We the People Summit: Community-Criminal Justice Conversation (WTP) is part of U-turn Youth Consulting’s Courageous Conversation Series. The past year has been difficult on so many levels and for so many people, but this past Summer elevated the cry against social and systemic injustices towards Black and Brown communities. Although 2020 highlighted and unmasked the disparities within the health system, financial system, educational system, but none more glaring than that of the criminal justice system. For years Black and Brown communities have long fought for a more fair and equitable system. However, often the community only sees law enforcement officers. This Courageous Conversation aims to educate and raise awareness about the totality of the criminal justice system and its overall impact on communities, and to begin to bridge the gap between community and the multi-facets of the criminal justice system, by exposing the racial and social inequities that causes community mistrust. ​

 

However, out of every chaotic situation comes opportunity for change. U-turn has always focused on the Backstory of youth and families. But in 2021 it is impossible to focus on youth backstories, without focusing on the backstories of the systems that are responsible to serve them and their families, in this case, the criminal justice system. As such, this summit is timely and necessary. Our speakers and panelists are a diverse group of experts in their respective fields who will bring vast knowledge and effective skill sets. This event will engage the audience, accelerate much needed dialogue about reform, and most importantly provide tools and resources that can be utilized to facilitate impactful and lasting change.