds. The march served as a solemn reminder of the purpose of Memorial Day and the responsibility to remember those who did not come home. The event also highlighted the American Legion Post established at MCF–Moose Lake along with the Sons of the American Legion Squadron. These groups give incarcerated veterans and supporters a structured way to remain connected to service, honor military sacrifice, and contribute to something larger than themselves. The ruck march was a meaningful Memorial Day observance and a strong example of service in action.

Incarcerated individuals at MCF-Shakopee and Rush City recently took part in a national literary event with the Freedom Reads organization. At each facility, there was a discussion session followed by the opportunity to cast a vote for the Inside Literary Prize, the nation’s only major book award judged entirely by people serving prison sentences. Later in the day, an author read and engaged with attendees. Freedom Reads also installed libraries with 500 curated books in Shakopee’s living units, expanding meaningful access to literature. “Our goal is to put one of these Freedom Reads libraries in every prison within every housing unit in every prison in America,” said Craig Gore with Freedom Reads. WCCO attended the event at Shakopee. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gpc9JqKj

Happening tomorrow in Minneapolis! Join Art from the Inside for Spoken Heart: From My Heart to Yours Attendees will view work from incarcerated artists and learn about the stories behind each piece. They will also have the opportunity to take part in a hands-on art activity of their own, creating a postcard to send messages to the artists. The free event is Saturday from 1-4 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church 1200 South Marquette Avenue, Minneapolis. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gAyk5juq

Today, on Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Newspapers have long served as an important resource for what occurs in our communities. This holds true for the community within the walls of Minnesota Correctional Facility-Stillwater. The Prison Mirror is the longest-running prison newspaper in the country, chronicling nearly 140 years of history and stories from the inside. While MCF-Stillwater is slated to close in 2029, this iconic newspaper will likely continue publishing at another DOC facility. KARE 11 visited the facility to learn about this unique publication: https://lnkd.in/gAK5R84x

DOC leaders held a virtual town hall May 14 to provide an update on the implementation of the Minnesota Rehabilitation and Reinvestment Act (MRRA). View here: https://lnkd.in/gZjbnjeU

Join us for a virtual public hearing on the proposed 2911 Jail Standards Rule on May 28 at 9 a.m. This is an opportunity to share your feedback, ask questions, and participate in the rulemaking process. Access hearing details and participation instructions on our rulemaking website: https://lnkd.in/gPnAjgTA

Tonight! Virtual Town Hall: Minnesota Rehabilitation & Reinvestment Act (MRRA)   Join us at 6:30 p.m. for updates on the implementation of MRRA. Commissioner Paul Schnell and key MRRA and DOC leaders will provide important information and take part in a Q&A session.   To access the Town Hall, join at the following link. Passcode 369910. https://lnkd.in/gfG8zBDS

Twenty-three participants graduated from the Native American Culture and Education Project (NACEP) at MCF-Lino Lakes March 23. During the ceremony, graduates reflected on the powerful lessons they gained through the program, including the importance of the Seven Grandfather Teachings in reclaiming Indigenous identity, strengthening cultural connections, and finding spiritual peace. Participants shared how values like courage, wisdom, and love, honesty, humility, truth, and respect inspired them to pursue positive change and break the cycle of intergenerational incarceration. Graduates spoke about their commitment to "walking the red road" and becoming strong leaders, fathers, family members, and role models for future generations. Many described the program as a turning point, helping them move from feelings of isolation and identity loss toward a future grounded in cultural pride, self-respect, and healing. Watch the ceremony: https://lnkd.in/g5mhcTTi

This Correctional Employees Week (May 3-9), we proudly recognize the hardworking staff across the Department of Corrections. Whether supporting safety, rehabilitation, healthcare, programming, operations, or administration, your dedication changes lives and helps build a stronger, safer Minnesota. Thank you to all our correctional employees for your service, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.