The Last Loophole: Amending State Constitutions to Abolish Slavery & Involuntary Servitude

More than 150 years after chattel slavery, a loophole still exists in many state constitutions: language that permits slavery or involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. This panel examines the growing movement to confront and close this loophole by amending state constitutions to fully and unequivocally abolish slavery.

24th Annual State Criminal Justice Network Conference
October 9-10, 2025 | Held Virtually

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This discussion explores the historical roots of the exception clause, its modern-day implications in prison labor and mass incarceration, and the legal and advocacy strategies being used to advance constitutional amendments at the state level.

Speakers
  • Dennis Febo, Lead Organizer, Abolish Slavery National Network
  • Max Parthas, National Campaign Coordinator, Abolish Slavery National Network
  • Jacqueline Goodman, Attorney, The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman (moderator)

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