As I conducted my research last year surrounding student disciplinary disparities and its contributions to the school to prision pipieline, there was something that became very evident. This issue was most apparent in the United States, particularly as it relates to how it affects youth from systemically marginalized communities. Understanding this context, I directed my search for my LiA Project toward organizations based in the U.S., so that I could ultimately support organizations that were aligned with the original goal behind my research, encouraging reform to ensure greater success for youth, preventing interaction with the carceral system.
I was lucky to have had the Georgetown Center for Youth Justice (CYJ) agree to allow me to conduct my LiA with them. While they have various transformative initiatives, I will specifically be able to support their School-Justice Partnerships and Diversion Pathways Certificate Program. I am eager to see how I can help this initiative while also intaking as much as possible from the greater organization.