In a moment that has captured both hearts and headlines, 9-year-old Kaitlyn Peoples appeared before Louisiana lawmakers on Monday, April 28, and delivered a stirring rebuke of Senate Bill 74.
The bill is a controversial juvenile justice measure that critics say would further criminalise children rather than support their growth.
Despite hours of waiting to speak, the young student remained composed and determined as she spoke bravely into the microphone in front of her. Her testimony, though brief, was clear, impassioned, and deeply persuasive, calling out the state’s priorities in its treatment of children.
“Right now, Louisiana is spending more money to lock kids up than to help us learn,” Kaitlyn said. “They spend over $100,000 a year to keep one kid in prison, but only about $13,000 to teach us in school. That’s not fair.”
Senate Bill 74: A Point of Contention
Louisiana’s Senate Bill 74, which is under consideration in the state legislature, proposes increased penalties and enhanced detention measures for youth offenders. Supporters argue it is aimed at curbing juvenile crime. However, civil rights advocates, educators, and families argue that it would disproportionately harm Black and low-income children while exacerbating cycles of incarceration. The bill was introduced by Senator Alan Seabaugh.
Kaitlyn’s testimony reflected the broader concerns of critics who see the bill as a retreat from evidence-based, child-centered justice reform.
“Imagine if we use that money to build better schools, more teachers, and afterschool programs to help kids stay on the right path,” she pleaded. “We are the fruit of that. How can we grow if our state invests in punishment instead of possibilities?”
A Voice That Rose Above the Chamber
Following her initial remarks, Kaitlyn delivered a bold and emotional conclusion that left a lasting impression on the chamber.
“If you don’t [listen to us], we will be the ones rebuilding without you later. Choose wisely. Our future depends on it,” she said.
Then she offered a moral and spiritual challenge directed at lawmakers:
“Mr. Seabaugh, this is for you. God says suffer the little children to come unto me, not chain them up and cut them away. 74 is a sin against us.”
A Standing Ovation from Lawmakers
Senator Regina Barrow, visibly moved by the young advocate’s courage and clarity, took a moment to offer words of encouragement.
“First of all, let me just commend you on your courage. It takes a lot to come before us and to speak,” Barrow said. “You’ve done a wonderful job, and I see a very bright future for you in this arena. Always know that you have a place at that table—or any table you desire to be at.”
A Symbol of Hope Amid Legislative Battles
Kaitlyn Peoples’ testimony is already being shared widely on social media, with many calling her a “youth leader in the making” and a powerful example of the voices too often excluded from policymaking.
For critics of SB 74, her appearance at the Capitol reinforced what many have long argued: children deserve investment, not incarceration.
As the debate over juvenile justice in Louisiana continues, one message rings loud and clear—thanks to Kaitlyn:
“Louisiana leaders, will you invest in prison, or in us?”
