Onward Blog

After 40 years in prison, Philadelphia couple release “A New Voice” documentary about returning citizens

By JLUSA

August 29, 2025

After spending 40 years in incarceration, Philadelphia couple Mike and Debbie Davis are turning their lives around as filmmakers.

Sen. Keturah Herron joins Louisville Community Safety Commission along with other local change agents

By JLUSA

August 27, 2025

As issues of violence, substance use, and residents’ lack of trust in police persist in the Metro, that’s where the group of change agents comes in.

JustLeadershipUSA® Opposes Effort to End “Cashless Bail” Policies in D.C. and Nationwide

By JLUSA

August 25, 2025

Today’s directive is yet another example of a solution in search of a problem.

Robyn Hasan-Simpson on why Georgia’s Survivor Justice Act is “better” than others around the nation

By JLUSA

“We just shared our story of how by having this law, it basically protects us for trying to survive.”

Fox and Rob return to the screen with new Time II: Unfinished Business documentary

By JLUSA

August 22, 2025

In this touching next chapter of their saga, the film plunges us headfirst into the aftermath of Rob’s release from Angola after 21 grueling years.

Doug Smith on his new book The Path of Rocks and Thorns: Leadership Lessons from a Prison Cell

By JLUSA

August 20, 2025

Doug Smith (Leading with Conviction™ 2018) has a new book entitled The Path of Rocks & Thorns: Leadership Lessons from a Prison Cell.

Harold Trulear, Ph.D. shares his powerful personal story — from incarceration to the academy

By JLUSA

August 18, 2025

Dr. Harold Trulear (Leading with Conviction™ 2017) sits down for a powerful conversation on justice and the prophetic witness of the Black Church.

“Songs from the Hole” one of the best new things to watch on streaming this week

By JLUSA

August 15, 2025

Songs From the Hole focuses on JJ’88, who says he’s been “thinking about freedom since the day I got locked up when I was 15.”

Dieter Cantu on contributing to new report on “Improving Health and Safety as Youth and Young Adults Leave the Justice System”

By JLUSA

August 13, 2025

Dieter Cantu (Leading with Conviction™ 2020) said, “Proud to have contributed to this new issue brief.”

Dominique Grant on Georgia’s purge of nearly half a million voters

By JLUSA

August 11, 2025

In a new video on TikTok, Dominique Grant (Leading with Conviction™ 2024) says, “If you have a felony conviction but you’re off paper, YOU CAN VOTE!”

SaulPaul participates in Savannah, Georgia youth summit

August 8, 2025

SaulPaul (Leading with Conviction™ 2018) spoke to teens about his life and how important it was to know they’re born on purpose, with a purpose.

JLUSA panel discussion chosen for SXSW 2026 Community Voting—vote online now through August 24

By JLUSA

August 6, 2025

SXSW 2026 PanelPicker® Community Voting has officially opened, and we need your help! Please vote for our panel proposal “Unlikely Allies.”