Returning Citizens Re-create Iconic Atlanta Symbols

Returning Citizens Re-create Iconic Atlanta Symbols

FORSYTH, Ga. –Returning citizens housed at Metro Reentry Facility (RF) began painting murals of iconic Atlanta symbols throughout the facility to create a community atmosphere. The Atlanta Art Project was designed to change the prison environment, thus creating a change in the men. The returning citizens behind the murals created them to reflect where they came from, but also as a look ahead to where they are going.  They are hopeful that the men in the program will see the iconic scenes of Atlanta and it will help create a new outlook on their future.  The men began working on the murals over nine months ago and have created scenes depicting Stone Mountain, Centennial Olympic Park, CNN Center, Georgia Aquarium, and many more.

“The iconic murals are an inspiration to all the returning citizens,” said Commissioner Timothy C. Ward.  “Our goal is for the offenders to embrace the community of Atlanta and return to society as productive citizens.” 

Metro RF utilizes evidence-based practices and community collaboration to address all barriers for participants’ successful reentry back into society.  The facility targets returning citizens who will be released into the Metro Atlanta counties of Clayton, Cobb, Dekalb, Fulton and Gwinnett.  It provides opportunities for simultaneous participation in academic and vocational education programs, personal development, extracurricular activities, and community service; in addition to counseling, cognitive, and substance abuse programming.

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About the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC)

The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees. For more information on the GDC, call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.gdc.ga.gov