The intersection of mental health issues and the legal system in Hays County is the subject of a public forum led by LatinoJustice, February 1, at the Wimberley Valley Library..
Speakers include local civil rights attorneys with LatinoJustice, advocates and individuals directly impacted by the criminalization of mental illness.
“As Hays County moves forward with their plans to establish a Jail Based Competency Restoration Program, it’s critical that we hold community discussions to inform our neighbors of current initiatives and make space for individuals directly impacted by the criminalization of mental illness,” says Karen Muñoz, local civil rights attorney with LatinoJustice PRLDEF. Questions to be explored during the forum include: How does local law enforcement respond to mental health-related calls?
How does Hays County Jail treat these individuals?
What resources do and don’t exist to support individuals before they come into contact with the legal system?
What is Hays County currently doing to address the gaps in these systems?
What can community members do to make an impact?
The forum begins at 3:30 p.m. in the Library’s Community Room and will end at 5 p.m. Individuals with direct experience with the carceral system and mental health issues are strongly encouraged to attend. The Wimberley Valley Library is located at 400 FM2325.
