PRESS RELEASE Justice Department Elevates Perspectives of Young People at the 2024 National Conference on Youth Justice WASHINGTON, DC — The Department of Justice's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, along with the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, is hosting the 2024 National Conference on Youth Justice: Shaping the Next 50 Years today through Thursday at the Washington Hilton, in Washington, D.C. Marking half a century of progress and innovation in youth justice, this year's theme, "Shaping the Next 50 Years," reflects on the 50th anniversary of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act being signed into law in 1974. The Act established OJJDP and set national standards for how youth are to be treated within the juvenile justice system. "I am inspired by the profound impact of the JJDPA and how it has improved public safety and increased protections and opportunities for our nation's youth," said OJP Acting Assistant Attorney General Brent J. Cohen. "This conference brings to life the intent of the legislation, where together states, local jurisdictions, and federally recognized Tribes work in tandem with youth and their communities to create safer and more equitable opportunities for all children." The conference reflects the progress made in 50 years—from protecting youth from the dangers of adult jails, reducing racial and ethnic disparities to community-based interventions and focusing on mental health and healing-centered approaches. "We still have work to do and what better way to shape what's next than by partnering with youth," said OJJDP Administrator Liz Ryan. "This conference was informed by young people and provides a platform for young people to use their voice, share their perspectives and recommendations on how to address the challenges they face related to youth justice. By working together, youth, families, communities and youth justice stakeholders can improve youth justice policies to support education, mental health, community-based programs and alternatives to detention. At OJJDP, we believe in the possibilities of tomorrow and what we can accomplish together in the next 50 years of youth justice!" The three-day conference brings together justice-impacted youth to develop a collective Call to Action about priorities for transforming youth justice. OJJDP has created an inclusive platform for lived experts throughout the conference by granting them the opportunity to participate as plenary panelists and presenters, session facilitators, and more. The conference unites more than 2,400 people, representing youth advocates, justice professionals, community leaders, educators, and policymakers to discuss urgent issues affecting today's youth and work toward meaningful solutions. The event focuses on workshops and discussions on topics across the continuum of care from prevention through intervention, treatment and re-entry, such as trauma-informed care, restorative justice, mentorship programs, and education support, along with preventing recidivism – all while creating a space for honest dialogue and innovative ideas. The 2024 National Conference on Youth Justice marks a significant milestone in youth justice reform. It elevates the experience of youth, while inspiring youth leaders, and advocates to continue their work toward a justice system that uplifts and empowers tomorrow's leaders. |
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