Dow ConstantineVerified account

King County is the only major jurisdiction to simultaneously reduce the rate of detention & racial disproportionality. But we must do more.

We're prepared for days-long Peacemaking Circles. We're ready to do the work. But it will take work.

Today, I am announcing a plan for two community-based reception centers that we will call “Safe Spaces.”

Based on a service model successfully used in Portland, Safe Spaces will offer services to youth in crisis, including short term housing.

They will be staffed 24/7, offer connections to housing, education, & training, & have kitchens, showers, & units for short overnight stays.

There are currently 3 felony cases engaged in Peacemaking. We need to bring this demanding but redemptive practice to scale.

This program is another step toward zero youth incarceration. But we must also answer the question: how do we keep every kid in school?

Important work must be done w/ educators & school districts; we know the wrong path starts w/ a skipped class or a suspension or expulsion.