They treat us like robots
The second artwork ‘They treat us like robots’ illustrates young people’s main priority in terms of making change. Young people recognised they had positive interactions and experiences with youth justice staff. Despite this, the experience of being incarcerated and the rules and processes involved is one of disempowerment, distrust and oppression. Young people mentioned they often feel that they are not listened too, not taken seriously, or that there is always a rule or someone saying no. Young people want to be able to trust staff to keep their word and advocate for them.