Friday, March 29, 2024

Former Juvenile Probationers Tell How Probation Changed Their Lives ‘In Their Own Words’ | VIDEO

In Their Own WordsLos Angeles, CA – Juvenile justice reform is one of the hottest topics in America today, and no piece of the puzzle is less understood than the work of the professional probation officers who supervise and rehabilitate kids who have lost their way.

β€œIn Their Own Words,” an original documentary short, features former probation clients who reflect upon how their probation officers helped to change their lives. The landmark film premiered virtually on July 13, 2021, and it included a panel discussion with former probation clients and the officers who have committed their lives to helping them (scroll down to watch the film).

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Shai Brown (screenshot)
Shai Brown (screenshot)

β€œI am blessed beyond measure to have had Mr. Shabazz, who was more than a probation officer. He was more than a therapist. He was more than a life coach. He was more than a friend. He is the person who should have been my dad,” said Shai Brown, former juvenile probationer at Dorothy Kirby Center, L.A. County Probation Department.

Ms. Brown’s sentiments are consistent among formerly detained juveniles, who directly experienced and understand the difference probation officers and their support teams make in their lives. Those who have been through the system know that probation officers act as guardians of the community, counselors, and rehabilitators.

β€œWe wear a lot of hats around here. Monday I might be a coach. Tuesday I might be a counselor. Tuesday I might be a teacher,” said Mel Bailey, Supervising Deputy Probation Officer and member of SEIU Local 721.

Mel Bailey (screenshot)
Mel Bailey (screenshot)

The premiere of β€œIn Their Own Words” is being sponsored by the Coalition of Probation Unions, which includes the Deputy Probation Officers; Union, AFSCME Local 685; the Supervising Deputy Probation Officers, which is affiliated with SEIU Local 721; and the Professional Managers Association, AFSCME Local 1967.

Together, these professional organizations are pulling back the veil from one the least understood yet most critical aspects of the restorative justice system to portray the true image of probation officers.

The film itself:

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