To the editor:

Every spring Justice Matters raises its collective voice in an effort to do justice. And while we don’t have the financial influence to impact the issues we address, we do have hundreds of passionate folks seeking justice in our region, as well as insights gained from hundreds of hours of research on critically important issues.

This year’s Action Assembly will look different, as we gather in vehicles, listening to the event via FM radio. We will recommend restorative policies consistent with teacher training. We will lift up criminal justice reforms in the midst of a national discussion on racial justice. And we will offer well-researched solutions to homelessness in an unprecedented time of federal investment.

In short, we will offer a vision for our community that leaves behind the status quo of pre-pandemic life, and embraces the hope that justice brings. A vision that says “No more!” to punitive practices in public schools, to public policies that magnify mass incarceration, and to simply managing the concern of homelessness, but instead embraces practices of restorative practices, and that champions ongoing efforts to functionally eliminate long-term homelessness through tried-and-true practices applied in communities across the country.

For months, the people of Justice Matters have been dreaming about justice. We’ve reflected on what we value, what we want, and what we seek as a community. We’ve imagined what tangible action might look like along these lines, and envisioned a more just community in the process. Now we invite you to dream with us.

Pastors Justin Jenkins and Deacon Godsey, co-presidents of Justice Matters