What is Youth Justice Day?

On April 6, 2016, young people from around Louisiana will gather on the steps of the Louisiana State Capitol to call for juvenile justice reform. We will ask the legislature to RAISE THE AGE at which a child can be prosecuted as an adult from 17 to 18.

Why Should We Raise the Age?

Louisiana is one of only nine states that charges all 17-year-olds as adults even for minor, nonviolent offenses. High school students can be sent to violent adult jails. They end up with an adult arrest record that can prevent them from getting an education and joining the workforce. This increases their chances of falling into a cycle of arrest, incarceration, and poverty. We believe young people who have made mistakes should still have a chance at success!

What’s In It for Young People?

• Education about the legislative process and a chance to apply civic lessons to the real world; increased awareness of the value of voting

• Civic Engagement by taking responsibility and educating legislators as to how best represent youth goals and desires

• Youth Empowerment that shows the community and policy makers the promise of informed and organized young Louisianans

• Professional Development of skills that can carry forward in future endeavors from college to job interviews

More Information

High school and college age students – as well as their teachers and advocates – are invited to attend. Transportation to and from Baton Rouge will be provided to students and chaperones from New Orleans. Students will be returned to their schools in time for their afternoon buses. Lunch will also be provided.

Please contact Meg Garvey at mgarvey@laccr.org or 504-658-6851 with any questions.