Winston Law proudly announces our 2023 An End to Stigma Within the Justice System Scholarship winner Blake Krawl. Our $2,500 scholarship awards funds to undergraduate and graduate students who think critically about stigmas in the justice system.
Blake Crawl embodies the dedication and focus on ending stigma supported by our firm. He moved forward with his undergraduate studies, working closely with his schools to set up programs to help individuals entering college after spending time in the prison system.
Our team believes in directly helping students move forward with their education. We look forward to following Blake Krawl’s academic career at UCLA School of Law.
How Blake Krawl Learned of Stigma in the Justice System
Blake Krawl received first-hand experience regarding the impact of stigma in the justice system throughout his life. As a young man in Idaho grappling with trauma and facing bigotry, he became involved in drug use, eventually leading to multiple convictions.
The stigma associated with incarceration followed him after each release from prison, making it harder for him to keep a job or find a place to live, contributing to recidivism.
These issues provided Blake with a deep understanding of the effects of the stigmas associated with the justice system. They also posed a challenge that he had to work relentlessly to overcome over the years.
Blake Krawl Addressed Stigma in the Justice System
Blake Krawl began attending community college classes on the advice of his probation officer. While attending classes, he met other students with similar backgrounds, and they worked together to found the Project Rise Student Community at Santa Ana College.
Mr. Krawl served as president of the project, working closely with four officers with the support of Professor Mark McCallick. The project aimed to support formerly incarcerated students and involved weekly meetings, council sessions, and the development of a network to build support.
The project has grown over the years and provides students with funding and counseling to help them deal with the effects of the justice system stigma.
Mr. Krawl’s Continued Efforts to Combat Stigma
Blake Krawl graduated from his community college program as Valedictorian with Highest Honors. He continued his education at California State University, Long Beach, focusing on continued efforts to connect with formerly incarcerated students.
He worked as President for the Long Beach Rising Scholars, a support group providing assistance to these students. He also worked on the Reentry Advisory Council for the City of Long Beach while volunteering with the Orange County Collaborative Courts.
Blake Krawl’s Work with Felon-Juror Exclusion
While attending college, Mr. Krawl developed a connection with Dr. James Binnall. He became interested in Dr. Binnall’s research into felon-juror exclusion and how this impacts people in California and other states around the country.
While recent laws have restored juror eligibility to individuals convicted of felonies in some areas, many of these individuals never received notification regarding their changed status.
The severity of this issue led to the postponement of several jury trials in Louisiana, in fact, as the state had to assess issues with jury pool selection. Blake Krawl’s work in this area helped to confront stigmas impacting people in the U.S. directly.
Blake Krawl’s Continuing Work Towards Ending Stigma Within the Justice System
Blake Krawl continues to work towards a career in social justice advocacy. He graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2023 and is continuing his education at the University of California, Los Angeles’ School of Law.
He also received acceptance into the Critical Race Studies J.D. Specialization and the David J. Epstein Program in Public Interest Law & Policy. He plans to pursue further education in public interest law.
Blake Krawl believes in supporting an environment of inclusivity and providing offenders with a real chance to reconnect with society by repairing damaged bonds and addressing the harsh effects of the stigma within the justice system.
Winston Law Congratulates Blake Krawl on His Work
Our team at Winston Law extends their heartfelt congratulations to Blake Krawl, the inaugural winner of our An End to Stigma Within the Justice System Scholarship winner.
We’re proud to provide financial support to a skilled, determined, and hardworking student as he works to continue his education and focuses on social justice advocacy.
We Believe in Supporting the Community Through Scholarship Opportunities
Here at Winston Law, we’re proud to support students pursuing academic goals financially. We began offering the An End to Stigma Within the Justice System scholarship in 2023 and look forward to providing funds for additional deserving students.
You can review scholarship information on our website to learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply for future scholarship opportunities.
Learn More About Our Team at Winston Law
Our team at Winston Law has decades of experience helping individuals who sustained injuries due to the negligent actions of another party. We can help you after motor vehicle accidents, animal attacks, slip and fall accidents, and more.
We put our clients first and have a reputation for success. You can contact us if you need assistance with a claim for compensation. Find out more by calling or completing our online contact form.
