Advocacy Day "A conviction shouldn't equal a life sentence"
What is Advocacy? Advocacy is an ongoing process or a series of organized actions. It is applied to change, modify, implement, or reinforce practices, policies, laws, programs, services, social norm, etc. This is done by influencing or pressuring people with power in various sectors, systems, and/ or communities. Advocacy is for the betterment of the those affected by the issues. LIVE FREE Illinois hosted Springfield Advocacy Day on April 10, 2024, bringing together faith leaders, community organizers, and over 160 advocates** at the Illinois State Capitol to champion healing justice and criminal justice reform. The event focused on securing sustainable funding for the Community Healing Resource Center Network and advancing clean slate initiatives for individuals impacted by the justice system. Participants engaged in meetings with legislators, sharing personal stories that emphasized the importance of second chances for formerly incarcerated individuals. The event highlighted the need for policy changes that promote equity, rehabilitation, and community investment. LIVE FREE Illinois collaborated with other organizations focused to “Restore Justice in Illinois.” NIRCO (Northern Illinois Recovery Community Organization) was pleased to host Mr. Wendell Robinson& Team to discuss the “Impact of Incarceration on Families and ways to support.
NIRCO 4 pillars are recovery support, education, advocacy, oriented systems of care. Our advocacy efforts, emphasizing the importance of second chances and community healing. NIRCO is dedicated to reducing stigma, supporting recovery, and fostering empowerment for individuals impacted by the justice system. Restore Justice Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to criminal justice reform in Illinois. Their shared mission is to advocate for fairness, humanity, and compassion within the legal system, particularly for individuals affected by extreme sentencing laws. Restore Justice works to eliminate mandatory minimums, improve prison conditions, and create pathways for early release and successful reentry. Their work aligns with the broader mission of criminal justice reform, Criminal Legal Reform, Advocacy, Returning Citizens Network, and Loved Ones Self-Advocacy Trainings. RJF work ensure that those seeking support, and a fresh start have access to resources, mentorship, and peer support. Learn More & Get Involved: Explore Springfield Advocacy Day*on LIVE FREE Illinois’ official event page. | YouTube recap of the event here. Discover more about the Restore Justice Foundation here. Learn about NIRCO’s wellness, recovery, and advocacy efforts here.
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www.nircolakecounty.org
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