Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties’ Post

As we reflect on Mother's Day weekend, we are reminded of the countless women who are impacted by mass incarceration. Let's delve deeper into how this system affects mothers and their families. 👨👧👧 Did you know? 58% of women behind bars are mothers to children under 18. Their absence reverberates through families, leaving lasting scars. ♻  3 in 10 individuals who completed our program had a parent or caregiver incarcerated during their upbringing.  🚫 The impact? When families are torn apart by the carceral system, the likelihood of children becoming justice-impacted as adults increases significantly. But there's hope. By investing in workforce development programs, like The Last Mile, within women's correctional facilities, we pave the road to meaningful employment for mothers post-release. Breaking the cycle of incarceration begins with empowering mothers to return to their families and communities with the skills and support they need. #MassIncarceration #FamilyReunification #BreakTheCycle #PavingtheRoad

Breaking News Did you know that the face of imprisonment is changing? For years, we've seen a rise in the incarceration rates among black and Hispanic males. But here's what's really eye-opening: over the last decade or so, there has been a staggering increase in the number of incarcerated women, specifically black women! It's heartbreaking to think about the impact this has on families. These are often the same women who sit in visitation rooms, supporting their incarcerated loved ones. And now, they too are being locked up at an alarming rate. This leaves their children out here to deal with trauma on their own, which sadly increases their chances of ending up behind bars as well. The numbers don't lie - gender plays a significant role in our prison system. It goes beyond just locking up fathers; now we're witnessing mothers being taken away from their children too. This cycle perpetuates itself as these kids grow up without proper support systems and guidance. So why is it important for us to be aware of this shift? Because if we don't address this issue head-on, future generations will continue to suffer from its consequences. Here are some key takeaways: Gender imbalance: While men still make up the majority of prisoners overall, there has been a rapid increase in female incarceration rates. Disproportionate impact: Black women seem to be bearing the brunt of this troubling trend. Family dynamics: The imprisonment of both parents disrupts family structures and negatively affects children who may become more vulnerable to criminal involvement themselves. We need to start addressing these systemic issues by focusing on prevention rather than punishment alone. By investing resources into education, mental health support, and community programs aimed at breaking cycles of incarceration ⚫️ , we can create real change! Let's come together to raise awareness about this issue and advocate for policy reforms that prioritize rehabilitation and support. Together, we can break the cycle of incarceration and create a brighter future for all! #Incarceration #GenderDisparity #FamilyImpact #CriminalJusticeReform

Reentering society after incarceration comes with many challenges, especially finding stable housing. But advocates like @TheFortuneSociety and Who Speaks for Me? are transforming the experience with housing models designed by formerly incarcerated people themselves. How do you think we can further support returning citizens? https://bit.ly/3zit0Oe Listen to the audio-article here: https://bit.ly/3zrfg3N #ReentrySupport #SecondChances #HousingJustice

Reentering society after incarceration comes with many challenges, especially finding stable housing. But advocates like @TheFortuneSociety and Who Speaks for Me? are transforming the experience with housing models designed by formerly incarcerated people themselves. How do you think we can further support returning citizens? https://bit.ly/3zit0Oe Listen to the audio-article here: https://bit.ly/3zrfg3N #ReentrySupport #SecondChances #HousingJustice

The Institute to End Mass Incarceration is dedicated to helping end our system of mass incarceration. At any moment, there are nearly 2 million people in our country locked away from their families and communities. And there are millions more tethered to the system through probation and parole, experiencing criminal system debt, and being surveilled. This is not a system that helps people thrive. It’s not a system that delivers justice. And it is not a system that keeps us safe. In fact, it does the opposite. At IEMI, we are tackling this system in a few different but interwoven ways. We believe lawyers can help build real, durable power in communities by working in deep collaboration with organizers & coalitions. That’s how we approach our own lawyering and advocacy. For example, you can read more about a campaign to stop the construction of a new federal prison that we helped launch with incredible community partners as part of our Carceral Infrastructure project: https://lnkd.in/e8tjN5FX We believe that we can create a ripple effect of impact if we teach new lawyers this approach to lawyering, creating a new generation of lawyers who are doing things differently - in true partnership with communities, following the leadership of those most impacted, and understanding both the power and the limitations of the law. You can hear from our students about their experiences in our in-house clinic at Harvard Law School: https://lnkd.in/enJMZ7yr And finally, we believe in the power of ideas. We have incredible fellows who are pursuing cutting-edge work. We host convenings and events. We travel around the country sharing ideas based on our own work. And we publish Inquest, a free online magazine where contributors from across fields, experiences and perspectives come together to share reflections, insights and bold ideas about the path to ending mass incarceration: www.inquest.org IEMI is housed at Harvard Law School. But, like so many nonprofit organizations, we must raise our own funds for programmatic activities and administrative overhead. This year, IEMI is participating in #GivingTuesday on Tuesday, December 3. You can help us make an even greater impact with a donation to support our work. Together, we can truly tackle the roots of our devastating system of mass incarceration - and end its harms. https://lnkd.in/eMtUiGee

