The Survivors’ Project
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Stories of Resilience Redemption and Hope
The Survivors’ Project fights to end the incarceration of children in Texas who are survivors of human trafficking and interpersonal violence, and to obtain clemency for those who have already been convicted of crimes tied to their own victimization.
Currently, the Texas criminal legal system incarcerates children whose crimes were a direct result of, or incident to, human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and other abuse. Rather than see these children as survivors of crime who need a trauma-informed response to their victimization, the system often punishes them not only for their own crimes but also for those of their abusers.
A survey of 130 youth survivors of human trafficking conducted by the National Survivor Network found that more than 40% had been arrested 9 times or more for actions performed under coercion by their adult abusers. Their resulting criminal records then make it difficult for them to get a job or to access safe and affordable housing, both of which are vital to achieving independence, stability, safety, and lowering recidivism.
Ron Jackson Project
LSJA runs an innovative pilot program to represent child survivors of sex trafficking who are currently detained in the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. LSJA assures that these survivors receive appropriate treatment, clear any pending cases that prevent them from release, and avoid any transfers to adult prison.
*Ron Jackson project is not currently accepting referals from the public.
Clemency Project
LSJA also works to clear the records of those already convicted. In early 2020, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, in coordination with the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles (BPP), established a clemency application for survivors of human trafficking or domestic violence, as a result of advocacy by LSJA.
Request Pro Bono Assistance
You can apply for assistance from the Survivors’ Project through our online application. Submitting an application does not guarantee pro bono assistance.
Volunteer to Represent Surviors
Looking to give some pro bono hours for a good cause? If you agree to take a pro bono case, you will be trained and receive free continuing legal education credit.
Receive Client/Family Support
LSJA provides support to families and formerly incarcerated youth. Reach out here to provide books, connect with others, and join our peer support groups.
In The News
Learn more about our efforts to support children and emerging adults in Texas.
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