We galvanize clergy members and take action to end harsh policies and racial inequities in how the criminal justice system touches the lives of Memphians.
Criminal Justice Reform
Fact 1
In 2018, Tennessee had the twelfth highest incarceration rate in the most incarcerated nation in the world.
Fact 2
The impact of sending a young person to adult criminal court are irreversible. Youth sent to the adult system are almost 30% more likely to be rearrested than those prosecuted in juvenile court.
Fact 3
There are nearly 1,300 people serving life sentences in Tennessee. According to records from the Tennessee Department of Corrections, over half of those offenders were 25 years old or younger when they were charged. Of these people, 72% are Black. Only 17% of the state’s population is Black.
Fact 4
Despite incarcerating more people and spending over $1 billion annually on corrections in the state budget, Tennessee has the fourth highest violent crime rate in the nation and a high recidivism rate, with nearly half of individuals rearrested within three years of their release from custody.
Action For Justice
Our goal is to galvanize clergy members and take action to end harsh policies and racial inequities in how the criminal justice system touches the lives of Memphians. Our members have called for more community oversight and a change in police culture locally, and are committed to guiding local officials towards greater transparency and accountability when it comes to community policing. For more information or to stay updated on our progress, sign up for our weekly email newsblast.
”We continue to be open to taking part in the pursuit of meaningful police reform in Memphis, which people in the streets and throughout the city are clamoring for. But we expect substantive dialogue, genuine agreement, and concrete steps toward a major change in the way police interact with the residents of our city.
J. Lawrence TurnerBoard President
Join Us
The Black Clergy Collaborative of Memphis (BCCM) comprises members who work together to address systemic issues affecting Black communities in the United States. To become a member of the Black Clergy Collaborative, please fill out the form below. A member of our team will contact you within seven business days to discuss your committee interests and answer any questions you may have.