Feb. 23, 2017. Boston, MA.
Youth activists from across the state rallied at the Old South Church in Boston’s Copley Square Thursday, demanding state and city leaders increase funding for jobs for young people and reform the juvenile justice system.
The group of predominantly teenage-activists was organized by the Youth Job Coalition, a collection of community and youth organizations from around the state.
The crowd marched from the Old South Church to Boston City Hall and then to the State House.
The Youth Job Coalition is asking Gov. Charlie Baker for $13.4 million to fund 5,000 year-round youth jobs. The group is also asking for the criminal records of youth offenders to be expunged once they turn 18 years old.
© 2017 Marilyn Humphries
In February, hundreds of youth activists from across the state convened in Boston to demand increased funding for jobs for Massachusetts’ young people, and to demand reform of the juvenile justice system. The action coincided with Governor Baker’s announcement of a bill which proposes modifications the Massachusetts criminal justice system.
Led by the Youth Jobs Coalition, teen activists rallied at the Boston’s historic Old South Church before marching to Boston City Hall, and on to the Massachusetts State House. The Dorchester Bay Youth Force team is a member of the coalition.
Check out pictures of the rally and media coverage below. Follow the movement on Twitter at @wehaveafuture.
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Media Coverage
Worcester Telegram – Gov. Baker files bill to reduce prison recidivism
WWLP Channel 22 – Baker proposes changes to the Massachusetts court and prison systems
Boston Herald – Protesters target justice system as Baker files bill to reduce recidivism
Boston Globe – Mass. officials unveil plan to prevent people from returning to jail
WBUR – Officials Unveil Report Proposing Extensive Reforms For Mass. Criminal Justice System
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