The JustUS Coordinating Council (JCC) Senate Briefing, held on April 18, 2024, was a pivotal event focused on criminal justice reform and equity. The briefing, hosted on Capitol Hill, brought together leaders, experts, and advocates to address systemic challenges faced by justice-impacted individuals and communities across the United States. Led by prominent figures such as DeAnna Hoskins, President and CEO of JustLeadershipUSA and the founder of the JCC, and featuring various JCC member organizations and individuals, the event emphasized the urgent need to amplify the voices of those directly impacted by the criminal legal system, bridging the gap between communities and policymakers to drive tangible solutions.
The agenda featured insightful discussions on constitutional rights, social supports, workforce resources, and healthcare access. Panel discussions moderated by JCC founding members Saad Soliman and Sue Mason delved into key issues such as housing, health equity, economic mobility, and the impact of outdated policies on the rights of justice-involved individuals. With remarks from distinguished guests including U.S. Senator Ed Markey and Renee Williams, Executive Director of the National Center for Victims of Crime, the briefing concluded with a strong call to action for collaboration, advocacy, and policy changes aimed at creating a more equitable and just society for all.