Kim Kardashian Advocates for Justice Reform at DVF Awards
On March 14, 2024, Kim Kardashian received the prestigious DVF Award in Venice for her advocacy in prison reform. The event, hosted by renowned designer Diane von Furstenberg, provided Kardashian a platform to discuss pressing issues within the U.S. justice system, particularly criticizing former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Kardashian Speaks Out on Immigration and Justice Reform
During a roundtable with journalists ahead of the awards ceremony, Kardashian addressed the ongoing raids conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the United States. “In the news, you hear, ‘Oh, it’s about people who have committed these crimes,’” she stated. “But then you hear about all of the people who have worked so hard to build our country, and so many people that are such a part of our country getting affected.” She emphasized the personal connections she has to those impacted, stating, “People I know. People my friends know.”
Kardashian highlighted the importance of protecting those who contribute positively to society. “You want to believe that there’s a powerful message in protection, but then you see that it’s not really happening like that,” she noted. “It’s really tough, but I think that we have to do what we can to protect the people that have really supported and built our country.”
Known for her commitment to criminal justice reform, Kardashian has been a vocal advocate for several years. Chris Young, who presented the award to her, is one of the individuals she successfully helped free from a life sentence. Young was sentenced to life in prison for a non-violent drug offense and served 11 years before his sentence was commuted by Trump in 2021.
Continuing Advocacy for Justice
Kardashian’s efforts extend beyond Young. She has also called for the release of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who are serving life sentences for the murder of their parents in 1989. When asked if she plans to return to the White House to advocate for prison reform, she expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I would go to any administration and any White House to fight for the rights of people I believe in.”
Young, now a graduate of Southern Methodist University (SMU) and an author, shared his gratitude for Kardashian’s support. “Compassion is different from empathy, because compassion has action,” he remarked, referencing a quote from the late rapper Tupac Shakur to underline the importance of respecting women who lead. Von Furstenberg responded positively, affirming, “Compassion is action. I’m going to use that.”
In her acceptance speech, Kardashian reflected on the significance of the evening, stating, “The real honor tonight isn’t me receiving this award, it’s seeing you standing here free.” She reiterated her commitment to prison reform, particularly following her completion of a law degree earlier in 2024. “Chris’ potential, his humanity, lit a fire in me. It showed me that this work is not just about changing laws, but about saving lives,” she concluded.
Kardashian emphasized the need for systemic change to restore hope and provide individuals with fair opportunities after incarceration. The DVF Awards honored several other advocates, including Christy Turlington Burns, for her foundation Every Mother Counts, and Hanin Ahmed, a Sudanese activist.
As the event began, Von Furstenberg declared the theme of the night as “victory over oppression,” underscoring the importance of recognizing the courageous efforts of women fighting for justice. “In this moment of chaos and darkness in the world, it is more important than ever to focus on finding the light,” she urged.
Kardashian’s continued activism underscores her dedication to creating awareness and fostering discussions around critical issues in the justice system, aiming to inspire changes that benefit those impacted by incarceration.
