Kareem Brooks: From Incarceration to Research and Advocacy

Kareem Brooks: From Incarceration to Research and Advocacy

From Dog In The Yard by Dog In The Yard

April 20, 2026 · 38 min · Episode 196

About this episode

Kareem Brooks discusses his journey from incarceration to becoming a researcher and advocate for those affected by the criminal justice system.

Kevin “Kareem” Brooks is a researcher and advocate who spent over 24 years incarcerated and now focuses on examining the long-term impact of prison on individuals and communities. While serving his sentence, Kareem pursued higher education and earned a degree in Social Sciences, using that foundation to critically analyze the systems that shaped his experience. Today, his work centers on what he calls “carceral sickness,” exploring the physical, psychological, and social consequences of incarceration that extend far beyond prison walls. As a peer advocate with New York County Defender Services, Kareem supports individuals navigating the criminal legal system, helping them access resources and understand their rights while providing guidance rooted in lived experience. In this episode of Dog In The Yard, Kareem shares insight into the deeper effects of incarceration and the need for a more restorative approach to justice. Dog In The Yard: Real Stories From Real Comrades 🎥 Full Episodes: YouTube.com/@DogInTheYard 📱 Follow: @dogintheyardpodcast 📩 Booking & Inquiries: therealdogintheyard@gmail.com 🌐 Join the movement: dogintheyard.org

People in this episode

Guest: Kevin “Kareem” Brooks

Topics covered

  • incarceration
  • advocacy
  • criminal justice
  • social impact
  • restorative justice
  • peer support

Keywords

  • carceral sickness
  • prison impact
  • social sciences
  • criminal legal system
  • restorative approach
  • peer advocacy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: New York County Defender Services

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