Represent Justice’s Post

BOOK The New Jim Crow Reprint Edition -The Jim Crow laws were state and local laws introduced in the Southern United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that enforced racial segregation, "Jim Crow" being a pejorative term for an African American. Such laws remained in force until 1965. -As the United States celebrates the nation's "triumph over race" with the election of Barack Obama, the majority of young black men in major American cities are locked behind bars or have been labeled felons for life. -Although Jim Crow laws have been wiped off the books, an astounding percentage of the African American community remains trapped in a subordinate status--much like their grandparents before them. -In this incisive critique, former litigator-turned-legal-scholar Michelle Alexander provocatively argues that we have not ended racial caste in America: we have simply redesigned it. -Alexander shows that, by targeting black men and decimating communities of color, the U.S. criminal justice system functions as a contemporary system of racial control, even as it formally adheres to the principle of color blindness. -The New Jim Crow challenges the civil rights community--and all of us--to place mass incarceration at the forefront of a new movement for racial justice in America. BOOK DETAILS: By Alexander, Michelle The New Jim Crow Reprint Edition Paperback Paperback by Michelle Alexander (Author) ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ B008NQNMNA https://lnkd.in/dTpXK6cj https://lnkd.in/dTpXK6cj

We believe that every community deserves a government that fights for their civil rights. In the post-Roe era, our work is more critical than ever. None of our wins would be possible without our vast network of leaders, fellows, attorneys, advocates, and organizers. Learn more about the people powering PRP in our Annual Impact Report: https://lnkd.in/gw9BdFqX

Terrific to join justice champions at the 2024 Equal Justice Conference to learn more about seminal efforts that give everyone a fair shot at wellbeing. Center for Heirs' Property Preservation in South Carolina builds on assets and addresses policies and practices that undermine people’s ability to accumulate wealth. CHPP helps people keep intergenerational wealth when a family member dies without a will by providing direct legal assistance to clear title to property, mediating family interests, and support with the court process.  According to a 2022 Consumer Reports survey, 77% of Black and 82% of Hispanic Americans lack a will, compared to 61% of White Americans.

“Justice in their hearts, truth in their hands.” These words resonate deeply with the values that drive leaders like Attorney Gerald Griggs and myself. They’re not just lyrics; they’re a reflection of a purpose rooted in family, community, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. In every fight—whether it’s for Jimmy Atchison, Vincent Truitt, or Caine Rogers, or standing beside survivors seeking their voice—we are reminded that our work must always be guided by our "why." For us, it’s simple: we fight because the stakes are too high for us not to. Values are the foundation of any journey, and understanding your purpose gives meaning to the steps you take. For us, family is at the heart of everything. It’s the strength that fuels the long nights, the courage that keeps us showing up, and the legacy we’re building for future generations. This fight is bigger than a single case or moment. It’s about creating a future where justice isn’t an exception but an expectation. It’s about honoring those who paved the way—working alongside the attorney who represented Dr. King and Rosa Parks to challenge voter suppression in Georgia reminds us of that legacy every day. If we truly want to create change, we must remain grounded in our values and committed to the people and principles that matter most. Whether in the courtroom, the ballot box, or the community, the work must reflect our deepest convictions. Let these lyrics be a reminder: When your heart is aligned with your purpose, and your foundation is rooted in values like family and justice, there is no fight too big to win. Let’s keep pushing forward—together. #Leadership #Justice #Purpose #Family #Values

Today marks the 60th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act, a landmark piece of legislation that fundamentally transformed our society. Over the past six decades, we have made significant strides towards equality and justice, breaking down many of the barriers that once divided us. However, while we celebrate these achievements, we must also recognize that there is still much work to be done. Inequities persist, particularly in the realm of policing, where failed personnel policies perpetuate discrimination, bias, and retaliation against police officers of color. These systemic issues not only harm the officers themselves but also erode trust within the communities they serve. Let us honor this anniversary by recommitting ourselves to the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in policing to ensure justice and fairness for all.

