Kids Serving Life: A Call for Change
In the U.S., at least 79 children under 14 are serving life without parole—drawing global outrage and raising tough questions about justice for kids.
Many of these children come from poverty, broken homes, and communities shaped by racism. Some committed serious crimes; others were bystanders. Lionel Tate, for example, was sentenced at 12 after a wrestling game ended in tragedy.
Experts argue kids lack the maturity to fully understand their actions, and locking them up for life denies them any chance to grow. “It’s like saying a child can never change,” says human rights lawyer Juan Méndez.
Though the Supreme Court banned mandatory life sentences for minors in 2012 and made it retroactive, many cases remain unresolved. Advocates continue to push for reform—and for second chances.
