Speakers' Bureau
There is power in people’s stories. I am grateful to have a glimpse into the lives of these amazing women.
My impression of women prisoners is no longer based on misconceptions but the fact that they too are human beings who deserve a second chance.
--Speakers' Bureau Evaluations
CLAIM's Speakers' Bureau is made up of formerly incarcerated women who have the courage and the drive to share their experience with others. Trained public speakers, they speak to university classes, church groups, and at conferences and other civic events. Audience members regularly comment on the poignancy, clarity, and power of our speakers as they share their personal stories. When Speakers' Bureau m
embers engage with their audiences they break down stereotypes, educate the public, and open hearts and minds to CLAIM's mission.
To learn more about the Speakers' Bureau, or if you are interested in engaging a speaker, please email Gail Smith.
Create guardianships so children can stay with trusted caregivers, and out of the foster care system. Teach mothers in jail about family law and the best interest of the child. Host meetings for formerly imprisoned women. Testify at public hearings to win humane policy. Meet with corrections officials to make visits better for children. These are a few things that CLAIM staff and volunteers do to bring justice to incarcerated mothers and their children. You can help us make a difference. Please be as generous as possible.
Current Size: 100%
- Approximately 80% of the 16,239 women in Chicago’s Cook County Jail in 2004 were mothers.
- About 80% of women detained at Cook County Jail are charged with non-violent crimes.
Because children need their mothers.