October is observed as Youth Justice month. Since 2008, youth justice advocates around the country have come together each October for YJAM to organize events and online activities to raise awareness and inspire action on behalf of young people impacted by our criminal justice system.   It is time for real action. The youth criminal legal system is far from just.  Despite lowering crime rates and a global pandemic putting everyone’s health at risk, youth remain over policed, over incarcerated, and over criminalized, pushing predominately Black and Brown children into a system that causes irreparable harm.  We can do better-- for youth, families, communities, and public safety.  This year, we are focused on Acting to End Racism: Pursuing Equity through Policy.

In alignment with MS Votes' principles, we value youth, equity and are strong supporters of fully funded education. We sit down to talk to Monica Atkins -- an advocate for social justice. Monica does much of her activism through a political and artistic lens.  Atkins has organized social, cultural events and actions including Art, Poetry, and Justice Slam, Freedom Summer March, and March on Mississippi Workers March with artists and activists, such as Common and Danny Glover. Monica has worked for several labor organizations including United Auto Workers, American Federation of Teachers, and Communication Workers of America. Monica is a Chicago native and graduate of Jackson State University where she completed a Bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis in Journalism. A poet, activist, and member of Cooperation Jackson in Jackson, MS, Monica’s passion for the arts has led her to organizing workers and communities through cultural organizing and base-building for the past 10+ years.