In a democratic society, civic engagement is the foundation of a functional government.

Civic engagement empowers citizens to participate meaningfully in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.

In 2019, I became involved with SMART JUSTICE, an affiliate of the ACLU of Connecticut, motivated by a compelling email invitation that sparked my interest. This association has afforded me invaluable experience in civic engagement, allowing me to lobby legislators, policymakers, and advocates within the Legislative Office building and the State Capitol, resulting in the implementation of meaningful reform

With the unwavering support of the ACLU of Connecticut (Smart Justice), I have cultivated a comprehensive understanding of legislative lobbying and honed the essential skills required for effective community advocacy. My initiatives included tracking legislative bills, researching committee assignments, and engaging in digital marketing campaigns. Inspired by our lobbying efforts, we seized the opportunity to champion pivotal legislation that significantly influenced the reform process.

My lobbying strategies have encompassed diverse approaches, from direct engagement with legislators to orchestrating grassroots campaigns aimed at mobilizing public support. Each skill acquired can be imparted and scaled, fostering robust relationships with policymakers. Through our efforts, we have provided vital information and compelling arguments that have facilitated informed decision-making.

Thanks to the exceptional endeavors of Smart Justice and the ACLU, we celebrated the passage of Senate Bill 880, a landmark achievement that pioneers the collection and evaluation of prosecutorial data to combat racial bias.

Connecticut is positioned to lead the nation in systematically gathering data related to prosecutorial practices, detailing the number of defendants receiving prison sentences, plea bargains, or diversionary programs, meticulously categorized by race, ethnicity, sex, and age.

In 2021, Smart Justice demonstrated a commitment to bipartisan collaboration by supporting the passage of Senate Bill 1019, the Clean Slate Bill. This transformative piece of legislation aims to expunge records of nonviolent offenses, consequently enhancing access to employment and housing opportunities for individuals with a history of incarceration.

In 2022, Smart Justice collaborated with Stop Solitary CT to advocate for Act 22-18, a revolutionary measure that establishes clear parameters for solitary confinement within state correctional facilities, while also introducing essential guidelines for the use of isolated confinement. This initiative represents a significant advancement in the treatment of incarcerated individuals.

Recognizing the profound impact I could achieve through lobbying. Change-Policy with the mindset that groundbreaking policy reforms such as those in Connecticut can be duplicated nationwide by passionate citizens who are willing to serve.

My journey exemplifies the power of civic engagement and highlights how individuals can influence  the laws governing their communities. With my expertise and unwavering commitment to advocacy. Change-Policy is poised to make tangible progress in the realm of social justice. I appreciate your support in this vital mission.

Donald Rivers  

Founder and Chief Research Officer  

Change-Policy