Youth Represent

“They are telling us loud and clear what they need: investments, resources, and real opportunities to grow and thrive. It’s our job to listen, and to act.” — Kate Rubin, Director of Policy, Youth Represent

On Thursday, October 22, we joined young people, families, advocates and elected officials at Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem to celebrate Youth Justice Action Month.

Speakers took to the open mic to share what youth justice and community safety mean to them. Among the speakers were six members of our Youth Committee, and Assembly Members Latrice Walker and Andrew Hevesi.

We are calling on Albany to pass three bills:

• #Right2RemainSilent: Children’s Early Access to Counsel. No child under 18 could be questioned by police until they’ve spoken with a lawyer. Sponsored by Sen. Jamaal Bailey and AM Andrew Hevesi.

• Youth Justice & Opportunities Act. Alternatives to incarceration and immediate record sealing for young people 25 and under. Sponsored by Sen. Zellnor Myrie and AM Latrice Walker.

• Youth Justice Innovation Fund. $50 million a year for community-based programs serving young people ages 12 to 25, paid for with money already set aside for Raise the Age. Sponsored by Sen. Cordell Cleare and AM Gabriella Romero.

Thank you to the partners who stood with us. Read the full press release at The Legal Aid Society's website. Link in BIO 🔗

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