In a move to foster safer communities and support individuals transitioning back to society, Mayor Brandon Johnson officially launched the City of Chicago’s Office of Re-entry, introducing Joseph Mapp as its inaugural director. The new office, part of the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety, aims to break the cycle of recidivism by addressing the barriers faced by residents re-entering society after incarceration.
“Joseph brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to lead the City of Chicago efforts to remove barriers to re-entry, empower residents to break the cycle of recidivism, and implement policies that are reflective of the needs of the population,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Johnson emphasized the importance of reducing recidivism as a cornerstone of the city’s community safety strategy.
Joseph Mapp
Mapp, a seasoned restorative justice advocate, has spent years leading community violence intervention programs and advocating for returning citizens. He has been on the Illinois Re-entry Council and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from Northeastern Illinois University and ongoing graduate studies in social work at the University of Chicago.
“As an expert in re-entry, Joseph knows first-hand the many barriers that make it difficult to successfully return home after incarceration,” said Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood.
Gatewood expressed confidence in Mapp’s ability to design and implement comprehensive policies, programs, and practices that address these barriers and create opportunities for returning residents across areas such as community safety, mental health, housing, education, employment, economic development, and other essential support systems.
The Office of Re-entry is backed by sustainable funding from the city’s Cannabis Regulation Tax Fund and is focused on addressing the challenges faced by over 10,000 individuals returning to Chicago each year, many to disinvested neighborhoods on the South and West sides. Its mission extends beyond reducing recidivism—it aims to provide holistic support to returning residents and their families, ensuring they have access to resources to thrive.
Ald. Walter Burnett (27th), a staunch advocate for second chances, praised Mapp’s appointment.
“This is about more than just re-entry; it’s about giving people the dignity and opportunities they deserve to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to our neighborhoods.”
For Mapp, the mission is deeply personal.“I am deeply honored to serve as Director of Re-entry for an administration that is committed to investing in opportunities to improve the lives of returning residents,” said Joseph Mapp. “I am also committed to creating restorative re-entry opportunities that enhance supportive services for returning residents holistically.”
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