The Promise of Justice Initiative

Promise of Justice Initiative fights for the dignity, freedom, and autonomy of those targeted and touched by the criminal legal system and for an end to mass incarceration. We are building a better world -- a world where justice means a legal system that embodies an ethos of transformation, restoration, and safety, and values community, family, dreams, and joy as part of Black life and all life. We believe that a better world is possible. We believe in the promise of justice.

Because racism and mass incarceration are entrenched and pervasive, PJI's approach is multifaceted, including collective action, legislative advocacy, civil and criminal litigation, direct support, and reframing narrative discourse.

We build power and reshape systems through policy change, coalition building, educating stakeholders, and centering the experiences of impacted communities. We use civil and strategic criminal litigation to gain rights, win freedom, and put pressure on Louisiana's massive carceral system. We support clients and families by organizing family visits, providing financial support, and bridging the challenges of incarceration. We use storytelling to challenge narratives and shed light onto racist and unjust systems that thrive in the shadows.

PJI is a dynamic organization that is adept at evolving to meet the demands of our current moment. We are focused on ending slavery in Louisiana through our End Plantation Prisons campaign, fighting for retroactivity for people incarcerated by unconstitutional non-unanimous jury verdicts through our Jim Crow Juries project, and abolishing the death penalty.

Testimonials

"Keep up the work. Your work has given hope to lots of incarcerated individuals."

"People in prison should be compensated fairly for their labor. We stand behind PJI's efforts to end prison plantations."

"I will continue to donate on behalf of my mother … and other[s] that have been incarcerated over 40 years. Thank you PJI for all you have done."

"This donation is in honor of a friend who spent almost 3 decades in solitary in Louisiana."

"Thank you for protecting our brothers & sisters."