Joseph A. Califano Jr., a longtime contributor to America and a member of the magazine's board of directors, sat down for this week's podcast to discuss "Criminally Unjust," his analysis of America's flawed prison policy in the current issue. Mr. Califano argues that drug treatment is essential to reducing crime outside prison and improving the environment within. This is not a liberal or conservative issue, he argues, but should be embraced by all politicians interested in fighting crime.
"Dragen, Here Is Your Letter" is perhaps--no, actually, it is--the most moving piece I have read during my tenure at America. Lyn Burr Brignoli's account of teaching religious education to a Dragen, a young boy with Down Syndrome, was the winner of our "A Case for God" essay prize in 2008, and is this week's archive selection.
Finally, we are very happy to feature a video production from Matthew Moll and assistant editor Kerry Weber profiling an intentional Catholic community at Columbia University. To subscribe to our weekly videos visit our Youtube page.
Tim Reidy
