This briefing will feature people directly impacted by both youth violence and the extreme sentencing of children. They will share what life was like coming of age during the “superpredator” era and their experiences of being incarcerated with adults. Across the country, Republicans and Democrats have come together to help change how America holds children accountable and keep our communities safe while holding true to our moral values ingrained in mercy, hope, and forgiveness. Children who were once sentenced to die in prison have re-entered society, some after decades. Now adults, these men and women will share why Congress should support the current bipartisan efforts to pass Sara’s Law and the Unfair Sentencing of Minors Act (H.R. 2858) being led by Congressmembers Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Karen Bass (D-CA), and Tony Cardenas (D-CA), which would create judicial sentencing review for children after they’ve been incarcerated for 20 years. These provisions have also been incorporated into the First Step Implementation Act in the U.S. Senate by Senators Durbin and Grassley.
Moderator:
Michael Mendoza
Director of Advocacy, Anti-Recidivism Coalition
Panelists:
Donnell Drinks (PA)
Laura Nicks (AR)
Ralph Brazel, Jr. (Fed/FL)
Linda White (TX)
James Carpenter (DC)
If you plan to attend this briefing, please RSVP here.
Please note: This is an in-person briefing. Unfortunately, we cannot offer a virtual attendance option.
