Massachusetts Trial Court Hearing

In a significant effort to promote justice, the Massachusetts judiciary, with Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants and Appeals Court Chief Justice Mark V. Green at the helm, organized a listening session held at Roxbury Community College on February 27. The primary aim was to engage with the public, giving them an opportunity to share their experiences and insights on how the justice system could be improved and to better understand the diverse communities' interactions with Massachusetts courts. This listening session was particularly significant as it coincided with the 400-year anniversary of the first documented African people's enslavement in the United States in 1619.

The event attracted various stakeholders, including judges from across the Commonwealth, attorneys, and community organizations. Superior Court Judge Angel Kelley and John Laing, Chief Experience and Diversity Officer for the Trial Court, served as moderators, facilitating an open dialogue. Attendees were encouraged to express their thoughts on topics such as defining a fair and just criminal justice system, achieving "justice for all" when a crime is committed, ensuring fairness, respect, and dignity for all court-involved individuals, and helping judges better understand the impact of the court process on communities of color.

The listening session aimed to strengthen the connection between the Massachusetts judiciary and the community, emphasizing a commitment to justice for all. Superior Court Judge Angel Kelley highlighted the importance of these discussions in building a healthier and more inclusive dialogue around the administration of justice. The Massachusetts courts continue to strive for fairness, respect, and dignity for all individuals who seek justice within their doors, valuing every community member's experience.