This is a quick post to celebrate the inspiring work being done by twelve advocates for families affected by incarceration. In June, the White House honored these individuals as “champions of change,” bringing attention to an oft-overlooked group – children with incarcerated parents and their loved ones.

These twelve people work directly with incarcerated parents and with their children and caregivers; educate us through journalism and collaboration with Sesame Street; and advocate for policy changes to stem the tide of incarceration while improving the well-being of those now affected by it.

From Arkansas to California, Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania, they bring insights gained in their local communities to state and national initiatives, such as campaigns for a Bill of Rights for Children of Incarcerated Parents.

Several of those honored have been involved in a cause familiar to MomsRising readers: the movement to stop shackling women and teens who are pregnant and in the custody of jails, prisons, immigration detention facilities, and juvenile detention facilities.

Another point of intersection on the MomsRising radar is between immigration enforcement, incarceration, and child welfare.

Check out the White House profiles of this group – and find ways to lift up the creativity and perseverance of people working in your community!