Super Mom Myths Panel Discussion

The "Super Mom Myths" panel discussion is an event organized by Moms United and the Northside Transformative Law Center. It focuses on the criminalization of mothers, particularly those who are poor and disproportionately women of color, who find themselves in abusive or coercive situations.

The discussion addresses legal theories such as "failure to protect" and accountability laws that hold individuals responsible for the actions of others, often their abusers. It also examines how poverty, abuse, and trauma are managed within punitive systems rather than through supportive resources, advocating for the dismantling of these systems in favor of fully resourced communities and comprehensive healthcare.

The panel features Alexandra Chambers from the Free Shantonio Hunter Campaign, Monica Cosby of Moms United, and Tanya Gassenheimer from the Shriver Center on Poverty Law. Attendees include loved ones of mothers affected by these issues, domestic violence advocates, public defenders, state’s attorneys, probation and parole board members, and the general public.

Co-sponsors of the event include Chicago Books to Women in Prison, Chicago Community Bond Fund, Circles & Ciphers, Justice for Alisha Walker/Support Ho(s)e, Love & Protect, The Women’s Justice Institute, and Westside Justice Center. The event is fully accessible, offers free street parking, welcomes all ages, and provides optional childcare. Dinner is catered by Spirit & Soul Catering.