News  Chief Justices to Host Listening Session About Justice System at Roxbury Community College

WHAT:         
On Thursday, February 27, the Massachusetts judiciary, including Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants and Appeals Court Chief Justice Mark V. Green, will host a listening session at Roxbury Community College to hear from the public about ways that the justice system could be improved and the experiences of diverse communities when they go to Massachusetts courts. The listening session is open to the public and press.

The listening session was organized in recognition of the 400-year anniversary of when the first documented African people were enslaved in the United States in 1619.

The listening session will include judges from across the Commonwealth, attorneys, and community organizations. Superior Court Judge Angel Kelley, and John Laing, Chief Experience and Diversity Officer for the Trial Court, will moderate. Members of the audience will have an opportunity to share experiences, provide comments, and make suggestions.

The listening session will invite participants to share their thoughts on the following questions:

• What is a fair and just criminal justice system?
• When a crime is committed, what is “justice for all”?
• How can the courts ensure everyone is treated with fairness, respect and dignity?
• What do judges need to understand about communities of color and the impact of the court process on those communities?

“It is through this type of engagement and open forum between the public and the Massachusetts judiciary that we hope further conveys our commitment to justice for all, particularly for a community that has been treated unjustly through the course of our nation’s history,” said Superior Court Judge Angel Kelley. “Through this type of work, together we can build a stronger and healthier dialogue with communities about the administration of justice. The Massachusetts courts strive daily to ensure that the experiences of all who pass through the courthouse doors are treated fairly with respect and dignity, and that all community members are valued.”

WHEN:         
Thursday, February 27, 2020
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

WHERE:  
Roxbury Community College
Building 1 Auditorium
1234 Columbus Ave.
Roxbury, MA 02120