As a Credible Messenger, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of guidance and support in the lives of incarcerated youth. 1. The Power of Words: Behind the bars of a juvenile justice center, every word carries weight. By speaking life and encouragement into these youths, we can ignite a spark of hope that fuels their journey towards rehabilitation and success. 2. Navigating the Path2Redemption: As a Credible Messenger, my role is akin to a GPS navigator, guiding these young individuals towards a path of positive change. Through mentorship, counseling, and skill-building programs, we equip them with the tools they need to navigate life beyond incarceration. 3. Breaking the Cycle: For many incarcerated youth, the cycle of incarceration seems inevitable. However, by offering support and alternative pathways, we can disrupt this cycle and empower them to envision a future free from the confines of prison walls. Together, we can be the catalysts for change, guiding these young individuals towards a brighter future filled with promise and opportunity. Join me in advocating for the empowerment of our youth, both behind bars and beyond. Learn more by visiting Path2Redemption.org #EmpoweringYouth #JuvenileJustice #CredibleMessenger

As we begin 2025, significant strides are being made both federally and within Washington State to support individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration. Washington State’s Commitment to Reentry 2030 In September 2024, Governor Jay Inslee signed Executive Order 24-03, formalizing Washington’s participation in the national initiative Reentry 2030. This bipartisan effort aims to reduce recidivism by removing barriers for individuals leaving prison, ensuring they have access to essential resources such as housing, transportation, identification, and employment opportunities. Washington became the sixth state to join this initiative, demonstrating a strong commitment to building safe and successful communities through effective reentry strategies. Federal Support through the Second Chance Act On the federal level, the Second Chance Act continues to play a pivotal role in improving reentry processes. Since its inception in 2008, and reauthorization in 2018, the Act has authorized federal grants for vital programs aimed at reducing recidivism and facilitating successful reintegration. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs funds and administers these grants, supporting communities in developing comprehensive strategies to address reentry challenges. The Journey Project’s Role At The Journey Project, we are dedicated to aligning with these initiatives by providing tailored support to all people including Two-Spirit, LGBTQIA+, and specifically transgender individuals reentering society. Our programs focus on offering safe housing, access to jobs, and comprehensive support services to ensure a successful transition. Why This Matters Effective reentry programs are crucial for reducing recidivism and enhancing public safety. By addressing the unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals, especially those from marginalized communities, we contribute to building stronger, more inclusive societies. Stay connected with us for more updates on reentry initiatives and learn how you can support second chances in our community. #Reentry2025 #SecondChances #thejourneyprojecttukwila #Reentry2030 #SupportAndReintegration #reentrymatters #supportandreintegration

At #CSGJC, we recognize the critical importance of maintaining family ties when a parent is incarcerated. Our publication offers invaluable insights on implementing child-friendly video visiting practices in correctional facilities. Key takeaways: ✅ Create welcoming virtual spaces for children ✅ Overcome technical challenges to ensure smooth connections ✅ Design engaging and age-appropriate visit experiences By prioritizing these family connections, we can support children's emotional well-being while encouraging successful reentry for incarcerated parents. Learn how facilities can make a positive impact: https://lnkd.in/eRrfsFzC

👨👧👦 Honoring Fathers 👨👧👦 let’s reflect on the challenges faced by fathers who have children with parents experiencing incarceration or who are currently incarcerated. In 2016, 47% of individuals currently experiencing incarceration in state facilities and 57% in federal facilities were parents of minor children, predominantly fathers. By 2020, half of all individuals experiencing incarceration in state facilities were parents of children under 18. Despite being separated, 67% of individuals in state facilities who have or have had a parent experiencing incarceration continue to parent. However, many struggle to maintain regular contact with their children. About 95% of individuals return to the community after experiencing incarceration annually. However, these fathers often encounter significant hurdles as they seek to resume their family roles and societal responsibilities. Let's recognize their resilience and advocate for support systems fostering successful reentry and reunification. Happy Father's Day to all fathers, including those on their journey toward reconnection and renewal! 🌟 #FathersDay #SupportFathers #ReentrySupport Data pulled from this article and backlinks within the article containing further data. https://buff.ly/4c1LQHC)

The iChange Justice Podcast is presented and support by the Restorative Community Coalition. The Restorative Community Coalition works to: ✔️Divert individuals from the traditional justice system: By offering alternative pathways to justice, such as mediation, restorative circles, and community service, the RCC helps individuals address the root causes of their actions and take responsibility for their choices. 🔄 ✔️Support re-entry and rehabilitation: The RCC provides crucial support to individuals re-entering society after incarceration, helping them find housing, employment, and access to essential services. 🏠 💼 ✔️Advocate for systemic change: Irene and the RCC tirelessly advocate for policy reforms that prioritize restorative justice principles and address the systemic inequities that contribute to mass incarceration. ⚖️ #RestorativeJustice #SocialJustice #CommunityReentry #SecondChances