Press Release

For Media Inquiries:
Rabiah Burks, 202-822-6700
rburks@famm.org

FAMM Statement on Racism in America’s Justice System

WASHINGTON – FAMM released the following statement in response to the killing of George Floyd and the resulting protests against racism in America’s justice system:

As a leading criminal justice reform organization, FAMM recognizes that our advocacy must more explicitly address the disproportionate harm caused by systemic racism to black people and people of color. The killing of George Floyd has convinced us that we need to do more – much more. We take pride in our organization being composed of people from all walks of life. Our staff, board and membership are racially, regionally and politically diverse. We stand together against racism, its impact on black lives and the way it has led to the overrepresentation of black people in jails and prisons. Racism is pervasive in all areas of the justice system, including policing, sentencing and our prison systems. FAMM is committed to working with our staff, membership and partners to create positive change.

For nearly three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM’s focus on ending a one-size-fits-all punishment structure has led to reforms to sentencing and prison policies in six states and is paving the way to programs that support rehabilitation for the 94% of all prisoners who will return to our neighborhoods one day.

###

FAMM is a national nonpartisan advocacy organization that promotes fair and effective criminal justice policies that safeguard taxpayer dollars and keep our communities safe. Founded in 1991, FAMM is helping transform America’s criminal justice system by uniting the voices of impacted families and individuals and elevating the issues all across the country.