The House La Juvenile Justice meeting held on March 21, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform and community engagement. The session began with expressions of gratitude towards the J.R.A. Commission for their efforts in facilitating change within the community. Participants emphasized the importance of collective action and the need for increased voter participation in upcoming elections, highlighting that low turnout could impact significant issues on the ballot.

A key speaker underscored the necessity of educating the community about the implications of voting, particularly regarding juvenile justice matters. They shared personal anecdotes about how negative experiences can alter lives and stressed the importance of positive interventions. The speaker called on attendees to mobilize their networks to ensure everyone understands the importance of voting and participates in the electoral process.

Following this, a young advocate, Rio Valdez, took the floor to share their perspective on the challenges faced by youth in New Orleans, particularly those affected by trauma and the juvenile justice system. Valdez highlighted the lack of supportive outlets for young people in the community and criticized punitive measures that fail to address the root causes of their struggles.

The meeting concluded with an open invitation for further public comments, reinforcing the commitment to giving a voice to young individuals impacted by these issues. Overall, the discussions underscored a collective desire for reform and the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of juvenile justice in Louisiana.