PJI Statement of Solidarity

The Prisons and Justice Initiative (PJI) was founded to examine and combat mass incarceration—a system that is deeply and painfully intertwined with this country’s history of racial inequity. At its core, PJI is an organization that promotes human dignity, amplifies the voices of directly impacted populations, and encourages society to grapple with complex systemic issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. As our country is confronted with the realities of its shameful past and present, our identity remains the same.

Our team stands in solidarity with our local communities and the nation at large as we mourn the losses of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Tony McDade, and far too many black and brown members of our community. We denounce these and all racist acts of violence and hatred. We denounce police brutality and all forms of state-sanctioned violence. We denounce the unchecked displays of white supremacy and the institutions that normalize and encourage such behavior. 

As a team, we are committed to using our power and privilege to fight systemic racism and white supremacy wherever we may encounter it. We support the assertion of our constitutional right to peacefully protest and organize. We will be guided by directly impacted populations, as we center the voices and experiences of our black and brown brothers and sisters. We will not be silent.

We encourage you to do the same—say their names, call out acts of racism, challenge family members and friends, and do your part to ensure that freedom and justice can truly be enjoyed by all.

In solidarity, 
The PJI Team