Welcome to the Massey Commission

The Massey Commission - Response to the Grayson Verdict

The Massey Commission is a citizens' commission established in response to the tragic killing of Sonya Massey in Sangamon County, Ill. by a former Sangamon County deputy in July 2024.  This commission is in direct response to thoughtful comments from the community after Sonya's tragic death. The commission is committed to leading a process for the community to listen, learn and act. The commission's public meetings will begin in September 2024 and conclude within 12 months publishing a report with recommendations for a path forward. 

The deaths of Sonya Massey and Earl Moore, Jr., and the harm done to Gregory Small, Jr., at times in which they sought help from public entities, has shaken Sangamon County to its moral core. The people of Sangamon County must now engage in meaningful and sustained actions to address the issues related to these events. The Massey Commission will guide the process to engage the community; to hear, respect and understand all voices; to begin a process to develop mutual trust; to repair fragmented and inequitable systems, and to ensure safety for those in need of help. We will begin the work for equity, justice and fairness in our county.

The Massey Commission's mission is to take action and make recommendations that expand safe and equitable access to services by addressing systemic racism and mistrust in law enforcement and other helping professions.  The commission's core values are Community, Transparency, Equity and Accountability.  Learn more about the values, commissioners and workgroups on the About Us page.

Massey Commission Calls To Action

Truth & Accountability - Face it. Fix it. Never forget

Calls for transparency, acknowledgment, and responsibility across every public system. Truth-telling must become a standard practice, not an emergency response. 

Education & Liberation - When we know better, we become better

Reclaims education as a tool for freedom. Expands opportunity and ensures learning environments nurture agency, critical thinking, and community empowerment.

Access & Belonging - If it’s not for all of us, it’s not justice

Centers equity by removing structural barriers that have excluded too many for too long. Belonging is proven through participation, representation, and fair treatment.

Repair & Investment - Justice is a budget line

Directs resources toward communities historically harmed or ignored. Justice requires investment that is measurable, sustained, and rooted in accountability.CTA #4 – Establish Enhanced Law Enforcement Vetting & Hiring Standards

Safety & Dignity - We are safe when we are seen

Reimagines safety through prevention, care, and shared responsibility. Dignity ensures that every policy and public interaction honors humanity and protects life.


Quick Links

Massey Commission Resolutions


Previous Healing Circles Events

  • Healing circles will be hosted throughout the community, including by:
    • Thrive Center for Wellness, 435 W Washington St.
      • Monday, July 7, 2025:
        • 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.
        • 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
  • Register at the link below. In your registration, please state the date, time, and format you would like to register (in-person or virtual) in the comments.

 Previous Community Events