(Harris County, TX – June 10, 2025) - The Harris County Office of Administration is proud to announce that Dr. christian h. bijoux, a nationally recognized voice in youth justice and systems change, will serve as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Mindful Justice Conference, taking place June 17–18 at the Houston Food Bank.
Dr. bijoux is the Deputy Director of Community Development and Enhancement at the Center for Juvenile Justice Reform at
Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy. With nearly two decades of experience across the public, nonprofit, and academic sectors, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in building more responsive and effective justice systems. His work has focused on supporting local, state, and federal agencies in addressing racial disparities, strengthening youth justice strategies, and improving community outcomes.
“The justice system can only move forward by recognizing the critical role that communities play in shaping safer, healthier environments,” said Dr. christian bijoux. “This conference is an opportunity to bring people together to learn, listen, and build practical solutions that reflect the experiences and needs of those most impacted.”
The keynote will help set the stage for two days of learning and dialogue at the Mindful Justice Conference, which explores alternative paths beyond traditional justice practices. This year’s theme, “Envisioning the Community as Co-Producers of Safety and Justice,” focuses on the role of community leadership and collaboration in shaping public safety.
Organized by the Harris County Office of County Administration, the conference will offer an inclusive space to:
- Learn from leading researchers, practitioners, and community leaders;
- Share effective strategies and practices for reducing system involvement;
- Examine the role of diversion programs, alternatives to incarceration, and credible messengers;
- Build cross-sector connections that support long-term systems improvement.
“We are proud to host this important conference, which reflects Harris County’s commitment to finding practical, community-informed approaches to justice,” said Jesse Dickerman, Interim County Administrator, Harris County Office of Administration. “By creating opportunities for open dialogue and collaboration, we hope to support ideas and actions that reduce harm and increase well-being across all communities.”
The event will feature expert panels, storytelling, interactive workshops, and data-informed sessions that highlight innovative and actionable practices.
About the Mindful Justice Conference:Hosted by the Harris County Office of County Administration and partners, the annual Mindful Justice Conference brings together justice-impacted communities, researchers, and system leaders to co-create solutions that address disparities in the legal system. The conference centers innovation, equity, and healing as pillars of long-term safety and community well-being.