It’s the start of the new legislative session, and with it comes new opportunities to advance justice for Massachusetts families and youth!

An Act relative to language access and inclusion (H.3384/S.2125) would ensure access for people who are limited English proficient to necessary government programs and resources which impact their safety, security, and prosperity, such as healthcare, housing, and domestic violence services.

An act to reduce exclusionary discipline for rules related to student grooming and dress (H.576/S.368) would build off the recent passage of the CROWN Act, which banned race-based hair discrimination, and prohibit schools from suspending or expelling students based solely on a dress code violation. This issue disproportionately impacts Black and brown girls, as dress codes are rarely neutral policies and often reinforce sexist, racist, homophobic, and xenophobic norms.

An Act allowing certain minors to consent to supportive services (H.290/S.132) would expand the legal rights of unaccompanied minors experiencing homelessness by allowing those ages 15 or older to consent to shelter and supportive services without a parent or guardian. Young people under age 18 may be experiencing homelessness alone for a number of reasons, such as abuse or family conflict over sexual orientation and gender identity, and H.290/S.132 would enable this exceptionally vulnerable population to access existing services and meet their basic needs.

Together, these bills will help ensure equal access to government services for all residents, disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline, and assist youth experiencing homelessness on their journey towards safety.

We’ve already started a message for you – click “Start Writing” above to add your own details and urge your legislators to co-sponsor H.3384/S.2125, H.576/S.368, and H.290/S.132!