As many of your are already aware, Lancaster Interchurch Peace Witness has focused this past year on criminal justice reform and racial inequality. Our organization co-sponsored an ecumenical learning series entitled In Chains We Trust.
The series was focused on addressing the problems created in our society by a punitive penal system, including the mass incarceration of men of color, and the need for restorative justice. Attendees were given an opportunity to engage in insightful and transformative discussion.
Within the past year, action has also been taking place in Washington, D.C. Senator Grassley (IA) and eleven bi-partisan co-sponsors introduced the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act of 2015, S 2123. In part, the proposed bill takes major steps towards improving the judicial system, reducing mandatory minimum sentences and lowering federal prison populations.
The Friends Committee on National Legislation now informs us “amidst the partisan divides, we have an opportunity to begin dismantling the oppression of mass incarceration”. If you would like to show your support for this bill, please consider emailing your Congressional representatives today!
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