Joint Statement on the Executive Order Targeting Cash Bail Reform
Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
The latest Executive Order penalizing jurisdictions that operate without cash bail is an unconstitutional direct attack on justice, equity, and local innovation. By threatening to strip federal funds, the administration seeks to punish communities that are moving away from wealth-based detention and toward proven, evidence-driven reforms.
The cash bail system does not keep communities safe. To the contrary, it rips families apart and criminalizes poverty. An estimated 450,000 people are locked in local jails every day, not because they pose a danger to society, but simply because they cannot afford to pay for their freedom. While wealthy people buy their way out, poor people and people of color languish in horrific conditions.
Research from Harris County (TX), New Jersey, New Mexico, and Illinois demonstrates that eliminating cash bail increases fairness without increasing crime. Communities that invest in reminders, transportation, and pretrial supports—not cages—see steady court appearance rates and improved outcomes.
Michigan’s Leadership and Community Solutions
Here in Michigan, we know what’s possible when fairness is prioritized over wealth-based punishment. In Washtenaw County, Prosecutor Eli Savit’s no-cash-bail policy has proven that safety and fairness can coexist without placing a price tag on freedom.
Michigan Liberation’s Bold Against Bail campaign and annual Michigan Black Mama’s Bail Out have reunited more than 100 mothers with their families—women jailed only because they lacked money for bail. These stories underscore how cash bail devastates families and destabilizes communities. Just one night in jail can mean losing a job, housing, or even custody of children.
The Detroit Justice Center has been a vital partner in this fight, providing legal defense, community education, and tireless advocacy for systemic change. Together, our organizations have trained directly impacted leaders, organized town halls, and pushed for policies that prioritize justice over punishment.
Rejecting Federal Coercion
This Executive Order ignores facts and undermines local autonomy. Instead of coercing jurisdictions through funding threats, federal leaders should invest in pretrial services, housing, health care, and family support.
Our communities deserve safety rooted in care, not cages.
Call to Action: BOLD Week in Michigan
Michigan Liberation, Detroit Justice Center, and our allies remain steadfast: we will not be intimidated into silence. Ending cash bail is necessary for a just society. Freedom should never depend on the size of one’s bank account.
As part of our resistance, we are proud to announce that BOLD Praxis will be joining Michigan Liberation in Detroit and Oakland Counties September 8–12, 2025, to support our End Cash Bail Campaign.
Canvassing & Community Engagement
- Tuesday, September 9 | 3:00 – 6:00 PM — Detroit neighborhoods
- Wednesday, September 10 | 1:30 – 5:30 PM — Oakland County (Pontiac, Southfield, Royal Oak Township)
- Thursday, September 11 | 1:30 – 5:30 PM — Oakland County (Pontiac, Southfield, Royal Oak Township)
Locations
- Monday, Tuesday, Friday: The Love Building, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208
- Wednesday, Thursday: Plumbers Local 98 Union Hall / Michigan Liberation Office, 555 Horace Brown Dr, Madison Heights, MI 48071
We warmly invite Michigan Cumbes and community members to:
- Join our canvassing teams
- Attend Town Halls and Lobby Days
- Contact legislators to demand an end to cash bail
- Sign the BOLD Against Bail pledge
Closing Statement
We are deeply honored that BOLD has chosen to stand with us, affirming the strength, vision, and determination of our communities. Together, we will continue to fight until every person’s freedom is no longer dependent on wealth.
Media Contacts
Michigan Liberation
Ms. Marjon Parham (she/her) – Communications Director
Phone: 248.898.9302 | Email: marjon@miliberation.org
Detroit Justice Center
Casey Rocheteau (they/them) – Communications Director
Phone:313.925.3204 | Email: crocheteau@detroitjustice.org