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Dear John,
The Sentencing Project’s reputation, mission, and values rely upon our honest, facts-based representation of how race and bias influence justice system responses. In the United States, there is exorbitant racial and ethnic disparity throughout the criminal legal system that has created unjust and harmful consequences for Black people and other communities of color.
For nearly 40 years The Sentencing Project has sought to build a more fair, equitable, and effective justice system. We envision a system that pursues community safety with evidence-based, proportional approaches that advance justice and dismantle mass incarceration and the bias that upholds it.
I believe this commitment to justice must also be reflected in how The Sentencing Project shows up for our staff and external partners, particularly those who are incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and come from communities historically marginalized in this country.
One year ago, The Sentencing Project launched its most intensive evaluation and realignment of organizational policies, practices, and norms to better incorporate principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The work is complicated, uncomfortable, and ongoing. It is also rewarding, ensuring that values such as racial and gender justice are reflected not just in our research and advocacy, but also in our office culture and internal processes.
It is not lost on me that The Sentencing Project is entering the most critical stage of our work to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at a time when the federal government and many state and local officials are vilifying people and institutions who have sought to uplift these principles. I believe that leaning into DEI is necessary for The Sentencing Project to effectively achieve its mission and live out its values as an organization.
DEI will always be a critical part of our work to create a more equitable and just society. I am a white leader of a diverse and forward-thinking staff, and it is my responsibility to leverage my privilege against an increasingly global attack upon the most vulnerable.
As Executive Director of The Sentencing Project, it is my duty to align with, support, and center the most marginalized voices to live and represent their authentic, beautiful selves.
I hope you will do the same where you are because truth and justice demand it.
Headshot of Kara Gotsch [[link removed]] Kara Gotsch
Executive Director
As a nonprofit organization, The Sentencing Project relies on the generosity of our community to power our work. The research, advocacy, and public education we contribute to the movement to end mass incarceration are only possible with your support. Every dollar makes a difference.
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