Our Vision
Women and Criminal Justice envisions a criminal justice system that values family relationships, has facilities and policies that meet the particular needs of women, and chooses non-incarceration whenever possible. We envision a shift from a retributive to a restorative model of justice which promotes healing, reduces recidivism, and creates safe communities.
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Our Mission
Women and Criminal Justice Network advocates for the establishment of gender-responsive programs to help women rebuild their lives and relationships. We invite community members to cross the border into the world of prisons, providing opportunities for relationship building, reflection, and action. We create energy for systemic change by mobilizing a network encompassing women in prison, women formerly in prison, college students and faculty, community members/leaders, and professionals within the criminal justice system.

We Believe
• Prisons in this country were designed for violent men. The policies and programs of the criminal justice systems are particularly inappropriate for non-violent offenders; 70% of women in prison are in this category.

• Individual and social transformation occurs when people on the “inside” and people on the “outside” have an opportunity to meet and share a common experience, reflect together on it and discern the next step together.

• Partnering and networking is essential for those who seek to transform the criminal justice system into one that is more just, humane, and responsive to the needs of women and their families.

• Women in California who commit a crime should be provided with an array of options to reconcile their crime, restore justice to those affected by their actions, and receive the health and social services they need to address the factors that have negatively influenced their behavior.