Justice Advocacy Group
"Justice, Justice shall you pursue." - Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Justice requires that all people are treated fairly, impartially and equally in all aspects of their lives. Advocating for justice raise public awareness and advances the knowledge and understanding of individual and community rights.
Our Focus
Our Justice Advocacy Group encourages and promotes:​
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Innovation and collaboration among legal and law enforcement professionals and the communities they serve to advance equal justice for all.
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Alternatives to juvenile incarceration that focus on support and rehabilitation rather than punishment. Options include mentoring, tutoring, work readiness, mental health and family support services.
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A proactive relationship among public schools, local law enforcement and School Resource Officers that creates a positive and safe learning environment for all students and staff
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Elimination of racial and income disparities in use of school suspension and expulsion. Students of color and students from lower income families are suspended or expelled significantly more frequently than other students.
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Parental and student rights in school disciplinary policies and practices
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Elimination of racial disparities in public school academic achievement. Students of color consistently rank lower in academic performance as documented by the Illinois State Board of Education in its annual Illinois Report Card.
Recent Events
Raising Public Awareness and Promoting Collaboration
On September 12, 2023, the Group brought together representatives of community groups and organizations to share information about juvenile policies and practices in Madison County and to explore ways to divert youth from the juvenile justice system. Guest included Madison County Circuit Court judges and the Alton police chief. They called for more comprehensive and coordinated services for juveniles and their families, particularly in mental health.
How to Participate in Justice Advocacy
The Clayton and Virginia Williams Foundation offers grants to support innovative and collaborative advocacy projects. For more information or to apply, go to Grants
To join the Justice Advocacy Group, complete the volunteer form or contact a Justice Group chair. Volunteer Here.