We need to reconstruct the criminal justice system.
This current system is not working.
We do not need a system that focuses on mass incarceration and makes the United States the country with the highest number of incarcerated individuals in the world.
We don’t need a system that specifically, and by design, oppresses the poor and people of color, but instead one that embodies restorative practices and diversion to social services; one that approaches violence, mental health and addiction as the public health issues they are.
And most importantly, we need a system that is created for the people, by the people and centers around true justice for all of humanity.
Every one has a right to feel safe.
Our goal is to ensure safe communities where everyone has an equitable quality of life.
We aim to reduce the destructive impact of current criminal justice policies on the lives of individuals, families, and communities by challenging the over-reliance on incarceration and extreme punishment, and ensuring a fair and accountable system of justice.
Ensuring the voices of the people are heard.
For 10 years, the APA has worked to strengthen neighborhoods around Pittsburgh and throughout the region.
By serving on the front lines of social justice in the Pittsburgh region, we have witnessed the deeply flawed system at work. Through education, regional partnerships, community outreach, and policy change, we believe we can create an environment where accountability becomes real.