As Louisiana’s policy director for the Southern Poverty Law Center, I work to ensure our state’s policies bring fairness and justice for all, especially the most vulnerable people. But I write this not just as an advocate for civil rights, but as a father. When I think of not only my children, but all children — their innocence, their dreams, their potential impact on this world — I am compelled to speak out and ask Louisianans to vote “no” on Act 3 in March.
This proposed amendment to Louisiana’s constitution, passed by the Legislature as SB 2, would allow legislators to lift limitations on the types of crimes for which children under the age of 17 can be sentenced as if they are adults. It would allow a minor as young as 14 to be charged as an adult for “any crime” as long as lawmakers pass new laws to do so.
That shift undermines youth justice, ignoring decades of research that shows children are different from adults in their capacity for judgment and rehabilitation. It will widen racial disparities in our criminal legal system, where data shows Black youth are treated more harshly than their white peers.
Children prosecuted as adults face harsher penalties, longer sentences and the consequences a criminal record carries — including difficulties in finding employment and housing as well as restrictions on serving in the military or receiving financial aid for college — all before they turn 18. Studies show children housed in adult prisons are more likely to reoffend compared to those who remain within the youth legal system, which prioritizes rehabilitation and education. Moreover, they endure significant harm in adult facilities, including exposure to sexual and physical violence, isolation and suicide risk.
As a father, I’ve seen the impact one mistake can have on a child as they navigate adolescence. My wife and I do our best to guide our kids through various challenges. But while some politicians focus on the consequences of poor choices, we should embrace the incredible potential for growth, change and redemption children possess. I shudder to think what would happen if my children’s future was determined by a single youthful lapse in judgment.
We cannot let fear and retribution dictate policy. We must invest in programs that address the root causes of youth crime: poverty, trauma and lack of education. Together, we can build a Louisiana that honors every child’s potential. Let us champion policies that reflect the best of our values: justice, compassion and the belief in second chances.
For our children’s sake — yours, mine and those we may never meet — I urge Louisiana’s citizens to say “no” to Act 3 on March 29.
Terry C. Landry Jr. is the SPLC’s Louisiana policy director.
Illustration at top: A proposed amendment to Louisiana’s constitution would allow legislators to lift limitations on the types of crimes for which children under the age of 17 can be sentenced as if they are adults. (Credit: David Cooper)