This impactful convening will coincide with Youth Justice Action Month (YJAM)—a national movement dedicated to raising awareness about the needs of young people impacted by the justice system and taking action in local communities nationwide. 

Each October, YJAM brings together advocates, policymakers, practitioners, and—most importantly—youth, to advance a vision that all children, youth, and families have opportunities to live safe, fulfilling lives in their communities. For years, CJJ has proudly played a leading role in organizing and participating in YJAM initiatives. From policy briefings and public education campaigns to storytelling projects led by directly impacted young people, we strive to ensure that youth voices are at the forefront.

In pursuit of CJJ’s mission to convene national, state, and local partners to educate on and advocate for youth-serving systems to be fair, effective, and rooted in community, we convene each October to plant seeds of change and cultivate growth opportunities for effective system improvement. This year’s conference will focus on activating practitioners and systems leaders to take concrete steps that support reducing racial and ethnic disparities in the youth legal system and uplifting young leaders, particularly those who have been historically marginalized. Our agenda will feature a community-led service project, dynamic learning workshops, and opportunities for national dialogue and innovation.