Prop 47: From second sentence to second chance
Ricky Hernandez made choices throughout his youth and early adulthood that landed him behind bars. After being released, Hernandez learned that his sentence did not end the moment he walked out through the prison gates. Then … Continue reading
For juvenile offenders, Supreme Court ruling opens door to parole
In 2012, The United States Supreme Court ruled that it was cruel and unusual punishment for juvenile offenders to receive automatic sentences of life without the possibility of parole. But … Continue reading
With Prop 47, relief from the stigma of a felony conviction
Last November, California voters approved Proposition 47, a measure that reduces some nonviolent felonies to misdemeanors. Since then, more than 500 people have been released from custody and over 1,000 people … Continue reading
The torment of isolation: Ending juvenile solitary confinement
California’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation agreed to drastically reduce the use of solitary confinement in state prisons. But as prison and human rights advocates celebrated the victory, the legislature … Continue reading
Letter to my brother in prison
We’Ced contributor Alyssa Castro addresses her older brother Ignacio, who’s currently incarcerated. She tells him about life in Merced, members of his family, and her hopes that they’ll reunite soon. … Continue reading
Forgive
A poem by M., a 17-year-old ward of the court in Los Angeles, relates the emotional pain wrought by drug addiction, neglect, and experiencing the loss of an estranged parent. “As we were driving … Continue reading
Obama’s commutation of drug offenders: youth journalists weigh in
President Obama recently commuted prison sentences for 46 more nonviolent drug offenders, and became the first sitting president ever to visit a federal penitentiary, El Reno prison in Oklahoma. In his statements, he pointed out … Continue reading
Unlocked: from probation to incarceration
Probation is considered an alternative to incarceration in juvenile and adult criminal justice, but for many youth entering the system for the first time, it’s an alternative in name only. Arrested youth, their families, … Continue reading
These people’s lives will improve thanks to Prop 47
A new state law that lowers certain non-violent felonies to misdemeanors can help change the lives of tens of thousands of Californians – if they apply in time. Two Long Beach … Continue reading
Caravan seeks to end mass detention
Immigration advocates, youth leaders, and community organizers caravanned from Oakland to Bakersfield, converging in a protest at Mesa Verde, a privately owned detention center. A recent campaign successfully pressured officials for the release … Continue reading
