In order to build community power, the Chicago Justice Project believes that first we

must trust those in charge of our communities. We aim to make this happen by increasing our
knowledge of how the justice system operates by connecting data across agency and political
boundaries. Reforming the carceral system is a daunting initiative, so Chicago Justice Project
focuses specifically on increasing transparency as a method of building trust and accountability
in our communities.

Chicago Justice Project focuses on justice system policies and practices through
evidence-based analysis of current policies. Using a data-based critique of the carceral system,
CJP’s work creating innovative data systems stimulates change based on real evidence. CJP
plays a vital role in overseeing the accountability systems that are currently in place for
disciplining officers in the Chicago Police Department. In doing so, CJP also helps to regulate
the supposed reforms that have been put in place to hold CPD accountable. Relying on police
officers to hold themselves accountable has failed historically, so CJP works to ensure that the
current accountability measures (The Committee on Public Safety) are effective.

Arguably one of the most prevalent issues in America’s criminal justice system today is
the lack of transparency and withholding of information, specifically in police practices and
misconduct cases. Our approach to justice system transparency was created to challenge the
asymmetry in access to justice system data that exists between justice agencies and communities.
This disconnect allows data to be weaponized to thwart alternatives to incarceration or
restorative practices within the criminal justice system. CJP seeks to confront this by obtaining
information from local agencies, such as the Chicago Police Department and the Office of
Emergency Management & Communications in order to keep communities informed about the
actions of the criminal justice agencies working on their behalf.

Chicago Justice Project currently operates as a non-profit, so financial support is crucial

to the success of our organization. CJP seeks x amount of money from your foundation to
continue to challenge justice system policies and practices and fight for a more equitable
criminal justice system.