| The Wilmington Fines and Fees Justice Team, a collaboration of community members pushing for reforms in Wilmington’s fines and fees collection practices, is being recognized for its efforts by the Delaware Bar Association and the Delaware Center for Justice this week. The Delaware State Bar Association’s Multicultural Judges and Lawyers Section has selected the Wilmington Fines and Fees Justice Team as the Haile L. Alford Community Service Award Winner. The Community Service Award is given to an individual or organization who has exhibited a strong commitment and has made outstanding contributions to serving the community. The team is scheduled to be awarded at the Alford Memorial Breakfast on May 9, which honors the life and legacy of Judge Haile L. Alford, the first African American woman appointed to serve on the Superior Court of Delaware. Judge Alford was an avid proponent of increased diversity in the Delaware Bar. On May 10, the Delaware Center for Justice will hold its annual celebration and recognize the Wilmington Fines and Fees Justice Team with the 2024 Standing Up for What’s Right & Just (SURJ) Award. The award honors those who have advanced the quality of criminal justice in Delaware in the previous calendar year. The Wilmington Fines and Fees Justice Team has worked together with the city of Wilmington to address issues suchwater billing and parking tickets, booting, and towing in the city. “Our team is grateful for these recognitions from the Delaware Bar Association and the Delaware Center for Justice,” said Shyanne Miller. “We’re looking forward to continuing to work with the current administration, the next administration, and members of city council on fine and fee reform to advance racial and economic equity in Wilmington and promote sustainable budgeting practices.” |
