By: Anjuli Kronheim Katz & Leili Davari
The decision for Bend the Arc leaders in California was unanimous: Money bail reform is the criminal justice issue we are bringing our collective energy and organizing to now. As Trump advances his destructive national agenda, we're pursuing real justice right here at home with leaders in Southern California, the Bay Area, South Bay, San Luis Obispo and more.
Why money bail reform? In America, only 1 in 10 people can pay their bail - leading to thousands of innocent (mostly poor) people in jail, who risk losing their jobs, custody of their children - even their lives.1
Sandra Bland, found dead in her cell in Texas, and Kalief Browder, who committed suicide in New York, are just two heartbreaking examples of what happens when you can't afford your bail.