This year's Breaking Barriers 3.0 event convened by Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS) centered on "Shared Safety," a theme that compels us to reimagine safety as a collective responsibility. The event gathered diverse stakeholders in Oakland to craft a community-focused approach to safety, emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity.
Held at the Oakland State Building on Clay Street, the event convened a dynamic group of leaders, advocates, and community members committed to fostering a sustainable environment of safety and well-being in Alameda County.
A Convergence of Leaders and Innovators
The day kicked off with powerful remarks from Donald Frazier, CEO of BOSS, setting the tone for a day of insightful discourse and collaborative thinking.
Following the opening, a Californians for Safety and Justice presentation delved into innovative safety strategies, emphasizing the need for reform and community involvement.
A highlight of the morning was the keynote address by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, who passionately spoke about legislative efforts to enhance community safety. Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson also contributed, offering insights into local government’s role in supporting impactful safety measures.
A critical insight shared during the forum is that less than 1% of California’s $14.6 billion budget allocated for the prison system is spent on community-based organizations that support re-entry and rehabilitation. This statistic highlights the disproportionate spending priorities, with much of the state’s budget going toward punitive measures rather than preventive care.
Alarmlingly, Proposition 36, which seeks to reverse positive reforms made by Prop 47, is polling at 70%, signaling a risk that policies focusing on rehabilitation and diversion from prison could be undermined if passed.
Key strategies discussed at the convening included enhancing community policing models, increasing access to mental health services, and expanding support for reentry programs. These strategies are not standalone solutions but are part of a broader, integrated effort to address systemic issues that lead to violence and incarceration.
Envisioning Safety in Action
Panelists explored various aspects of safety and justice, discussing challenges and opportunities in building safer communities through collective action.
In the afternoon, attendees engaged in focused breakout sessions, where they applied the principle of Envisioning Safety to real-world scenarios. These sessions were pivotal as participants brainstormed and proposed practical solutions tailored to the needs of their communities.
BOSS is dedicated to continuing this vital work by organizing future convenings and workshops that allow for even deeper engagement and more comprehensive solution-building. By identifying roles for each stakeholder and facilitating ongoing participation, BOSS is ensuring that the journey toward shared safety is inclusive and effective.
"TAKE THE PLEDGE" A Commitment to Action
One of the core outcomes of Breaking Barriers 3.0 was the commitment from all attendees to continue the conversation beyond the confines of the event. The SHARED SAFETY PLEDGE promises to maintain momentum in developing and implementing strategies that reflect the shared contributions of all community members. The commitment underscores a crucial shift from isolated efforts to a synergistic approach that values every voice in the dialogue on safety.
As we move forward, your involvement is crucial! We encourage all community members to participate in our follow-up activities and future events. Together, we can turn the vision of shared safety into a tangible reality. Stay engaged, share your ideas, and help us craft policies and practices that reflect our collective commitment to safety and well-being.
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