Multifaith Initiative EMI

The Prison Policy Initiatives’ flagship report, “Mass Incarceration: The Whole Pie,” demonstrates that prisons and jails are continuing to lock up more people following a decade of consistent decline. While overall incarceration has grown by roughly 2%, the total confined population is still about 13% smaller than its pre-pandemic size. Not surprisingly, nine states account for 77% of prison growth, while 10 states reduced their population. Additionally, incarceration of young people increased 11% from 2021 to 2022…an alarming trend! Check out the report to learn more so you’re equipped to call your legislators… https://tinyurl.com/2wcvceyy

Join us in celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV. May his leadership and voice for compassion, inclusion and social justice inspire our quest for a more caring world.

There are no protocols dictating when officers can or should wear face masks during arrests, but during the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigration, more federal officers are choosing to cover their faces. The widespread use of technology to reveal officers’ personal information—such as names and home addresses—has prompted even plainclothes officers to wear masks, a practice that has become increasingly controversial as news footage from detention centers gains more exposure.

When addressing this topic, John Miller, CNN’s chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst, said, “It raises the question, if they are legitimate law enforcement agents carrying out a proper arrest under the law, why are they hiding their identities?” Additionally, the administration is demanding mask bands on college campuses, while allowing federal agents to wear them. We’ll keep an eye on the implications of this double standard.

We join the world in marking the passing of Pope Francis. May his vision of compassion and unwavering commitment to the rights of the poor, the marginalized and the incarcerated continue to inspire us all.

This Easter, we celebrate hope, renewal and the power of love to transform our world. Wishing all who observe a joyful and meaningful day.

Today, The Hill reported on Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) defending President Trump’s proposal to send U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes to prisons in El Salvador—facilities notorious for their harsh conditions and far beyond the reach of U.S. legal protections. In reference to Attorney General Pam Bondi, Trump stated that “we’re studying the laws right now.” Check out the article and continue monitoring this critical issue with us... https://tinyurl.com/2mhr294m

Due process refers to the fundamental principle of fairness in legal proceedings and the administration of justice, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and have their rights protected by the government. This is core to the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

Under the Trump administration, however, due process protections for immigrants have been drastically eroded. Individuals around the country are being singled out for exercising their free speech, stripped of their visas or green cards without proper procedures...or even notification! Some have even been snatched off the streets, forced into unmarked vans and transported to remote detention centers far from family and legal counsel. THIS IS NOT AMERICAN!

If you’re outraged, call or write your elected officials today and share this post on your own social media platforms.

As we remember the Exodus story, we honor the enduring hope for freedom, justice and liberation. Wishing all who celebrate a joyful and meaningful Passover.

While news is dying down about ICE raids, it’s still happening! It’s up to all of us to help those most vulnerable understand their rights. Please share this post on your social pages and send it directly to anyone who may be impacted.

According to the Prison Policy Initiative, more than 400,000 people are currently sitting in U.S. jails and prisons awaiting trial. At this moment, they are legally innocent. Sadly, most cannot afford cash bail, with the median bail bond for a felony costing more than $10,000. Compounding the inequity, the average man who cannot afford bail only earned $16,000 annually and the average woman earned $11,000. These numbers add up to egregious discrimination. Contact your elected officials about your concerns today!