FAMILY MATTERS

What rights are denied to families of those killed by police—and why are they so often excluded from basic victim services like counseling, legal aid, and financial support? Unlike other survivors of crime, they are rarely granted official victim status, leaving them with limited access to justice or restitution. Many face an added burden: being treated as suspects instead of survivors. Families are often met with delays, secrecy, and even surveillance—forced to defend their loved one’s character while grieving. How do we fix a system that compounds loss with suspicion? What reforms are needed to ensure these families receive recognition, protection, and a clear path to justice?

Moderator: Angela Rye, Principal and CEO, IMPACT Strategies

Allisa Charles-Findley, Sister of Botham Jean, President of Botham Jean Foundation

Ashley Carr, Atatiana Jefferson’s Sister

Sheila Albers, Mother of John Albers

Wanda Cooper Jones, Mother of Ahmaud Arbery, Founder

of Ahmaud Arbery Foundation

Gretta Gordy-Gardner, Lawyer; Moderated DOJ Family Conversation