The National Campaign to Amplify The Voices of The Wrongfully Convicted And Their Loved Ones

Our Goal: True Freedom is Not Surviving, but Thriving

What is true freedom? Someone’s release from wrongful incarceration does not always mean freedom from the devastating tentacles of wrongful convictions. Our goal is crystal clear: be pioneer builders of an ecosystem of holistic support for wrongfully convicted individuals and their loved ones that reflects their actual experiences and needs. We don't just aim for survival; we aim for thriving. 

Our Why: Claiming Our Own Narrative - Nothing About Us Without Us:

We believe it's time to claim our narrative, to tell our story, our way. LAJ’s National Survey of the Wrongfully Convicted and their Loved Ones is the first of its scale and depth, aiming to redefine freedom as thriving, not merely surviving. Building an ecosystem of support without the full story perpetuates the tragedy faced by many. We use our collective experiences to shape policies and programs based on truth. 

The Power of Data: Knowledge as a Catalyst

Our ecosystem building journey begins with knowledge. Impacted People are usually the last ones asked “what do you need”, or “what is your vision for a pathway forward”? However, those closest to the problem are usually the best inventors of solutions. Guided by those who have a direct understanding through lived experience, LAJ is focused on collecting comprehensive information and data on the experiences and needs of wrongfully convicted individuals and their loved ones. 

Research Approach: The Science Experiment Subject becomes the Scientist 

Our approach is unique. Guided by our principle of “nothing about us without us,”  our research uses impact-led participatory research methods from beginning to end, with impacted individuals (i.e., wrongfully convicted individuals and their loved ones) as embedded research team members with decision making authority within our study. Through a research study , we will reach our community nationwide to examine the individual, relational, communal, and societal factors that existed prior to their wrongful incarceration and might have contributed to their wrongful convictions. We will look at the systems that helped or harmed them, and the long-term implications of wrongful convictions for individuals and communities. Our study seeks grounding in the full human experience of being wrongfully convicted and those who love them.

This research will serve as the cornerstone of our program development and advocacy initiatives, enabling us to respond to the true needs of our  unique population in their journey to thrive, not only survive, post-release.

Programs That Heal: Healing the Past, Embracing the Present, Forging the Future 

We are committed to advocating for and developing informed programs that cater to the holistic and ongoing needs of wrongfully convicted individuals and their loved ones as they navigate their journey towards true freedom. It's not about dwelling on the traumatic past; it's about focusing on their present, their future, and the barriers that stand in their way to holistic well-being.

Size and Science Matter: Evidence-Driven Change

Our target is to reach 2,000+ individuals. We understand that to create a transformative impact, we need a substantial dataset. Only with significant data can we demonstrate the potential for change through action. 

Our study is grounded in scientific principles, allowing us to base policy changes on empirical findings, not just thoughts and feelings. We believe in making decisions that are informed and backed by evidence. Only through the power of our collective voices will the necessary transformation be visible and attainable. 

Impact: A Catalyst for Transformation 

The impact of this work is monumental for the entire innocence community. The results of this research will drive the development of informed advocacy and programs to support our community’s ongoing needs comprehensively, while also serving as a catalyst for policy change at both state and federal levels. 

Furthermore, our findings will not only propel our own mission forward but also advance the collective efforts of the innocence community as we work together to support true freedom for wrongfully convicted individuals nationwide.