Judith Howell's testimony at the SD Board of Supervisors hearing on Alternatives to Incarceration
Channel: CPI San Diego
Date: 2022-02-23

On February 8, 2022 Judith Howell shared a heartbreaking story of what happens when police come instead of mental health professionals. She called on the County of San Diego to stop the over policing and incarceration of Black and Brown communities and to focus on what really keeps us safe. 

"We need less police and more health care professionals with trauma informed care, empathy and compassion for people who are suffering and in need of medical attention. 

And I emphasize having trauma informed health care providers because many people who are brought into hospitals for treatment can also be criminalized by health care providers who don't have trauma informed care.

And lastly, the county must prioritize the needs of transitional youth to reduce recidivism and provide opportunities to include, but not limited to, mental health resources,housing and employment opportunities."

Judith is a Community Advocate at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest Action Fund and a member of the Invest in San Diego Families Coalition.