A Life-Changing Experience at the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, AL

Visiting the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, AL was a life-changing experience. Located in the historic Deep South, the EJI seeks to bring about equal justice for all, regardless of race or social class. The initiative works tirelessly to end mass incarceration and excessive punishment, to protect basic human rights, and to challenge racial and economic injustice. Through its work in Montgomery, AL and across the United States, the EJI is working to make the world a more equitable place.

The mission of the EJI

The Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1989 by Bryan Stevenson with the goal of providing legal representation to those who have been denied justice or been unfairly treated by the criminal justice system. The organization works to end mass incarceration, seek justice for the incarcerated and exonerate innocent people, challenge racial and economic injustice, and protect basic human rights for the most vulnerable members of society. 

The EJI is headquartered in Montgomery, Alabama, and has offices in various cities across the United States. Through its educational programs, public policy initiatives, advocacy, litigation, and organizing efforts, the EJI has become a powerful voice for justice and an important advocate for social justice reform. 

In addition to advocating for systemic changes within the criminal justice system, the EJI also operates a Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice which seeks to help people understand the history of racial inequality in America. The museum features interactive exhibits that explore slavery, lynching, segregation, and other forms of racial terror throughout American history. Additionally, the museum features a memorial dedicated to victims of racial terror which serves as a solemn reminder of the legacy of slavery and racism.

What I did while I was there

My visit to the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) in Montgomery, AL was a life-changing experience. During my time there, I had the opportunity to explore the museum and memorials dedicated to the history of racial injustice in the United States. In particular, I learned about the history of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and lynching in America. The museum was a powerful experience that brought to life the stories of those who suffered in our nation's history. 

I also toured the Legacy Museum, which brings to light the stories of those affected by mass incarceration. It was inspiring to see how the EJI is striving to create a more equitable justice system for all.

I then visited the Peace Justice Memorial Garden, which commemorates victims of racial terror lynchings throughout the country. The memorial was an incredibly emotional experience, as I reflected on the long and painful history of oppression experienced by African Americans in this country.

Overall, my time at the EJI was an eye-opening and powerful experience. Seeing first-hand the horrors of racial injustice in America gave me a deeper understanding of why we need to continue fighting for equality and justice in this country.

How it affected me

Visiting the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) in Montgomery, AL was an eye-opening experience. Walking around the memorials and exhibits honoring African Americans killed by lynching left me feeling a deep sense of grief, sorrow, and sadness. It also left me feeling determined and hopeful to work for equality and justice.

The EJI is dedicated to challenging the criminal justice system, reforming laws that have been used to perpetrate injustice, and protecting basic human rights for all. I was profoundly inspired by the strength and resilience of African Americans who endured unimaginable horrors and yet managed to persevere. It made me think deeply about my own privilege and how I could use it to help others. 

The EJI also serves as a powerful reminder of our shared history. We must never forget the pain and suffering experienced by those who came before us and continue to face discrimination today. By learning about our past, we can create a better future for all people. After my visit to the EJI, I felt a greater sense of responsibility to work towards a more just and equitable world.