This article is part of the Religious Freedom Reframed series, which is exploring perspectives on religious freedom that have historically been left out of public discourse, as well as implications for individuals, institutions, and society overall. In this series, authors will use a public justice framework to explore narratives that are traditionally left out of the conversation on religious freedom. This series is designed to introduce fresh perspectives, feature new voices, and examine historical and present injustices in the application of religious freedom. The Center for Public Justice, a Christian faith-based organization with a strong commitment to religious freedom, has intentionally […]

This interview is part of Shared Justice’s Transformative Justice series running throughout January and February. The series explores one of the most urgent areas for reform within the juvenile justice system: juvenile probation. Focusing on promising practices in diversion and prevention, including Credible Messenger Mentoring, the series will highlight opportunities for government and civil society to create a juvenile justice system that is more equitable, effective, and restorative. To continue Transformative Justice, Yasmine interviewed Bishop Darren Ferguson, Pastor at Bethel Baptist Church and Reentry Coordinator in Orange, NJ. In this conversation, Yasmine and Bishop Ferguson discuss what makes someone a Credible […]

This interview is part of Shared Justice’s Transformative Justice series running throughout January and February. The series explores one of the most urgent areas for reform within the juvenile justice system: juvenile probation. Focusing on promising practices in diversion and prevention, including Credible Messenger Mentoring, the series will highlight opportunities for government and civil society to create a juvenile justice system that is more equitable, effective, and restorative. Katie Thompson: Can you share a little more about the journey which has led you to your current role and work at Community Connections for Youth? Why is your work something that you’re […]

Several years ago, I was on the campaign trail speaking with voters and community stakeholders, coordinating fundraisers, and interacting with public officials in an election that we knew would be an uphill battle. Our candidate was the incumbent; a long-time state senator who knew every street, business, and leader in the community. Still, it was a challenging campaign because the world was changing.  I vividly remember one experience that I still reflect on to this day. After a long day of “lit-dropping” (dropping campaign literature in people’s doors), a woman from church asked me, “How can I become meaningfully involved in […]

Congress has the opportunity to pass the End Network Distribution (END) of Child Exploitation Act this year to give law enforcement much needed time to respond to this horrific crime and identify children who are in situations of exploitation.