Our Campaigns
Stop Deaths and Harm
The Stop Deaths in the Jail group is an outgrowth of a successful ICJJ demonstration outside the Alameda County Board of Supervisors.
Over 150 people attended the vigil. Faith leaders read the names of the 68 people who had died in Santa Rita Jail.
We joined with FASMI (Families Advocating for the Seriously Mentally Ill) to create headstones for every person who had died.
Religious leaders read the names of all who have died in Santa Rita Jail since 2014. Rabbi Dev Noily spoke, representing Kehilla Community Synagogue, with Rev. Laurie Manning, Skyline Community Church, UCC (left).
Photo by Steve Thomasberger
Reverend Michael Wallace, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, speaking at the Rally to Stop Deaths in the Jail. The photo on the altar is of Norma Nelson and her brother Donald Nelson, who had a serious mental illness and was murdered while in his cell at Santa Rita Jail. Photo by Steve Thomasberger
Alternatives to Incarceration
The Alternatives to Incarceration Working Group seeks to reduce the jail population by researching and advocating for diversion programs, pretrial services, and other pathways out of the jail.
One focus of our work is to support the diversion recommendations of the Care First Community Coalition.
This year we have advocated for housing and homelessness solutions as a way to keep people out of jail.
We meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 1:00. To learn more or to attend one of our meetings, please contact us!
The banner of one of our allies, FASMI (Families Advocating for the Seriously Mentally Ill).
Photo by Steve Thomasberger
Care First, Jails Last!
ICJJ is a member organization of the Care First Community Coalition (CFCC), which advocates for community-based wellness, and promotes alternatives to jail for people with mental illness and substance use disorders.
We advocate for funds being diverted from the jail to community treatment and housing.
Care First Community Coalition Demonstration at the Board of Supervisors.
Care First Community Coalition demonstration in front of Santa Rita Jail.
Photo by Steve Thomasberger
Media Development Campaign
The media group works to advance ICJJ goals by promoting the publication of accurate news, analysis, and opinion.
We connect with journalists and provide them with important news items and accurate source information.