Did you know LSC is celebrating 50 years of bridging the justice gap? Our work is impossible without LSC. "We know that 92% of the legal needs of low-income Americans are not being met. This shortfall in providing legal help to people eligible for it is the Justice Gap. America is founded on the promise of equal justice for all. " Learn more at lsc.gov/celebrate50

Learn about the chair of the Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Committee, Senator Stephanie Chang, in our latest feature.

“Justice in their hearts, truth in their hands.” As the year comes to a close, we’ve been reflecting on the importance of values, purpose, and the power of strong working relationships. These lyrics aren’t just words—they’re a reminder of the principles that guide leaders like Attorney Gerald A Griggs, LLC and myself. In every fight—whether it’s for Jimmy Atchison, Vincent Truitt, or Caine Rogers, or standing with survivors seeking justice—we’re reminded that understanding your ‘why’ is essential. For us, our “why” is rooted in family, community, and creating a legacy where justice and equality are more than aspirations—they’re realities. The work we do is deeply personal, but it’s also collaborative. This year has proven again how much working relationships matter. The clients we choose to represent, the colleagues we partner with, and the values they bring to the table are as critical as the common goal we all share. Individual values strengthen the collective mission when they align with purpose and integrity. Standing alongside Gerald, we’ve witnessed how our shared commitment to justice and family has fueled our work—from fighting voter suppression alongside Attorney Fred Gray, who represented Dr. King and Rosa Parks, to advocating for families like the Atchisons and Truitts. These relationships are built on trust, shared values, and a relentless belief in what’s possible. As we move into a new year, let these lyrics and this reflection serve as a reminder: ‘When your heart is aligned with your purpose and your relationships are grounded in mutual values, there is no fight too big to win.’ Here’s to continuing the fight for justice, equity, and a brighter future—together. #Leadership #Purpose #Values #Family #Justice

This election has left many of us feeling uncertain, grappling with fear and the real potential for harm. But we’ve been here before. From the backlash of Jim Crow after Reconstruction to the regressive policies following the Civil Rights Movement, history has shown that progress often faces resistance. At Equal Justice USA, our mission remains unchanged: We envision healing and safety for all, rooted in community care and resilience. As we navigate the challenges ahead, our focus is clear—driving resources into communities, supporting grassroots solutions, and challenging the injustices of the criminal legal system. Together, we can push forward. Join us as we continue building a pathway to safety through care, equity, and community-driven solutions. https://lnkd.in/exZa2nDB

The symbol of justice is often represented by the figure of Lady Justice, who is typically depicted holding a balance scale in one hand and a sword in the other, often wearing a blindfold. The blindfold signifies impartiality and the idea that justice should be administered without bias or favoritism, regardless of the identities or statuses of those involved. When the blindfold of Lady Justice is said to be "opened," it implies a shift towards greater transparency, awareness, and recognition of the complexities involved in justice. This change could take several forms: 1. Increased Awareness: Opening the blindfold may symbolize a heightened awareness of systemic inequalities and biases within the justice system. It suggests that there is a need to recognize and address these issues rather than ignoring them. 2. Transparency: A more open approach to justice could lead to greater transparency in legal proceedings, ensuring that all parties understand the processes and decisions being made. 3. Accountability: Removing the blindfold could imply that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions, and that justice is not only about legal outcomes but also about ethical considerations. 4. Empathy and Understanding: An open blindfold may indicate a move towards understanding the human stories behind legal cases, recognizing the social, economic, and cultural factors that influence justice. 5. Reform: It could also suggest a call for reform in the justice system to make it more equitable and fair for all individuals, especially marginalized groups who may have been overlooked or discriminated against. Overall, opening the blindfold of Lady Justice represents a desire for a more just society where fairness is not just an ideal but a reality, achieved through conscious efforts to address biases and promote equity.