2024 Justice Conversation

Each year, Georgia Appleseed’s Justice Conversations brings together some of Georgia’s most influential judges and policymakers to tackle the big issues facing children in our state. This year, we’re zeroing in on a foundational issue: housing. Without safe and stable housing, a child’s future is at risk. On December 3, join us as we explore the critical intersections of housing, the law, and child well-being with a powerhouse panel representing Georgia’s judicial, legislative, and executive branches.

“For the past five years, Justice Conversations has driven essential discussions on Georgia’s present and future—especially how we can better serve our children,” says Executive Director Michael Waller. “This year, we’re taking on housing because it’s the bedrock for every child’s success. Every branch of government has a role to play in making sure all children, especially our most vulnerable, have a safe place to call home.”

Over the years, Justice Conversations has tackled some of the most pressing issues impacting Georgia’s youth, bringing leaders together to examine what’s working, what’s not, and what’s next:

• 2023: Is School Discipline Georgia’s Third Criminal Justice System? Featuring Judge J.P. Boulee (U.S. District Court), Judge Amanda Heath (Georgia Superior Court), and Dr. Garry McGibboney (Sharecare)
• 2022: Kids and the Courts. With Justice Charlie Bethel (Georgia Supreme Court), Presiding Judge Yvette Miller (Georgia Court of Appeals), Judge Renata Turner (Fulton County Juvenile Court), and Judge Amanda Heath (Georgia Superior Court)
• 2021: Georgia’s Accountability Courts. With Judge Amy Totenburg (U.S. District Court), Judge Steven Grimberg (U.S. District Court), and Chief Judge Asha Jackson (DeKalb County Superior Court)  
• 2020: Behavioral Health Reform in Georgia and Lessons Learned from Criminal Justice Reform. Featuring Justice Michael P. Boggs (Georgia Supreme Court) 
• 2018: War Stories and Practice Pointers from the Bench. With Justice David Nahmias (Georgia Supreme Court) and Justice Charles Wells (ret. Florida Supreme Court) 

Each Justice Conversation allows the audience to hear directly from leaders shaping Georgia’s legal landscape. The format encourages open discussion, allowing participants to ask questions, share expertise and experience, and gain the knowledge they need to advocate for justice in their communities.  “Open dialogue is an essential driver of systemic change,” said Michael.

Join us on December 3 to connect, learn, and be part of a movement that’s shaping the future for Georgia’s children. Visit the Georgia Appleseed website to stay updated on this and other upcoming events.