Educate the Legislature Day 2007

On March 9, 2007, hundreds of Connecticut citizens gathered at the Capitol to stress to the legislature the urgency of raising the age of jurisdiction to 18. The day included a press conference, rally and informational hearing featuring national and local experts.

Around three-hundred fifty high school students, college students, parents, families, child and family advocates, and state agency representatives filled the atrium of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford to show their support for raising the age.   The sheer number of people wearing orange shirts and cheering during the press conference was difficult to ignore. In the afternoon, state and national experts gave testimony to legislators from the Judiciary, Appropriations, and Select Committee on Children. 

All who came out for the day felt encouraged and inspired to continue their efforts. Mary Willis of the Stamford Youth Service Bureau told CTJJA, “You guys did a fantastic job organizing what was the best day at the capitol I have ever experienced. Congratulations and keep up the fight!” That is what the Alliance intends to do, until legislation passes.  

Advocates fill the walkways of the Legislative Office Building Enlarge in a new window	Afternoon press conference Enlarge in a new window	Abby Anderson of the CT Juvenile Justice Alliance speaks at press conference Enlarge in a new window
Activists cheer in background of press conference Enlarge in a new window	State Representative Toni Walker and State Senator Toni Harp at press conference Enlarge in a new window