What Did You Do for Spring Break?: One March Match Student Learned about Local Justice at Red Hook Village Court

For the second year in a row, CCE’s March Match initiative provided an engaging and enlightening “alternative Spring Break” for Bard students who stayed on or near campus during March 15-23 and decided to dedicate some of their time to volunteering. Based on their skills and interests, 13 students were matched with community-based organizations that included Hudson Catskill Housing Coalition (Catskill), Thrift 2 Fight (Tivoli), Village of Red Hook Justice Court, Red Hook Responds, Kingston Land Trust, and Midtown Kingston Arts District.

Lin Khant ‘26 is a student in the Global and International Studies Program and is originally from Yangon, Myanmar, where he studied at Parami University. Read on to hear what he had to say about his March Match experience.

Where did you volunteer for March Match?
I volunteered at the Red Hook Village Court under the supervision of Hon. Jonah Triebwasser (Village Judge) and Rebecca Kent (Village Clerk). My primary tasks included organizing data and managing case records, which helped keep the court’s operations running smoothly. I also had the privilege of observing court proceedings for two hours, where I watched cases involving driving under the influence, domestic violence, and financial disputes. After the sessions, Hon. Triebwasser kindly allowed us to ask questions, offering deeper insights into the judicial process and his approach to the cases.

What did you learn about the Village Court?
Volunteering at the Red Hook Village Court taught me about the day-to-day operations of a local judicial system. I gained a clear understanding of how cases are handled—from filing to resolution—and the importance of staying organized to ensure efficiency. Interacting with the judge and the clerk allowed me to see the dedication required to uphold justice and the complexities involved in navigating their roles. It was eye-opening to see how a small court like this serves as a cornerstone of the community.

Did your volunteer work teach you anything about community issues?
The cases I observed—drunk driving, domestic violence, and financial disputes—shed light on some pressing social issues. Watching these proceedings made me realize how common these problems are and how they affect real people in our community. It underscored the vital role of a fair and accessible legal system in addressing these challenges, offering accountability, and supporting those involved. This experience left me with a stronger appreciation for the justice system’s impact on society.

Watch the CCE events page or follow our Instagram to find out about volunteering opportunities this semester.

Post Date: 03-06-2025