OUR WORK.
Explore the comprehensive efforts of PleadThe8th as we strive to reform the juvenile justice system. This page highlights our multifaceted approach, which includes advocacy, education, and direct support to affected youths. Learn about our ongoing projects, impactful campaigns, and the tangible changes we are fostering in the community and beyond.
Advocacy for Youth Justice Initiative.
Our Youth Justice Initiative aims to reform the legal system by promoting fair sentencing and equitable laws for juveniles.
Key Activities:
- Policy Advocacy: Working with lawmakers to propose and support legislation that promotes fair sentencing and juvenile justice reform.
- Public Awareness: Educating the community through workshops, social media campaigns, and public events.
- Research and Reports: Conducting thorough research and data analysis on juvenile justice issues to inform policy and public opinion.
Highlights
Legislation
Successfully advocated for SB930/HB1041, the "Juvenile Review Bill", in the Florida 2024 Legislative Session, which aimed to rectify longstanding issues leading to the inequitable treatment of those incarcerated since childhood.
Community Outreach & awareness
Our outreach efforts include organizing awareness rallies at court hearings, conducting workshops, contacting numerous individuals incarcerated since childhood and their families, distributing educational materials, and engaging in various events to build awareness and support for juvenile justice reform.
MEDIA COVERAGE
Featured on News4Jax and 10TampaBay for our advocacy work. One of our co-founders was also featured in the Miami Herald.
RESEARCH REPORTS & DATA ANALYSIS
We are dedicated to shedding light on critical aspects of our advocacy:
- Court Cases that underline the urgent need for legislative reform
- Data Analysis revealing extensive disparities in the system.
Explore our findings to understand the depth of these issues and our proposed solutions.
Report: FLORIDA COURT CASES THAT UNDERLINE THE URGENT NEED FOR LEGISLATIVE REFORM
For over a decade, Florida courts have repeatedly urged the legislature to address the critical issues in §921.1402, highlighting an urgent need for clarity and reform to ensure justice and fairness for all youth.
Read our report compiling over 40 cases of judicial calls for legislative action to address numerous constitutional concerns for Florida's youth in §921.1402.
YOUTH TRANSITION & REENTRY.
The Transition and Reentry Support program is dedicated to assisting individuals who were incarcerated as children in successfully reintegrating into society.
Key Activities:
- Individual Support: Providing one-on-one mentorship and support to navigate life post-incarceration.
- Resource Provision: Offering essential items such as food, clothing, housing assistance, and linkage to resources.
Highlights
Success Stories
Assisted Philip and Terrence, both of whom have successfully begun their reintegration journey after decades of incarceration.
Community Impact
By advocating for systemic change and providing direct support to individuals, we are not only helping those directly affected but also creating safer and more equitable communities.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting our mission? Find out how you can get involved by volunteering, donating, or participating in events.
