Bowie State University to Host National Discussion on Mental Health, Bail Reform with Benjamin Crump and Dr. Rashad Richey

Bowie State University, in partnership with Equal Justice Now, will host a National Panel Discussion on Mental Health & Bail Reform on February 23, 2026, from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump will lead the event, with Dr. Rashad Richey serving as moderator.


The program will bring together elected officials, law enforcement leaders, and community advocates to talk about two major issues: access to mental health care and how the cash bail system works in the U.S.

The first panel will focus on mental health, including why many people struggle to get care and how those gaps can lead to involvement with the justice system. 

Panelists include:

Dr. Matasha Harris – Associate Dean, Bowie State University's College of Professional Studies 

Kim Ogg – Former District Attorney of Harris County, Texas 

Dionne Bussey-Reeder – CEO, Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative 

Mario Williams – Civil Rights Attorney and President, HDR Law Firm 

Dr. Ayanna Lynch – Associate Professor, Bowie State University's Department of Psychology 

Dayvon Love – Director of Public Policy, Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle 

The second panel will examine whether cash bail is fair and what reforms could make the system more equal.

Panelists include: 

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake – Former Mayor of Baltimore 

Kim Ogg – Former District Attorney of Harris County, Texas 

Malcolm P. Ruff – Civil Rights and Trial Attorney and Associate, Murphy, Falcon & Murphy

Dr. Matasha Harris – Associate Dean, Bowie State University's College of Professional Studies 

Dayvon Love – Director of Public Policy, Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. A book signing with Crump will follow the discussion. To register or to learn more about the event, visit: Feb 23: Equal Justice Now National Panel Discussion at Bowie State University

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