In the years leading up to 1989, a group of socially conscious incarcerated men at Green Haven Correctional Facility engaged in research, studies, and analyses focused on the disproportionate incarceration rates of Black and Latino individuals in New York State prisons. Their efforts resulted in the creation of The Non-Traditional Approach to Social and Criminal Justice Reform (NTA), also known as the Seven Neighborhood Study.

 

In 1988, Eddie Ellis, co-author of the NTA, transferred from Green Haven to Sing Sing Correctional Facility to pursue a one-year master’s degree in theology through the New York Theological Seminary (NYTS). After earning his degree, Ellis returned to Green Haven and submitted a proposal for a pilot project to Rev. Dr. Ernest Davis Jr., Senior Chaplain of the Green Haven Protestant Center. The proposal was approved, and the pilot project was named the Inter-Faith & Life Study Group.

 

In late 1989, the Inter-Faith & Life Study Group launched its first class in the prison church, with approximately 30 men enrolling. Eddie Ellis facilitated the sessions, which covered topics such as leadership development, critical thinking, personal growth, problem-solving, social analysis, data collection, public speaking, writing skills, spiritual empowerment, and community development. The group also helped participants prepare for their reentry into society as productive citizens upon release.

 

The first class graduated 20 men. Shortly after, the group changed its name to the Resurrection Study Group. As some graduates were transferred to other prisons, they established satellite groups of the Resurrection Study Group in those facilities. Over the years, the program has been implemented in about 25 New York State prisons.

 

In 2014, Eddie Ellis passed away. In 2021, Cush Kirkland incorporated the Resurrection Study Group, Inc. as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the harms of mass incarceration on individuals, families, and communities. The organization continues to honor and uphold the legacy and mission of its founder, Eddie Ellis.