Advocacy

&

Systems

Change

The After Life Initiative (ALI) leads a systems change program that empowers system-impacted individuals to become agents of policy, and cultural transformation. Through community organizing, civic engagement, and leadership development, ALI equips impacted people to influence systems that have historically excluded them.

We address structural barriers to opportunity by advocating for occupational licensure reform so people with records can access high-quality careers in fields like law, tech, and trades. ALI also shifts harmful public narratives through media campaigns that humanize system-impacted individuals and challenge the belief that punishment creates safety.

Civic engagement is a core part of our work. We register every member to vote during intake and provide accessible, nonpartisan voter guides to help them make informed decisions.

Our programming also centers healing and racial justice through trauma-informed peer support groups, wellness events, and restorative community spaces that promote resilience and connection.

Together, these strategies advance long-term systems change by putting the leadership of those most impacted at the center of cultural, workforce, and policy transformation.

This Year's Initiatives

Every Step Forward Is a Step Toward a More Equitable Community

Here are some of the initiatives that we are standing behind in 2025:

SB 245

SB 245 builds on the foundation of AB 2147 by expanding expungement opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals who served in fire camps, allowing more of them to clear their records and access meaningful employment—particularly in firefighting and other public service roles. Currently introduced in the California Senate, the bill represents a critical step toward recognizing the contributions of system-impacted individuals and removing barriers to successful reentry.

ACA 6

Proposition 6 seeks to ban all forms of slavery and involuntary servitude in California, including in prisons.

It ensures no person is forced to work against their will, affirming basic human rights and dignity for all.

SB 672

SB 672 allows people sentenced to life without parole for crimes committed at age 25 or younger to be eligible for parole after 25 years.

It mandates that youth offender parole hearings for these individuals be held by January 1, 2028.