ABOUT THE NILE: 

Through research, programming and advocacy, the National Institute for Law and Equity (NILE) seeks to raise public understanding and discussion about the criminal justice system and policies that impact us as a society. Our vision is fair and equitable treatment for all people in the criminal justice system. NILE pursues its mission through sponsorship of relevant symposiums, panels, and focus groups.

The NILE’s most recent research includes:

• examining the impact of contact with the juvenile justice system on families,
• developing a holistic action plan to reduce HIV/AIDS in jail population, and
• partnering with New York University’s Brennan Center for Justice to create guidelines for prosecutors designed to reduce racial bias in discretionary prosecutorial decisions.

ABOUT MOTHERS OF THE NILE:

 Created as an arm of support to the NILE, Mothers of the NILE is a membership-driven organization that operates under the belief that protecting the interest of young people in the community is both an institutional and individual obligation. Founded in 2003, Mothers of the NILE embraces five core values: knowledge, integrity, respect, courage and advocacy which encourage life-long learning, truthfulness, acceptance, inner strength and support. Its vision is to cultivate a just society. Its mission is to reduce the number of children entering the Juvenile and Criminal Justice Systems. Mother of the NILE Programs includes:

• Back to Basics Luncheon Series – addresses ways to assist young people in becoming successful in every aspect of their lives.
• Policy Circles – provides an opportunity for participants to increase their knowledge of social, economic and cultural issues that have a direct affect on institutional policies.

Juvenile Justice Summit, How to Be a Village – brings together youth, parents, clergy, law enforcement and social service providers for the purpose of unifying the community resulting in the successful development of children.

Parent Partner Program – works with parents of truant children to help raise school attendance.