Episode 15: Jason Smith on 'Raise the Age' and Redefining Juvenile Justice in Michigan
Episode Summary
In this episode of "What I Know Now: Juvenile Justice," hosts Bilal and Cole delve deep into the world of juvenile justice with their esteemed guest, Jason Smith, Executive Director of the Michigan Center for Youth Justice. Through compelling insights, we explore the critical intersections of personal transformation and systemic reform.
Key Highlights:
Youth Empowerment: Bilal stresses the importance of allowing young people to make mistakes and learn, emphasizing the need for supportive community reintegration, especially for those returning from the adult justice system.
Impactful Research: Discover the findings of the "Youth Behind Bars" study which reveals that 95% of minors in the adult system are there solely because they were 17. This statistic fuels advocacy efforts to prevent youth from entering adult courts.
Reformative Advocacy: Learn about the Michigan Center for Youth Justice's robust efforts to influence policy changes, educate the public, and drive legislative reform to support at-risk youth.
Educational Initiatives: Host Cole Williams shares classroom experiences using MCYJ’s publications to equip detained youths with knowledge about systemic issues and reforms.
Diversion Programs: Bilal discusses the effectiveness of robust youth diversion strategies such as therapy, substance abuse treatment, family engagement, and community-based programs. These measures are key to reducing reliance on the justice system.
Role of Representation: Both hosts stress the importance of visible, positive role models, emphasizing the need for young people to see success as an achievable goal. Bilal shares his own transformative story and ongoing mentorship with "at-risk" youth.
Raise the Age Campaign: Understand the significance of the national movement to increase juvenile court jurisdiction from 17 to 18, a key part of Michigan's legislative reforms aimed at juvenile justice.
Empowering Youth Voices: Hear about the statewide fellowship designed to empower young people involved with the justice system to become advocates and gain transferable skills. The curriculum, created with MCYJ staff, covers juvenile justice, policy advocacy, and media engagement.
Family Engagement: Explore the importance of respectful, effective engagement with families in the juvenile justice system, contrasting with approaches in the adult system.
Financial Burdens and Reforms: Gain insights into the successful advocacy for eliminating juvenile court fines and fees, lifting financial burdens from families, and driving equitable reform across the justice system.
Breaking Down Barriers: Join us in raw conversations that aim to break down barriers and foster change in perceptions and policies related to juvenile justice, inspired by personal stories and expert insights.
