On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Kalamazoo residents will gather at the Douglass Community Association for a pivotal event: the “Community Conversation: Resisting & Obstructing Charges.”
Hosted by NowKalamazoo and Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency, this forum aims to shed light on how Resisting and Obstructing charges are applied within the criminal justice system and their broader implications for the community.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- 5:30 PM: Community Dinner
- 6:00–8:00 PM: Program and Dialogue
- Location: Douglass Community Association, 1000 W. Paterson St., Kalamazoo, MI
The evening begins with a community dinner, fostering an environment for open dialogue and connection. Following the meal, attendees will engage in discussions centered on the use of resisting and obstructing charges, sharing experiences and exploring avenues for reform.
Understanding the Issue
Resisting and Obstructing charges can encompass a wide range of actions, from physical resistance to non-compliance with law enforcement directives.
These charges are sometimes applied inconsistently, or slapped on for plea bargaining leverage, potentially leading to disproportionate impacts on certain communities.
The conversation seeks to address these concerns by bringing together community members, legal experts, and activists to discuss the nuances of these charges and their effects on individuals’ lives.
A Collaborative Effort
This event is a collaborative initiative between NowKalamazoo and the Campaign for Criminal Justice and Transparency (CCJT).
Both organizations are committed to promoting transparency and equity within the criminal justice system. By facilitating this conversation, they aim to empower community members with knowledge and foster collective action towards meaningful reform.
Your Participation Matters
Engaging in this conversation offers community members an opportunity to:
- Gain Insight: Understand the legal framework and real-world application of resisting and obstructing charges.
- Share Experiences: Provide personal perspectives and hear from others affected by these charges.
- Explore Solutions: Collaborate on identifying strategies for fairer legal practices and policies.
Community members are a vital part of this dialogue. By participating, you contribute to a collective effort aimed at fostering a more just and equitable community.
Join the Conversation
Whether you’re directly affected by these issues or an ally seeking to support justice reform, your presence and input are invaluable.
Together, we can work towards a criminal justice system that upholds fairness and accountability for all.
For more information and to stay updated on the event, visit NowKalamazoo’s event page.