Daryl Fox: Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to the August 29, 2024, installment of "Today in Juvenile Justice: Administrator Update." We're glad you're able to join us today. All audio lines are muted, as this is a listen-only briefing. For reference, this recording will be posted tomorrow to the OJJDP website. At this time, it's my pleasure to introduce Liz Ryan, OJJDP Administrator, for today's update.
Liz Ryan: Hello, my name is Liz Ryan. I am the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, or OJJDP. As many of you know, we have been celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act all year! We have been connecting with our stakeholders, meeting with partners, and working with youth and families impacted by the juvenile justice system to advance the tenets of the Act.
On September 7, 1974, the JJDPA was signed into law to create a more just and equitable juvenile justice system. This action marked a pivotal shift in how states and territories approached juvenile justice. Over the years, the JJDPA has undergone several amendments to address emerging issues and promote effective juvenile justice practices. Despite these important advancements, there remains a critical need for federal legislation to help sustain current protections for youth and to advance additional reforms. This is not just a matter of policy, but a moral obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of our youth.
The theme for this celebration is Looking Back, Moving Forward: Celebrating 50 Years of the JJDPA, because the JJDPA still matters. As part of the celebration, OJJDP launched the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act Outreach and Education Subgrants Program. We awarded a $600,000 grant to the Coalition for Juvenile Justice, who partnered with the National Youth Justice Network to offer mini-grants to youth justice organizations, impacted youth and families, and local leaders.
These awards are designed to increase public education and awareness about the JJDPA, juvenile delinquency prevention, and Youth Justice Action Month in October. I am thrilled to announce that grants have been awarded to 77 communities in 42 states and territories, including D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Tribal communities that will host a variety of events, including community resource and job fairs, JJDPA educational campaigns, art shows, and mental health town halls.
Here are a few exciting examples of what's ahead: The West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition will host a community art show for youth impacted by the justice system to help foster dialogue, inspire action, and advocate for a more equitable and just society for all youth. The Metropolitan Congregations United in Missouri will coordinate outreach efforts to the parents of youth held in detention centers. And the Juniata County, Prevention Board in Pennsylvania will host a block party to educate the community about the JJDPA and its focus on rehabilitation over punishment. Young people are creating the artwork for the event! Community events are powerful tools for promoting positive change and inspiring civic participation and reforms.
Each one of these activities promises to be informative and uplifting! The Coalition for Juvenile Justice and the National Youth Justice Network have been holding virtual training and technical assistance calls and informational webinars with the subgrantees to help them develop and implement a successful event. If you're thinking about hosting an event in your community and need some inspiration, check out the awardee proposals on the youthjusticeactionmonth.org website. They have some great ideas that might spark your creativity!
Next week, we are ramping up the celebration leading up to the September 7 anniversary, and we'd be thrilled to have you join us! I encourage you to participate in community events, share the excitement on social media, and discover more about the JJDPA.
For more information and resources, please visit our 50th anniversary website at ojjdp.ojp.gov.
Let's make this an unforgettable milestone together! Thank you.
