In a new blog post, OJJDP Administrator Liz Ryan discusses OJJDP's commitment to pursue racial equity and fairness in the juvenile justice system as the Office commemorates Black History Month.
Ryan discusses OJJDP's efforts to eliminate racial disparities in the juvenile justice system through its funding priorities and technical assistance provided to states. The blog highlights OJJDP's Juvenile Justice System Reform and Reinvestment Initiative—reintroduced last year—to support state efforts to reduce reoffending by youth, improve youth outcomes, and end racial and ethnic disparities. Ryan also emphasizes the Office's support of community-based alternatives to youth incarceration.
The Administrator also focuses on the integral contributions Black Americans make to every aspect of American life and highlights the achievements of two Black youth who overcame barriers that youth of color encounter.
"I hope you'll join me and OJJDP in commemorating Black History Month—in celebrating our young people's achievements while recommitting ourselves to systems and services that help them fulfill their promise," Ryan writes.
RESOURCES:
- Read about OJJDP's priorities.
- Visit OJJDP's webpage on Racial/Ethnic Disparities.
- Follow OJJDP on Twitter and Facebook.