'Let's advocate for a fair and just criminal justice system' 

A summit which sees Christians demand police and criminal justice reform is taking place in April

The 'Hope for Justice' Conference on 13 April is organised by the Racial Justice Advocacy Forum (RJAF). It is presented in collaboration with Premier Christian Radio, the National Church Leaders Forum (NCLF), and Bloomsbury Baptist Church, which is hosting the conference.   

The event aims 'to amplify the voices of Christians and provide a platform to help shape and influence the future of policing and criminal justice services in the UK,' organisers state.

The 'vexed issue of police and criminal justice reform' is set to be key battleground in 2024, with both a General Election and the London Mayoral Race looming.

'Following an all-time low in public confidence, Christians demand a police and criminal justice system that is equitable, just, and accountable to the public it serves,' the organisers continue. 

'This meeting is your opportunity to share your views and vision for policing in Britain, as we journey toward the third decade of the 21st century,' the organisers continue. 

'Your lived experience and insight will significantly contribute to the conference, making it a truly impactful and meaningful event.

'Post-event, we intend to pursue the issues with the Police and British Home Office, with a mandate established from the conference.'

Speakers include Sophie Linden (Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime); Leroy Logan (Founding member of the Black Police Association, Author); Mina Smallman (Racial Justice Campaigner); Bell Ribeiro-Addy (MP for Streatham); Revd Emmanul King (Spiritual Director of Prison Outreach Network); Andy George (President of the National Black Police Association in the UK) and Dr Eleasah Louis (Theologian).

Dionne Gravesande, Principal Advisor on Ecumenical Relations and Theology representing the NCLF writes, 'In pursuit of a future where justice knows no bias, instead accountability is the cornerstone of our legal system.

'Together, let's advocate for a fair and just criminal justice system that stands as a beacon of equality, ensuring that the scales of justice are balanced for all, and accountability resonates with the echoes of public trust.’ 

Bejoy Pal (Asension Trust CEO) says, ‘A hope for justice binds us all together to work towards a future in which justice flows like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream and the journey towards peace unites us. 

'As we look at our own responsibility, hold power to account and raise the voice of those silenced, let us feed into one mission that brings trust and healing to a broken world.'  

The Racial Justice Advocacy Forum (RJAF) is an ecumenical network of black and Asian Christians tackling the issues of racial justice in society and Church.

For more details and to book your free place, visit this Eventbrite link.