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Atlanta’s Jail Diversion Program Rooted in LGBTQ+ Activism Makes Strides in Supporting Vulnerable Communities
In an era where criminal justice reform continues to dominate national conversations, Atlanta’s Policing Alternatives & Diversion Initiative (PAD) is making significant strides by offering a compassionate alternative to incarceration for individuals in crisis. Bolstered by LGBTQ+ activism, this program is not only reshaping public safety measures but also reinforcing community ties within Atlanta.
Pioneering Community-Based Care
Established in 2017, PAD was borne out of a necessity to address the disproportionate impact of traditional policing efforts on vulnerable communities, particularly those facing substance abuse, mental health challenges, or homelessness. By offering community-based care as an alternative to arrest, PAD is stripping the cycle of criminalization that burdens many residents.
In 2024, the initiative managed over 1,300 calls through ATL311, successfully diverting more than 250 people from jail and providing critical case management support to 752 individuals. These measures include housing, transportation, food, and healthcare access for those in need, marking an impressive local impact.
“It’s not just about us providing these services day-to-day. It’s also about the fact that we really built this model with the people who are served by it,” stated PAD’s Executive Director, Moki Macías. For many community members, PAD is transforming lives and fostering hope.
The Power and Influence of LGBTQ+ Activism
PAD’s origins are deeply intertwined with LGBTQ+ advocacy, particularly through the efforts of organizations such as Solutions Not Punishment Collaboration (SnapCo). This coalition emerged in response to a proposed city ordinance targeting trans sex workers, advocating instead for humane treatment and systemic change.
“It is relevant that PAD evolved from a vision by Black, Brown, queer, and transgender people seeking safety in their communities and that their vision could include all people who are deeply marginalized and criminalized,” Macías emphasized.
Drawing inspiration from the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program in Seattle, PAD was adapted to meet Atlanta’s unique needs and expanded significantly around 2020, when the city council authorized increased funding. SnapCo and similar groups continue to provide vital support and advocacy, underscoring the depth of community interest in progressive alternatives to incarceration.
Challenges and Triumphs in Expanding the Program
Despite its success and broad community support, PAD’s future was uncertain earlier this year when the City of Atlanta initially stalled contract legislation. Mayor Andre Dickens’ administration sought competitive bidding for the program, leading to a tense standoff when no other agencies responded.
Community advocates and residents expressed their dedication to the program, urging the city council to extend PAD’s operation. Their voices were heard; on November 18, 2024, the council extended PAD’s contract, ensuring its continued operation into the next year.
“For us, this is so much bigger than any one contract. It’s really about what our vision for how Atlanta can serve people,” expressed Macías, highlighting the personal and communal stakes involved.
Moving Forward: Increased Awareness and Engagement
Looking ahead, PAD’s new contract effective January 1, 2025, aims to increase public awareness about using ATL311 for non-emergency crisis assistance, a crucial step in lessening the reliance on police intervention. By encouraging calls to ATL311 instead of 911, PAD hopes to streamline access to support services and improve resource allocation.
This initiative is not just a testament to the resilience and innovation of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ activists but also a potential blueprint for other cities grappling with how to effectively balance public safety with social equity.
As Atlanta continues to develop community-centred solutions, PAD stands as a beacon for change. Its ongoing success signifies a powerful shift in the fabric of local governance — one that prioritizes empathy, humanizing public policy, and encompasses all residents’ rights to safety and dignity.
Supporting Local Journalism and Staying Informed
Programs like PAD benefit tremendously from engaged citizens and informed communities. Rough Draft Atlanta, a hyperlocal news outlet covering key developments in neighborhoods across DeKalb and Fulton counties, invites support of its journalism through memberships and shopping via their Amazon link. Readers can also stay updated by subscribing to newsletters for the latest on dining, arts, politics, real estate, and more.
As PAD continues to reflect its foundational roots in activism and community response, it serves as an inspiring reminder of the local impact residents can achieve by working together toward a more just and equitable Atlanta.
For more information about PAD and Atlanta’s community services, resources are available through the ATL311 line. Residents and advocates alike are encouraged to get involved, ensuring these vital programs remain a cornerstone of Atlanta’s approach to public safety.
