Through our research, data analysis, and advocacy, Vera Louisiana is uniquely positioned to benefit communities statewide and those who interact with the justice system the most - low-income and Black communities. We have done this work since 2006 when the New Orleans City Council first invited Vera Institute of Justice to work in New Orleans.

In partnership with leaders from all parts of the community over the past year, Vera Louisiana:

- Passed data transparency legislation for jails and prisons across Louisiana to help electeds and the public see the impact of criminal justice policies;

- Advocated for $38M of American Rescue Plan Act and general city budget funds to be invested in social services and programs that prevent violence in New Orleans;

- Presented findings of our survey of the New Orleans community that helped government officials understand how community members wanted them to use tax dollars;

- Supported the development of programs that safely reduce the size of jails by diverting people from the criminal legal system;

We are excited to work in coalition with people from across the state to build the healthy, safe, and just Louisiana that we all deserve.