Mobilizing for Safe Communities - Hearing Friday June 9, 2017

JDI staff headed to the State House for today's hearing on the Safe Communities Act.  Debra Robbin, JDI's Executive Director, will present oral testimony as part of a panel with executive directors from allied organizations. She said, "The current climate--stirred by Executive orders, an increase in ICE activity and anticipated local law enforcement collaboration with ICE—is already having a chilling effect on sexual and domestic violence survivors. JDI member programs tell us that survivors they are working with are truly afraid to contact law enforcement because of what they are hearing and seeing happen to others around them.  Without access to safety and supports, individuals and families experience greater harm and trauma resulting in a decline in health and well-being. For the public health and safety of this commonwealth, we need to enact the provisions of the Safe Communities act and direct resources that provide real support and services toward improving the safety and dignity of all members of our Commonwealth.." 

To read our full analysis of this issue and why we support this proposal, read our testimony:

• Oral Testimony on Safe Communities Act June 9 2017