Facing an injust justice system OPINION

Editorial

Texas teens statewide are organizing a movement to reform the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) after it has come under scrutiny for mistreating and neglecting the minors under its watch. On the first day of the legislative session in Texas, a storm was already brewing on the steps of the Capitol building. According to the Texas Tribune, members of the “Finish the 5” advocacy group held a protest on the Capitol grounds, urging lawmakers to consider serious reforms of the system along with complete closure of the remaining five juvenile detention centers in the state of Texas. This movement, largely managed and operated by Austin-area teens, has committed to raising support and awareness around the issue.

The TJJD has been plagued with scandal after scandal. The department has been criticized for its understaffed facilities, mistreatment of the indi-