OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - Mar. 27, 2024 - The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center, a nationally recognized non-partisan nonprofit, in partnership with the Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs, held Oklahoma’s largest and most diverse convening of juvenile justice stakeholders on Monday, March 25th and Tuesday, March 26th. This event marked a noteworthy step towards improving on the progress Oklahoma has made in juvenile justice over the last decade.
Oklahoma was selected by CSG as one of only three states in 2024 to participate in on-site listening sessions. These confidential listening sessions involved more than 120 total participants from across the state representing a variety of perspectives, including tribal nations, the judiciary, state and local agencies, attorneys, service providers, law enforcement, youth, and families.
Conversations focused on opportunities to improve the full continuum of care from prevention through re-entry for youth, their families, and the community. Special emphasis was placed on exploring the adoption and implementation of research-based policies, practices, and funding strategies. These meetings provided an opportunity to identify both strengths and barriers within Oklahoma’s juvenile justice system.
“Having CSG facilitate these listening sessions offers a valuable opportunity to elevate the perspectives of our stakeholders, illuminate opportunities for improvement, and leverage CSG’s experience as we craft a hope-centered and trauma-informed juvenile justice strategy moving forward,” said Jeffrey Cartmell, OJA Executive Director.
On Tuesday, a session was specifically offered to elected officials focused on effective strategies to enhance public safety and improve youth outcomes through legislative action. “The importance of adequately supporting a robust juvenile justice system has become increasingly evident as communities express growing concerns about young people grappling with mental health challenges, substance use, and other related problems,” said House Human Services Sub-appropriations Committee Chairman Mark Lawson (R-Sapulpa). “Oklahoma's participation in these listening sessions is a testament to the state's dedication to a collaborative approach to enhancing public safety and promoting positive outcomes for youth.”
Following the site visit, CSG will prepare a memo for state leaders, highlighting key takeaways from the visit. The memo will include priorities for reform heard across stakeholder groups and opportunities for system improvement. By leveraging insights gained during the listening sessions, Oklahoma will continue work towards an even more successful juvenile justice system.
“During our short time in Oklahoma we have witnessed a deep passion from all juvenile justice stakeholders to reach the best possible outcomes for youth, families, and communities,” said Nina Salomon, Deputy Division Director for Corrections and Re-entry at CSG Justice Center. “We look forward to supporting Oklahoma moving forward.”
For more information about the Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center and their work in improving justice systems, please visit their website at www.csgjusticecenter.org.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact OJA Chief of Staff Constanzia Nizza.
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About the Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center:
The CSG Justice Center is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that provides practical, nonpartisan advice and consensus-driven strategies to increase public safety and strengthen communities. By bringing together key stakeholders from the criminal justice system, the CSG Justice Center works to develop innovative solutions to pressing justice issues. Their research and data-driven approach has helped numerous states improve their justice systems and reduce recidivism rates.
About OJA:
The Office of Juvenile Affairs collaborates with youth, families, and community partners to create pathways for success through prevention and treatment for all Oklahoma youth.
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