A Kentucky state representative discusses why The Bail Project’s work has been a force for good in Louisville, and how Kentucky HB 313 threatens it.
Faith leaders in Kentucky stand against House Bill 313, which would greatly restrict charitable organizations like The Bail Project, which they assert helps poor people who cannot afford bail.
Greetings from Louisville, Kentucky. Last month, we marked one year since the launch of our Bail Project site in the Derby City and what a journey it has been!
To date, we have paid bail for over 900 Louisvillians, reuniting families, restoring the presumption of innocence, and helping our city fight mass incarceration. We’re now gearing up for our second year. We’ll be kicking things off by marching with the Presbyterian Church (USA) this week to call for bail reform.
A few weeks ago, I caught up with our very first client, Mr. Thomas Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs is a retiree and grandfather who spent several days in jail without his medications because he could not afford an $800 bail.
Here’s Mr. Gibbs a year later, celebrating with me our power “to move mountains” when we come together as a community to demand justice and true freedom.
One year later, I continue to be inspired by clients like Mr. Gibbs and the overwhelming community support we have received. From our amazing partners at the Louisville Metro Public Defenders to the Louisville chapter of Showing Up For Racial Justice (LSURJ) and the Presbyterian Church (USA), there’s a strong community behind this movement in Kentucky. Together, we are paving the way for real, long-lasting change.
Freedom should truly be free. This idea is nothing new, but here, in Louisville, we are revolutionizing how we get there, together.
Thank you for your support,
Shameka Parrish-Wright
Louisville Site Manager
