To really look at ourselves, ask tough questions, resist the phrase “But that’s the way we’ve always done it,” and move toward a system that is healing and supportive and not just punishment oriented. That may involve justice reinvestment.

Real commitment, across sectors, to changing the system. The courage to not be hemmed in by inertia or retreat to “that’s the way things are done.” And both the plan and resources to facilitate the above.

I would like to see the discussion about mental healthcare and access to said healthcare become more entrenched in the legal process.

There are so many policies and procedures that are barely rational let alone rooted in any evidence or value that are just perpetuated and cause harm. These need to be eliminated and resources allocated to actually ensure equitable, restorative processes that encourage dignity and bringing folks back into the community in better shape not worse.

Is it too large to think about the policies and systems in our schools and communities that contribute to “criminal” behavior.

Making sure that our programs and supports aren’t tied to “system involvement”

Is this the system we would create if we were starting over? If not, then let’s reimagine OUR system.

Significantly reduced disparity in the number of Black and other minority people going to jail or prison, that more people are introduced to productive alternatives to incarceration, that we intervene at much earlier years in the lives of young people to give opportunities to be successful.

I don’t expect perfection in our criminal legal system, but if we can improve it, make it closer to perfect, and do it in a way that can be replicated elsewhere, I would consider that a success – even more so if it leaves a clear map to further improvements.

Criminal Justice Reform that aligns with community values and is supported with data, and is outcome focused.

The development of evidence-based strategies to eliminate racial inequities in the criminal legal system.

Success would be ensuring that we hear from families and youth, giving them a voice and then taking that information and putting it to into action – something tangible based on what we’ve learned from them.