There is growing consensus in neurobiology, developmental psychology, and sociology that age 18 is not the end of youth development, but rather a transitional point where young people continue to learn and grow into their mid-twenties. But in New York, a 19-year-old is automatically tried as an adult and faces adult sentencing, potential incarceration, and a lifelong permanent record. This report focuses on research and policy interventions for emerging adults 18 - 25. On the heels of a youth-led movement demanding criminal justice reform and community re-investment, the report offers a deeper examination of our youth justice system and considers bold policies that will promote genuine safety, racial justice, and opportunities for youth. I designed it with Youth Represent and Children’s Defense Fund - New York, incorporating youth-produced art alongside data visualizations.
Report design by Valeria Mogilevich.
Cover art by Sid with support from Mark Strandquist, 2018.
Art on page 6 by Cornellius with support from Kate DeCiccio, 2016.
Download a PDF of the report here.