REFORM Alliance Future Shapers Network

GEN Z IS THE LARGEST AND MOST DIVERSE VOTING BLOC IN OUR NATION’S HISTORY

Gen Z is leading the charge for a more effective and equitable justice system. In 2023, REFORM Alliance launched the Future Shapers Advisory Council, a dynamic group of young leaders committed to transforming supervision.

It began as a vision shared over dinner, as influential Gen Zers—including Gen Zers with lived experience in the system—joined Michael Rubin and Kim Kardashian for an important discussion about supervision reform. From there, that vision has grown into a powerful nationwide movement. From visiting Lancaster prison to hear firsthand accounts of the system's impact to spearheading a nationwide Gen Z Day of Action, these young activists are rewriting the narrative on justice reform.

They’re also rewriting the story of Gen Z activism in the process. Public opinion polling used to show that Gen Z ranked criminal justice fairly low on its political priorities. But a 2024 survey conducted by REFORM Alliance and the Bullfinch Group found that 72% of Gen Z respondents believe it is crucial for elected officials to support justice reform—with a particular focus on supervision systems. That’s not all: The poll also found that 90% of Gen Zers prioritize public safety and 71% back policies designed to reduce technical violations.

To amplify these voices and capitalize on this momentum, REFORM Alliance's Future Shapers Advisory Council is launching the Future Shapers Network, mobilizing young leaders nationwide to drive meaningful policy changes and inspire others to join our Gen Z movement for a fairer, more effective justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.

View the entirety of the poll data here.