Criminal Justice Reform Advocates Calling On Governor Hochul To Stand Up For Crime Survivors

Photos: YouTube Screenshots\Facebook

New York, NY (Monday, November 13th) – Today kicks off Common Justice’s Week of Action to call for immediate action on the Fair Access to Victim Compensation (FAVC) Act, which has awaited her signature since June. The legislation, (S214A-Myrie/A2105A-Meeks), would increase access to State-funded compensation for crime survivors by removing a requirement that crimes be reported to law enforcement. 

“Understanding the complicated history many communities of color have with law enforcement, forcing them to continually recount their pain to law enforcement serves as yet another source of trauma,” said Kira Shepherd, Vice President of Organizing and Policy at Common Justice. “With one stroke of her pen, Governor Hochul has the power to help victims and their families begin to rebuild their lives. It’s time for her to stand up and do the right thing.” 

The schedule for the week of action is as follows:

Monday: Digital action amplifying Common Justice’s social media calls for signage of the bill via Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (X)

Tuesday: Urging coalition partners and the public to email Governor Hochul to call for signage of FAVC bill

Wednesday: Twitter (X) rally from 11-11:20AM 

Thursday: Foley Square news conference with coalition partners and other supporters to call for signage of FAVC legislation (12:30PM)

Friday: Push to sign digital petition calling for Governor Hochul to sign FAVC legislation

All digital activities can be seen on Common Justice’s social media accounts (IG/Twitter: Common_Justice; Facebook: Common Justice).

About Common Justice

Common Justice develops and advances solutions to violence that transform the lives of those harmed and foster racial equity without relying on incarceration. In New York City, the organization operates one of the first alternative-to-incarceration and victim service program in the United States that focuses on violent felonies in the adult courts.

 Common Justice’s policy and organizing work seeks to build power in Black and brown communities that have been disproportionately impacted by violence. Our work uplifts and centers the needs of survivors of violence, as well as those who have been adversely impacted by violence, including interpersonal, community and state violence.

To learn more, visit commonjustice.org..