Liberal values of freedom means nothing when
a child is imprisoned.
Equality
Liberty
Rights
Justice
Freedom
OUR VISIONThe vision is that no child should be in prison. Every child has the right to freedom, education, a home, security, and a family.
ProcessEnsuring Effective Use of Resources for Maximum Positive Impact on Children in Legal Processes
The foundation has a process for reviewing and approving new cases before they are implemented. By following a structured review process to select cases to work with legally, the foundation can ensure that its resources are used effectively and that its efforts have the greatest possible positive impact on children and young people involved in legal processes.
DATA EZAJCS 2021Cases handled by juvenile courts 2021
The Long-Term Impact of Juvenile Court: Challenges to Normal Life
Placing a child in juvenile court can have profound and lasting consequences on their future. When a child enters the juvenile justice system, often due to delinquent behavior or offenses, it disrupts their normal developmental path. Instead of receiving support and guidance to correct their actions, they may face stigmatization and a reduced sense of belonging in society. Once a child is sentenced or judged in juvenile court, their opportunities for a normal life can be severely impacted. They may struggle to reintegrate into
their community, face barriers to education and employment, and encounter ongoing legal and social challenges. The experience can lead to a cycle of further involvement in the justice system, perpetuating a negative trajectory into adulthood.
Society's Duty: Addressing Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Integration
Society has a crucial responsibility to care for these children and mitigate the factors that contribute to their involvement in delinquency. This includes providing early intervention programs, access to mental health services, and educational support.
Rehabilitation should be prioritized over punitive measures to ensure that these young individuals have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and become productive members of society. Child welfare issues often intersect with juvenile justice, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches that address underlying issues such as poverty, family instability, and trauma. By investing in prevention and support systems, society can reduce the likelihood of children entering the juvenile justice system and improve outcomes for those who do. Every child deserves a chance to grow up in a supportive environment that nurtures their potential and encourages positive development.
The Injustice of Blaming Children for Their Circumstances: A Critical Look at Juvenile Sentencing
In 2021, 278,587 children were sentenced in the United States—a stark reminder of how we unjustly blame children for circumstances beyond their control. Many of these young individuals come from environments marked by poverty, neglect, and trauma. Instead of offering the support they need, we criminalize them, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.
Blaming children for their difficult upbringings allows society to avoid addressing the root causes of their behavior. We must shift from a punitive approach to one focused on compassion and rehabilitation. Children should not be punished for the hardships they face; instead, we must provide the resources and support necessary to help them succeed.
Protecting Children: Why They Shouldn't Be Held in Adult Prisons
Children are vulnerable and impressionable, needing nurturing environments for healthy development. Placing them in adult prisons risks exposing them to abuse, violence, and long-term psychological harm. Their developmental needs are best met in juvenile facilities where rehabilitation, not punishment, is prioritized. This approach ensures their safety and promotes their chances for successful reintegration into society.
