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The Children of Incarcerated Parents Bill of Rights
A roadmap for reform to ensure that children whose parents are involved in the criminal legal system are seen and supported.
I have the right...
to be kept safe and informed at the time of my parent’s arrest.
I have the right...
to be heard when decisions are made about me.
I have the right...
to be considered when decisions are made about my parent.
I have the right...
to be well cared for in my parent’s absence.
I have the right...
to speak with, see, and touch my parent.
I have the right...
to support as I face my parent’s incarceration.
I have the right...
not to be judged, blamed, or labeled because my parent is incarcerated.
I have the right...
to a lifeling relationship with my parent.
About the Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights was created in partnership with young people and consists of 8 rights.
Though not legally binding, these rights tell us what children want, need, and are claiming for themselves.
In 2005, the San Francisco Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership launched the Rights to Realities Initiative, with the long-term goal of ensuring that every child in San Francisco whose parent is arrested and/or incarcerated is guaranteed the rights these rights.
During SUSU 2025, we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Rights to Realities Initiative by celebrating our collective achievements and identifying future goals for realizing these rights across the country.
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