We are calling on Governor  Murphy and all decision-makers to grant clemency to Maria Montalvo, a woman who has turned her time in confinement into a mission for justice. Maria has become a paralegal, a scholar, and a tireless advocate for others, using her voice to fight for the wrongfully convicted and bring awareness to the unique struggles of women of color in the criminal justice system.

Her dedication, growth, and service to others show that she is not only rehabilitated, she is a vital force for change. It is time to bring Maria home so she can continue her work, pursue her law degree, and reunite with her community.

"I have worked as a prison paralegal here within the institution over the course of my confinement and recently graduated from Rutgers University with a Justice Studies degree, Summa cum Laude. I am interested in pursuing a Juris Doctor degree for two reasons. I enjoy working on old cases deemed seemingly hopeless like mine and also obtaining more knowledge in order to challenge procedural bars that are currently limiting incarcerated persons from obtaining relief.

I have utilized my confinement to assist many others to capture the attention of the Office of the Public Defender after exhausting their initial appeal processes. I am currently working on how to cause the system to recognize the significance of intersectionality, how it affects women of color, and how to obtain attention for the wrongfully convicted to be assisted before serving decades of confinement unjustly."

Maria is ready to return home and continue making an impact in the world. Please join us in supporting her clemency.