Stories matter.
Restore Justice recognizes the power of individual experiences in shaping opinions and driving change. That’s why we are dedicated to sharing the stories of people who have been impacted by the unjust laws in Illinois that we work to dismantle. We believe sharing these stories can build understanding, empathy, and support for our work and create a world in which everyone is treated with fairness and dignity.
REFLECTIONS
Nelson Morris Reads a Letter to His Younger Self
“This year, I learned that telling my story is a powerful tool; it changed votes and helped us abolish juvenile life without parole. But, there is more work to be done, and I need your help.”
STORIES OF IMPACT
The people here tonight, including myself, who received extreme sentences as young people are living proof that young people are redeemable.
Joseph L. Moore, Jr.
Future Leaders Apprenticeship Program Graduate — Impacted Excellence Gala 2022
STORIES OF IMPACT
Being at Restore Justice now, I am starting to feel powerful, like I can really help people who are still in prison and people coming home.
NaJei Webster
Future Leaders Apprenticeship Program Graduate — Impacted Excellence Gala 2022
STORIES OF IMPACT
When I walked out of prison, I left behind many people who deserve freedom. These people are teachers and activists, mentors and leaders. They are artists, and they are fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, siblings, and friends.
Nelson Morris
Future Leaders Apprenticeship Program Graduate
STORIES OF IMPACT
The policy work I do for Restore Justice has given me purpose and the opportunity to be a voice for the people I left behind in prison. I am driven to advocate for those still serving extreme sentences.
James Swansey
Policy Manager, Restore Justice
REFLECTIONS
Maurice Hughes Reads a Letter to His Younger Self
Stories: Convicted Through Accountability and Felony Murder
Storytelling Project
More Than A Conviction
In 2022, Restore Justice began a multi-year project to tell the stories of people who received life without parole sentences in Illinois as children. The project shares the insights and lived experiences of formerly and currently incarcerated people and their loved ones. The project also highlights the journeys of transformation and success of people who were formerly incarcerated. We hope that these stories help policymakers and the public understand the impacts of lengthy incarceration and of the Illinois legal system.