Rally in Rochester urges lawmakers to pass parole reform bills

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Organizers gathered in downtown Rochester on Wednesday to urge lawmakers to pass parole reform.

Formerly incarcerated individuals, crime survivors, and community organizers came together to advocate for bills that would ensure access to parole based on who they are today, what they have done to change, and if they pose a risk if released.

Tracie Adams shared her story, saying she was 25 and pregnant when her brother-in-law murdered her daughter’s father. She said she was angry and eventually became incarcerated herself.

“When I got in there, I met a lot of women, and I listened to these stories,” Adams said. “And then I thought about what I can do different to help me and to help the community.” …