About
We Stand AZ
Centering the leadership of justice-impacted individuals to drive systemic change in criminal justice policy.
Help us center justice-impacted voices in policymaking.
Donate NowOur Mission
We Stand AZ centers the voices and leadership of justice-impacted individuals—people with lived experience in the criminal justice system—to build political power for lasting policy change.
We believe that those most impacted by a broken system are the best equipped to lead the movement to transform it. Through advocacy, storytelling, and civic engagement, we amplify lived experience as a powerful force for justice.
Our Vision
An Arizona where justice-impacted leaders shape criminal justice policy, where lived experience is recognized as expertise, and where systemic change puts dignity and collective power at the center.
Core Values
Lived Experience as Leadership
Those most impacted by the criminal justice system possess the wisdom, insight, and expertise to lead the movement for change. We center their voices, honor their agency, and amplify their leadership at all levels of our work.
Dignity Over Punishment
We reject the narrative of punishment and shame. Every person deserves dignity, second chances, and the opportunity to contribute to their community. We fight for systems that treat people with humanity.
Storytelling as Power
Personal narratives break down barriers and shift hearts. We create platforms for justice-impacted individuals to share their stories, challenge stereotypes, and inspire transformation through authentic connection.
Community-Driven Solutions
Change happens when communities organize together. We build coalitions, lift collective wisdom, and ensure that those with lived experience drive strategy, decisions, and accountability in our work.
Our Founder
Kara Janssen
Kara Janssen is the Executive Director and founder of We Stand AZ. A formerly incarcerated advocate, Kara brings lived experience and deep commitment to justice-impacted leadership to every aspect of the organization's work.
With a background in advocacy and community organizing, Kara has dedicated her life to creating spaces where people with justice system involvement are centered as the experts and leaders in the movement for change.
She is passionate about ensuring that reform efforts truly listen to and are led by those with lived experience—recognizing that dignity, second chances, and community power are the keys to building a more just Arizona.
"Those most impacted by injustice have the power to lead us toward something better. That's where real change begins."
— Kara Janssen
Join the Movement
Whether you have lived experience with the justice system or want to support this work, we need you.