PRESS RELEASE: SURVIVORS OF YOUTH VIOLENCE SHARE PERSPECTIVES IN NEW REPORT FROM CFSY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 12, 2026
Media Contact: Adam Kemerer | [email protected]
June 12, 2026 – Today, Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth (CFSY) is proud to release ‘Not a Monolith: Perspectives from Survivors of Youth Violence.’ Created by CFSY with pro bono assistance from Baker McKenzie, this report highlights the experiences and perspectives of CFSY community members impacted by youth violence, including those who have survived it and those who have lost loved ones.
We are honored to know and to partner with the people featured in this report, who are members of CFSY’s National Family Network (NFN) and Incarcerated Children’s Advocacy Network (ICAN). Their varied life experiences demonstrate that there is no “right” way to be a survivor, and that no single experience can represent all people who experienced harm.
“All too often, media featuring people who have lost loved ones to violence disproportionately highlights individuals who support punitive policies and retribution,” said Sharletta Evans, member of CFSY’s National Family Network and Executive Director of the Colorado Crime Survivors Network. “As a result, many people never encounter survivors like me who speak out in favor of mercy, redemption, and second chances for people convicted in cases involving violence, even as many of us share this belief.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with the incredible individuals featured in Not a Monolith: Perspectives from Survivors of Youth Violence,” said Crystal Carpenter, Chief Operating Officer of the CFSY. “While survivors have endured deeply painful and life-altering tragedies, their identities are shaped by their strength, resilience, and healing — not just by their traumas. We hope you read the experiences in this report with respect and care. We also extend our sincere appreciation to our partners at Baker McKenzie, without whom this report would not be possible.”
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The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth is a nonprofit that leads efforts to ban life-without-parole and other extreme sentences for children, and supports those incarcerated as children who are released after serving long sentences to lead and thrive.
For more information, or if you would like to arrange an interview, please contact Adam Kemerer at [email protected]
