DURHAM, N.C. (Sept. 23, 2025) — Southern Coalition for Social Justice is committed to advancing justice and building safe, thriving communities. We reject the outdated view that criminal justice is a zero-sum game that pits safety versus justice against one another. Moreover, history — and countless studies, data, and lived experiences — tells us reactive policymaking driven by politics and fear in response to a specific incident, no matter how awful, leads to poor legislation that serves neither justice nor safety.
These are just some of the reasons why we are deeply concerned about any legislation that offers only more jail, prison, and executions as solutions, rather than resources and attention to address the root causes and systemic problems. We believe in evidence-based solutions, not tired “tough on crime” reactions that misuse public resources and, most importantly, don’t make us safer.
Communities are safest when people have access to timely mental health care, affordable housing, educational opportunities, and good jobs. For too long, however, public safety policy has been driven by fear, racism, and misinformation instead of evidence. The result is an overly punitive system that fails to protect all communities fairly. Increasing the number of people held in jails and prisons, speeding up state-sponsored executions, and pushing death-by-firing-squad as a means for carrying out those executions is not a recipe for public safety.
There is an urgent need for investment in community-based supports that meet people’s needs before harm occurs. Mental health treatment, restorative practices, investment in and support of reentry efforts, housing stability, and opportunities for young people are the pathways to safer communities.
Our state faces a choice: invest even more in systems of punishment that have failed to deliver safety and justice or focus our resources on real solutions addressing the root causes of harm.
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Southern Coalition for Social Justice, founded in 2007, partners with communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities in the South to defend and advance their political, social, and economic rights through the combination of legal advocacy, research, organizing, and communications. Learn more at southerncoalition.org and follow our work on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
