Olive-Harvey College Launches Criminal and Social Justice Center

Olive-Harvey College Launches Criminal and Social Justice Center

CHICAGO — Olive-Harvey College (OHC) has launched its Criminal and Social Justice Center to support communities across the city and beyond. A ribbon cutting took place on Thursday, Feb, 27.

Initiated under the vision of Dr. Jeffery Dillard, an esteemed professor at Olive-Harvey College, the Center for Criminal and Social Justice will advance justice through an intersectional framework that integrates social, ecological, and economic equality for every community. Olive-Harvey College is establishing itself as the central hub for Criminal and Social Justice on the South Side of Chicago, offering a wide range of programs including degrees in Criminal Justice and a pathway to becoming a police officer—to being a catalyst for positive change as it supports the community in finding and learning more about social justice and connecting people to impactful resources.

The Center for Criminal and Social Justice will provide legal services that include expungement services, as well as social support services and advocacy such as “Know Your Rights” seminars for individuals and communities adversely affected or impacted by the criminal legal system. The launch of the Center also aligns with Olive-Harvey College’s Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice in Cannabis programs as well as its courses in Africana Studies, Sociology, art, music, poetry and more.

“I’m beyond thrilled to share that our new Justice Center will be a dedicated space for education and community engagement that focuses on issues related to criminal justice and social equity for all, especially those who have been marginalized,” said Dr. Kimberly Hollingsworth, president of Olive-Harvey College. “The mission of the new center aligns with the overall mission of our college, to uplift people with knowledge, support and the tools—and resources they need to succeed.”

The key initiatives and the goals of the Criminal and Social Justice Center include:

Mock Trial Program: Providing students with hands-on experience in legal processes

Law Clinic Development: The clinic will offer legal assistance and education to students and community; referrals are available now.

Restorative Justice Program: This program will foster dialogue and healing between offenders, victims, and the community

OHC short film fest, an annual event: The film festival showcases films that highlight social justice issues and inspire change

Hold a Speakers Series inviting experts to share insights and provoke thoughtful discussions on justice-related topics

Develop a justice forward music and Spoken Word event: This program will use the arts to raise awareness and inspire action around social justice themes

Community Service/Volunteer Coordination: This program will engage students and community members in meaningful service opportunities.

“I’m grateful to be a part of this amazing initiative because establishing a Justice Center will cultivate a deeper understanding of social issues as it fosters a culture of advocacy and responsibility. By engaging students and the community in these programs, the Justice Center will educate and empower individuals to become catalysts for positive change,” said Dr. Jeffery Dillard, professor at Olive-Harvey College. “The Center will also serve the public good by promoting awareness, enhancing community engagement and ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society.”

For more information or to make an appointment at the Criminal and Social Justice Center, the public can call (773) 291- 6497.


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