1. Community support investment Los Angeles County
2. Justice reform advocates community aid investment.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Maria Casillas-Gonzalez, a first-generation immigrant, former healthcare worker, and single mother, is among the millions of formerly incarcerated individuals in the United States. Born in Jalisco, Mexico, her family later moved to the Central Valley, where she experienced the challenges of growing up in a farmworking community. Casillas-Gonzalez faced racism and discrimination as a brown, immigrant woman from a farmworker family.
Turning Tragedy into Action
In 1996, she tragically lost her best friend, Gilbert Braz, to gun violence. This event profoundly impacted her, leading to feelings of anger, fear, and resentment for many years. Determined to create a better future for her grandchildren, Casillas-Gonzalez founded Pride in Truth, a non-profit organization focused on reintegrating youth and formerly incarcerated individuals into society. The organization provides reentry services, leadership pathways, and advocates for alternatives to incarceration.
Advocating for Change
Speaking on the impact of incarceration on families, Casillas-Gonzalez emphasised that the entire family is affected by one member’s incarceration. Financial hardships, family separation, and the absence of parents have long-lasting effects on children. She joined approximately 60 community leaders, youth, parents, and non-profit members at a rally outside the L.A. County Board of Supervisors meeting to demand “Care Not Cages.”
A Call for Investment in Communities
The Re-Imagine LA coalition, Youth Justice Coalition, and TransLatin@ Coalition are urging L.A. County leaders to reduce funding for law enforcement and redirect resources to underserved communities. They criticise the proposed budget for its heavy allocation to law enforcement, highlighting the need for investments in community services and support.
Challenges in the Justice System
The budget proposes significant funding for law enforcement and justice institutions, drawing criticism from advocacy groups. The Los Angeles County Probation Department recently placed 66 officers on leave for misconduct, including excessive force and sexual abuse allegations. These incidents highlight systemic issues within the justice system that need addressing.
Seeking Justice and Reform
The community’s efforts to reform the justice system culminated in the passage of Measure J, aimed at prioritising community investments over incarceration. Despite initial legal challenges, the measure was upheld as constitutional, signalling a step towards reimagining justice in L.A. The fight continues for proper implementation and adequate funding to support community needs.
Conclusion
As the debate over budget allocations continues, community advocates like Maria Casillas-Gonzalez and the Re-Imagine LA coalition remain committed to advocating for a fair and equitable distribution of resources. Their goal is to create a system that prioritises care and support for all residents, particularly those from immigrant, Black, Indigenous, and low-income communities.
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