Youth Diversion and Justice Reform in California

Mariana Ramirez

Mariana’s project looks at youth diversion and justice reform in California, focusing on the shift from state-run youth prisons to local Secure Youth Treatment Facilities. It highlights how this change aims to move away from punishment and toward rehabilitation, keeping youth closer to home and centered on education and mental health support. At the same time, the project points out ongoing racial disparities, uneven funding across counties, and limited access to specialized services. While reform is a step forward, stronger prevention and community-based programs are needed to keep youth out of the system in the first place.

Check out Mariana’s one-pager here, and her presentation here.