A Juneteenth Message

A Juneteenth Message from ICJIA Executive Director Delrice Adams

As Juneteenth approaches, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) reflects on the profound significance of this day—June 19, 1865—when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom. This pivotal moment, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, serves as a powerful reminder of enduring struggles for justice and the ongoing pursuit of true equity for Black Americans.

At ICJIA, our work is inextricably linked to these ideals. We are dedicated to improving the administration of criminal justice in Illinois, recognizing that historical inequities have disproportionately impacted Black communities. Juneteenth compels us to acknowledge the systemic biases embedded within our justice system and redouble our efforts to dismantle them.

Our data-driven research and grant-making initiatives focus on:

• Promoting Equity: We fund programs that address disparities and advocate for fair treatment at every stage of the criminal justice process.
• Preventing Violence: By investing in community-based violence prevention strategies, we aim to create safer neighborhoods and reduce the reliance on incarceration.
• Aiding Victims: We invest in programs that provide vital services, assistance, and resources to victims of crime, ensuring their voices are heard and their unique needs are met.
• Supporting Reentry: We champion initiatives that help individuals returning from incarceration successfully reintegrate, breaking cycles of recidivism and fostering stability.

Juneteenth is more than a commemoration; it is a call to action. It underscores the urgency of building a criminal justice system that is truly just, equitable, and accountable to all. ICJIA remains steadfast in its commitment to utilizing research, data, and collaboration to inform policy and practice, striving for a future where the promise of freedom and justice is realized for every individual in Illinois.

Delrice Adams

Executive Director

Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority