S4EP10 The Deserving: Elizabeth Vartkessian on Mercy, Mitigation, and Second Chances

Context means everything. In this episode of Just Justice, Jessica Henry speaks with Elizabeth Vartkessian, author of the terrific new book The Deserving and founder of Advancing Real Change (ARC), about the power of mitigation evidence to reveal the life experiences and contexts in which people cause serious harm. Together they explore how childhood trauma, poverty, violence, and systemic failures shape lives, and what those histories mean for accountability and punishment. From the death penalty to re-sentencing, clemency, rehabilitation, and second chances, this conversation challenges us to imagine a criminal justice system rooted in human dignity, compassion, and public safety.   Learn more about Liz's work and order your copy of The Deserving: https://www.elizabethvartkessian.com/   Learn more about Jessica Henry at jessicahenryjustice.com.   Audio Production by Kaz Araki