Advocacy
The Lone Star Justice Alliance advances systemic change by tackling barriers to justice and equity through statewide policy initiatives and community-driven local collaborations. Our Advocacy Department aims to create meaningful reform in Texas’ justice system, fostering safety, equity, and opportunity. By integrating statewide and local efforts, LSJA strengthens its impact, addressing systemic challenges while remaining grounded in community realities.
At the statewide level, our policy initiatives target structural inequities and aim to reimagine justice through evidence-based reforms. Locally, LSJA leads collaborative projects like the Dallas Youth Safety Collaborative and the Central Texas Opportunity Youth Collaborative, which address community-specific needs. This dual approach—statewide policy reform coupled with grassroots action—ensures comprehensive, scalable, and sustainable change.
Our work transforms justice systems by advocating for rehabilitative, prevention-focused solutions that reduce reliance on punitive measures. Together, these efforts drive safer communities, empower youth, and dismantle inequities, creating pathways for all Texans to thrive.
Youth & Emerging Adult Voice
“No decisions about us without us.”
– 2019/2020 Transformative Justice Participant
Solutions to problems are most effective when those directly impacted have a say in shaping them. At LSJA, we believe young people—especially those who have experienced the harms of the criminal justice system—deserve a seat at the table. Through meaningful conversation, advocacy, and active engagement, LSJA provides young people the tools and platform to speak up for themselves and their peers. This ensures that justice reform is more fair, compassionate, and grounded in real-world experiences.
Statewide Policy Initiatives
LSJA’s Statewide Policy Initiatives champion innovative reforms that address inequities in Texas’ justice system. We prioritize policies that reduce incarceration rates, expand access to mental health and rehabilitative services, and ensure a fair, equitable system for all. Grounded in rigorous research and community input, this initiative leverages state-level advocacy to reimagine justice for individuals and communities. By building coalitions and influencing legislation, LSJA shapes policies that promote opportunity and equity for generations to come.
Reimagining Justice Coalition and Youth Safety Collaborative (Dallas)
In Dallas, LSJA leads the Reimagining Justice Coalition and the Youth Safety Collaborative (YSC). These efforts reimagine safety as a holistic, community-driven endeavor, addressing the root causes of harm rather than relying solely on punitive systems. Guided by youth voices and data-informed strategies, the coalition tackles challenges like systemic disinvestment, racial inequity, and community violence. Through innovative partnerships, LSJA empowers Dallas to build a safer, more equitable future for its youth and families.
Central Texas Opportunity Youth Collaborative (Austin)
The Central Texas Opportunity Youth Collaborative (CTOYC), spearheaded by LSJA, addresses the needs of youth disconnected from education and employment across six counties. This initiative unites over 30 organizations to dismantle systemic barriers and provide holistic, youth-centered solutions. From improving access to living-wage jobs to advocating for educational equity, CTOYC is reshaping Central Texas into a region where all young people can achieve their full potential.