top of page

Introducing: 

The Collaborative Advocacy Network

We are excited to share this groundbreaking collaboration with Unapologetically HERS. 

Project Overview

Restorative Community Solutions (RCS) and Unapologetically HERS (UAHERS) are proud to introduce the Collaborative Advocacy Network (CAN) for people incarcerated in women's prisons in California. CAN aims to address the critical need for resentencing advocacy for women, particularly women of color, trans, and gender non-conforming individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. This innovative co-learning and collaborative advocacy model integrates client-centered legal advocacy with life coaching, leveraging community partnerships and pro bono legal advocates and researchers to establish a sustainable model independent of political and systemic fluctuations.

IMG_6368.heic

Leaders and Changemakers Aminah Elster and Earl Simms

About California's Racial Justice Act

The California Racial Justice Act (CRJA) of 2020 prohibits racial discrimination in California’s criminal justice system, allowing individuals to challenge their convictions and sentences if racial bias influenced their case.

​

Key Provisions:

  • Prohibition of Racial Discrimination: Bars convictions or sentences based on race, ethnicity, or national origin.

  • Evidence of Bias: Allows various evidence types, including statistical disparities, to support claims.

  • Scope of Application: Applies to all stages of the criminal process and is retroactive.

CRJA addresses systemic racism, promoting justice and equity, especially for marginalized individuals, including women, transgender, and gender non-conforming persons in California’s prisons.

 

Find out more about the CJRA from KQED: 

How the Racial Justice Act Could Shake Up California's Criminal Court System

California's Groundbreaking Racial Justice Act Cuts Its Teeth in Contra Costa

 

The Need for CAN

The full potential of the CRJA is hindered by funding constraints, lack of awareness, and inadequate community engagement. These challenges disproportionately affect women, who are predominantly nonviolent offenders and often primary caregivers, eligible for resentencing. The 'Pathways to Freedom' toolkit developed by UAHERS highlights these disparities and emphasizes the need for enhanced legal support within women’s correctional facilities.

​

Addressing Disparities

Racial disparities in incarceration persist, with Black women and transgender individuals facing higher incarceration rates and inequitable access to services. CAN aims to address these systemic disparities through comprehensive legal advocacy and support.

​

​

Project Leadership

The Collaborative Advocacy Network (CAN) is spearheaded by a dedicated team of researchers, advocates and lawyers responsible for designing, fundraising, and partially implementing this innovative initiative. Our leadership team includes:

Program Components

Collaborative Legal Advocacy and Life Coaching

  • Full-Time Staff: Hiring an attorney, project coordinator, and life coach.

  • Changemaker Fellows: Educating incarcerated women about RJA and resentencing options.

  • Pro Bono Attorney Network: Establishing a network to support eligible resentencing cases.

  • Life Coaching Model: Centered on transformative relationships and coordinated support.

​

Implementation Plan

Phased rollout focuses on legal strategy, attorney network development, fellowship establishment, toolkit/training creation, and staff hiring, followed by direct connections with institutions and strategic collaborations.

​

Proposed Outcomes

  • Increased Awareness and Support: Enhanced understanding of legal options and resources.

  • Educational Workshops: Conducting workshops to educate on RJA and resentencing options.

  • Pro Bono Attorney Network: Establishing a diverse network for legal support.

  • Toolkit and Training: Creating resources for pro bono attorneys and Fellows.

  • Case Referrals and Support: Evaluating and supporting a specific number of cases.

​

Budget

The annual cost for this project is: $575,550.

This includes personnel costs of $504,110 and operating costs of $71,440.

Get Involved Today!!

Volunteer to be a part of the Network!

We need attorneys, law students and paralegals with a passion for racial justice to join our network. Sign up to get updates and to find out about trainings and pro bono opportunities!

Make a donation

We need your help to bring this project to fruition. Every dollar counts. 

Frequency

One time

Monthly

Amount

$

0/100

Comment (optional)

bottom of page