The Carceral Accountability Council (CAC) was recently honored with the Faith Into Action Award by Kansas Interfaith Action (KIFA) during its annual “Creating the Movement” event on June 2, 2026, at Johnson County Community College.
Ashley Hernandez, Organizing and Policy Coordinator for the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Office of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation, accepted the award on behalf of the CAC.
KIFA presents the Faith Into Action Award to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated sustained commitment to justice-centered advocacy and community action. The CAC was formed in 2025 in response to plans to reopen the CoreCivic facility in Leavenworth as an ICE detention center.
Since its formation, the CAC has collaborated with local and statewide organizations, including KIFA, to organize vigils, rallies, protests, and advocacy efforts focused on transparency, human dignity, and accountability within the prison system.
In remarks by Sister Therese Bangert, SCL, during the award presentation, the CAC was recognized for continuing its work even after the detention facility was approved to reopen.
“While the battle to stop the reopening of the prison was lost, the battle to protect human dignity had just begun,” Sister Therese said.
The presentation also highlighted the CAC’s efforts to advocate for detainees and their families, improve visibility into detention conditions, and encourage community involvement through education and volunteer outreach.
Following the event, the CAC shared its gratitude on social media, noting that the award reflects “the tireless dedication of our volunteers, supporters, and partners” and thanking those who continue to support the organization’s mission.
The CAC continues to advocate for prison systems that prioritize safety, dignity, and visibility for all people impacted by incarceration.
More information about the CAC’s current advocacy efforts is available through the Carceral Accountability Council website: https://carceralaccountabilitycouncil.org/
In the photo above, L-R: Rabbi Moti Reiber, Ashley Hernandez, Caitlin Hammett, Erin Adams, Justin Young, and Sister Therese Bangert
Sources:
Kansas Interfaith Action Facebook Page
