This case brings attention to the overrepresentation of Black girls in the juvenile justice system. It highlights this as a multifaceted issue that requires a nuanced understanding of their unique situation, as well as action oriented solutions that recognize the broader structural systems, and inherent power dynamics, in which they live. Through applying the CRT principles of intersectionality and counter storytelling, these experiences are illuminated and disruption of harmful narratives can occur. Such an approach acknowledges the historical context and systemic biases as well as centering their voices, allowing for policies and practices that are more responsive to their needs.

The case discusses how Black, Indigenous, Latine and Youth of Color (BILYC) and LGBTQQIA2S+ youth are at significantly greater risk for dating violence exposure and subsequent adverse health and social outcomes. The grand challenge of eliminating racism and intersecting oppression cannot be achieved without centering the voices of BILYC, LGBTQQIA2S+ Youth, and Communities of Color as experts in their experiences with racism and oppression and innovators in strategies for ending structural and institutional inequities. By advancing the voices of those who are marginalized, social workers promote a sense of mattering through validation, authentic care for the dignity and worth of those they are serving, and an expressed commitment to the advancement of Communities of Color and communities that are marginalized.

The case discusses the CRT tenet of advancing the voices of the marginalized. It addresses how the dominant narratives in community development practice suggest that Indigenous communities have high rates of social problems, but few strengths. This deficit-based lens ignores the perspectives of people of color and does not acknowledge their assets, resources, and cultural wealth. By centering the voice of Indigenous individuals, in this case, Native Hawaiians, āina-based (land-based) community building provides an innovative and powerful approach to strengths-based practice. Culture-centered interventions and counter storytelling are crucial in advancing the voices of the marginalized and implementing meaningful and effective interventions for Indigenous communities and organizations.