Our society is in need of reformation and healing. BAM is incredibly proud that one of our clients is a key part of initiating necessary change.

We offer our congratulations to our client Queens Defenders on launching a pioneering justice initiative in the Far Rockaway community. The program was unveiled at an engaging press conference on May 28th with community representatives including the District Attorney’s Office, government officials including members of the New York City Council, New York State Senate and Assembly, and key community leaders.

The initiative is praised for its pro-active approach to restorative and rehabilitative remedies to local crime. The plan will strengthen relationships between the residents, local police, and the borough’s criminal justice system. Directly from the conference, “The Rockaway Community Justice Center…is going to offer community-led legal hearings to address low-level misdemeanor cases, housing court mediation, juvenile crimes, as well as other social programming. Here, the residents of the Rockaways will have access to fair, equitable, and restorative justice in their own community by their own community peers.”

In addition to legal counsel and the community justice center, Queens Defenders has also setup an outreach center that serves both youth and adults in the community through school tutoring, innovative youth justice court, a young adult leaders mentoring program, and provide housing and immigration assistance. During COVID-19, Queens Defenders has provided direct emergency food and supplies every week to community members who are in need.

To get involved, make a donation or learn more about other community offerings, visit the Queens Defenders website.

We welcome you to view the press conference in its entirety below: