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Kentucky to hold race and justice listening session

Well respected Louisville judge to steer conversation aimed at improving minority engagement in the justice system.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – As Kentucky’s Legislative Black Caucus celebrated Black History Month, the Commonwealth’s Supreme Court Chief Justice gave an update on a promise made in 2017, the Judicial Branch is hoping to host a listening session this spring regarding race and the courts.

“Equal justice under law is viewed by too many as nothing more than a slogan, an empty promise, to far too many communities of color in this state,” Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice John Minton said.

Justice John Minton announced that 4th Appellate District Judge Denise Clayton will lead the effort.

Judge Clayton chairs the Jefferson County Racial Fairness Commission which studies issues involving sentencing, bail, jury selection and the courtroom environment.

Justice Minton said the commission has issued reports that have impacted legislation.

At last year's Black History Celebration, he called for listening sessions to take more public input, none have taken place. Tuesday, he vowed to make good on the promise.

“We hope to hold our first listening session in Jefferson County, in the spring, with the intent of educating ourselves, the court system and the public on strategies to improve minority engagement with the courts and to receive feedback and comments on ways we can improve the services we provide the people we serve,” he said.

Louisville lawmakers we spoke with appreciated the update, but want to see action. Representative Darryl Owens thinks Judge Clayton is the perfect choice to lead the discussion.

“Hopefully we will get some significant changes that we need so people will not only feel the system is fair they will see it working,” Rep. Owens said.

Rep. Reginald Meeks said, "We just hope everybody comes out and participates in it and they take what they hear and actually do something with it. I believe Justice Minton will do that."

“I'm looking forward to them having the opportunity hear and learn and then figure out what our call to action is,” Representative Attica Scott said.

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