Safe Streets / Strong Communities

Safe Streets / Strong Communities works to transform the criminal justice system of New Orleans and reduce rates of incarceration and violence for African Americans through grassroots organizing and community empowerment, outreach, leadership development, coalition building, and policy advocacy. The organization campaigns for reform and monitoring of the criminal justice system and redistribution of public resources away from policing and incarceration and toward constructive resources such as recreation and education. Through regular meetings and events, Safe Streets / Strong Communities gives community members a voice to speak up against injustice. Additionally, the community is empowered with trainings on legal rights and how to handle confrontations with police, and street-level interventions avert violence through the organization's Ceasefire campaign.

Safe Streets/Strong Communities is a community-based organization that campaigns for a new criminal justice system in New Orleans, one that creates safe streets and strong communities for everyone, regardless of race or economic status.

Safe Streets / Strong Communities was instrumental in the creation of the Independent Police Monitor in New Orleans in August 2009. This oversight agency provides an easy way for community members to file a complaint against the New Orleans Police Department and objectively reviews each case. Safe Streets / Strong Communities continues to advocate for a fair and equitable justice system and provide resources to help the New Orleans community live safe and healthy lives.