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New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

A woman holds a sign demanding the closure of the Rikers Island jail. Activists are criticizing the rising death toll and inhumane living conditions, and New York City has pledged to close Rikers Island in 2027. (Photo by Sam Clegg)

Opinion: Close Rikers now

Amid an alarming rise in suicides, neglect and unlivable conditions, it is incumbent upon Mayor Bill de Blasio to shut down Rikers Island jail complex and stop wasting taxpayer money on pointless reforms.
Asha Ramachandran, Opinion Editor September 30, 2021

After touring Rikers Island on Monday, Sept. 27, Mayor Bill de Blasio noted the city’s progress in improving the jail. However, he failed to mention the deadly overcrowding,...

Locked in the Path of Danger

Locked in the Path of Danger

Amelia Reardon, Contriuting Writer September 18, 2017
With the recent increase in disasters in the past months, the question arises of what happens to those who cannot assure their safety — inmates in the U.S. prison system — in the face of these devastating forces of nature.
NY must raise age of criminal responsibility

NY must raise age of criminal responsibility

Annie Cohen, Deputy Opinion Editor March 30, 2015
Gov. Cuomo's proposal to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 18 is a step in the right direction.

Reform of Rikers Island long overdue

WSN Editorial Board February 22, 2015
The abuse of vulnerable populations at Rikers Island needs to be systematically addressed with training reform.
Christina's Case: Racial insults deter productive political discourse

Christina’s Case: Racial insults deter productive political discourse

Christina Coleburn, Deputy Opinion Editor March 30, 2014
When Republicans and Democrats shift their focus, they will find that they can address issues that are relevant to minorities.

Brooklyn bus shooter should be tried as a juvenile

March 24, 2014
Kathon Anderson, a 14-year-old, allegedly shot and killed an innocent bystander and is being tried as an adult.
U.S. prison practice of solitary confinement is torture

U.S. prison practice of solitary confinement is torture

October 7, 2013
In the wake of the death of Herman Wallace, the WSN Editorial Board makes the case that the US prison system's practice of isolation violates basic human rights and constitutes torture.