Chief, labeling it "medical separation" does not change the fact that they were confined in isolation, which we know causes significant and irreparable harm. Our young people need human interaction and more support to ensure they can do well when they come back into society. https://twitter.com/ArtAcevedo/status/1250139593975963648

Moreover, over 95% of the kids in the juvenile detention center are Black and Brown children. Systemic racism and inequity and associated problems cause even more harm to children of color. We are basically saying to them that nobody wants them? How is that justice?

Do you really prefer to hold Black and Brown youth in detention & disconnect them from their families during a pandemic that most adults are struggling to cope with? Claiming that their families do not want them home is untrue & an unnecessary dog whistle. We do care. Deeply.

Tomorrow, we are having a community forum about the need to protect youth in custody in Harris Co. due to #COVID19. I invite you to attend so that you can hear from experts what must be done to protect young people & how protecting them prioritizes safety https://bit.ly/2RDMd3Z