NEW ORLEANS – Daughters Beyond Incarceration (DBI) is hosting a series of events in honor of Youth Violence Prevention Week. Organizers share that this year’s programming focuses on uplifting youth voices, exploring policy solutions and bridging the gap between communities and decision-makers to prevent cycles of systemic violence and incarceration.
DBI’s Youth Violence Prevention Week events are led by the organization’s Policy Fellows – young women personally impacted by parental incarceration – who are using their voices to drive critical conversations around justice, reform and safety.
The week will feature a livestreamed conversation on how communities can better support children of incarcerated parents and disrupt cycles of violence. The DBI fellow will end the week with Youth Day at the Capitol for a full day of learning and legislative engagement.
“These events are about empowering young people with knowledge, connection, and a platform to shape the systems that directly impact their lives,” said DBI Founder Dominque Johnson about the events. “Youth voices are powerful, and this week is about making sure those voices are not just heard, but acted on.”
DBI shares that the organization has rescheduled its Youth Violence Prevention Week events to ensure full youth participation following local school spring breaks. This year’s theme centers on advocacy, empowerment and action—giving youth the tools, connections, and courage to influence the systems shaping their futures.
“Youth Day at the Capitol is more than a field trip—it’s a launchpad,” said Johnson. “We are helping young people recognize their power, use their voices, and step into leadership with purpose and clarity.”
Space is limited for Youth Day at the Capitol, and registration is required. Lunch, snacks, and swag bags will be provided to all registered participants.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Wednesday, April 30, at 6 p.m.
Instagram Live: Youth Voices on Violence Prevention
Join DBI’s Policy Fellows for a powerful, youth-led discussion livestreamed from the DBI office. Fellows will guide a Q&A session based on community survey responses, discussing how systems can better support youth and families impacted by incarceration. Follow @dbinola on Instagram to tune in live.
Friday, May 2, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Youth Day at the Capitol
DBI’s signature event returns to the Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge, bringing together youth from across the state for a full day of policy education, civic engagement, and advocacy training. Attendees will connect with state legislators, participate in breakout sessions, and learn how to champion youth-centered solutions to violence and incarceration.
Youth Registration: Click here to register
Volunteer Registration: Click here to sign up
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