OUR WORK

SALVATION AND SOCIAL JUSTICE POLICY PRIORITIES

In light of mounting federal assaults--- gutting essential violence interruption programs, declaring open season on Black communities by ceasing investigations into police departments accused of misconduct and abuse, slashing funding for critical health initiatives, and jeopardizing the livelihoods and wellness of countless families—it is imperative now more than ever to implement robust safeguards to defend and uplift Black communities in our state. Below are SandSJ’s top priorities to fortify the health, wellness, and prosperity of our communities.

Black Maternal Health Legislation

SandSJ strongly supports comprehensive Black maternal health legislation to address the racial disparities in maternal outcomes in New Jersey. We are advocating for two key legislative items:

The establishment of targeted workforce development programs for Black midwives
State investments supporting Black and women-led birthing justice resource initiatives that include but are not limited to birthing centers, doulas, perinatal care, lactation support, advocacy training, and more.

Second Look Legislation that Brings Incarcerated Elders Home

SandSJ endorses Second Look legislation (S2338/A4463) that allows incarcerated elders age 60 or older who have served at least 20 years of their sentence and have demonstrated that they pose no threat to public safety to petition the court for resentencing.

This policy is critical for ensuring justice and mitigating the impact of outdated sentencing practices that disproportionately impacts Black communities.

Community Based Violence Interruption (CBVI) Programs

SandSJ champions CBVI (Community-Based Violence Intervention) programs as effective measures to reduce violence within communities.

These initiatives focus on prevention, intervention, and healing through locally tailored approaches that engage community leaders and stakeholders. We are advocating for the continuance and expansion of funding for CBVI programs.

Long Term Cannabis Tax Revenue Fund for Housing and Entrepreneurship Equity

SandSJ is advocating for the use of New Jersey’s cannabis tax revenue, which brings in $33 million a year, to create a long-term investment fund that would be exclusively allocated to affordable homeownership and entrepreneurial development in historically marginalized communities, directly addressing New Jersey’s racial wealth gap.

The fund would grow to a 5% yearly return and distribute money every 10 years over a total period of 30 years adding up to $2.19 billion.

Community-led Land Banks and Community Land Trusts

SandSJ endorses community-led land banks and community land trusts as a tool to combat gentrification, prevent displacement, transition renters into homeowners, and build generational wealth in historically marginalized communities.

Use of Force Legislation and Police Accountability

SandSJ is advocating for the adoption of S2348/A4175, codifying the Attorney General’s Use of Force Directive, significantly strengthening the protections against police use of force for people in this state beyond any administration, and against what has become an increasingly hostile federal administration.