Last week, the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center released its Justice for Girls Blueprint that details the policy and practice reforms needed to create a healing community system of care for girls in Florida. Alarming numbers of girls in Florida are experiencing sexual victimization, interpersonal violence, unaddressed mental health issues, homelessness, and involvement in the juvenile justice system.
The Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center asked girls to help them develop a statement about their fundamental right.
Girls have a fundamental right to:
• Fair and equitable treatment,
• Freedom from violence and exploitation,
• Be valued and respected by those who interact with them,
• Be able to trust the system,
• A system advocate.
Why should we care about the report? Black girls are struggling in Escambia County. While Black girls comprise 35% of their age group in our county, they are 72% of all girls arrested and 63% of those incarcerated, according to the report.
CEO Dr. Vicky Basra shares the report’s findings and recommended strategies.