Exploring the Law and Building Foundations

The first full day of the Advanced Law and Justice Reform Program began with energy and excitement. As interns awoke on Georgetown’s campus, they were greeted by Leadership Initiatives staff in lively costumes and upbeat music to start the morning on a high note. 

The morning began with a foundational lecture from staff attorney Keah Beeftu, who introduced interns to the Incarceration Reduction Amendment Act (IRAA), the law they will be using throughout the week as they prepare their motion and oral argument. Her presentation helped frame the importance of second chances and set the tone to inspire students when working with their clients. 

Afterward, the interns divided into their case groups. Case B remained with Keah to walk through client materials and begin unpacking their case files, while the other group participated in an engaging session with Professor Peter Loge, who offered expert advice on how to turn ideas into legislation through effective advocacy and persuasive strategy. Both groups asked thoughtful questions as today paved the way for program deliverables. 

In the afternoon, interns reconvened to begin researching congressional bills related to justice reform. Working in their congressional groups, they explored active legislation, evaluating which policies aligned best with the needs of their client and the broader mission of reform. This hands-on research laid the foundation for the lobbying efforts they will take on later in the week when they present a one-pager to a staffer of Congress. 

The day continued with a deeply moving lecture from Shekhinah Braveheart, who shared her experiences as a corrections officer and the injustices she witnessed behind bars. Her story gave interns a personal window into the realities of the system and inspired meaningful reflection.

To close out the day, interns gathered for a powerful client panel led by attorney Rebecca Bloch, where they heard directly from individuals who had been granted IRAA resentencing. These speakers generously shared their stories of incarceration, redemption, and reintegration, leaving a lasting impact on every intern in the room.