In addition to radically transforming the way that people are represented in the justice system, The Bronx Defenders works to transform the system itself. Our proximity to the justice system and what our clients experience on a daily basis places us on the front lines in the fight for fairness, justice, and equality. This provides us with the knowledge to not only identify the problems but to spearhead systemic solutions.
Community Organizing
Community organizing at The Bronx Defenders is grounded in the understanding that the people best suited to transform the justice systems are those directly impacted by them. Our Organizing Project builds a grassroots base in which clients and community members can access the tools they need to advocate for themselves, build power, and move to collective action. Our organizers facilitate opportunities for leadership development and civic engagement, like presenting at community forums and town halls. We also build connections within and between diverse communities and foster relationships with key allies, stakeholders, and leaders. To get involved with Community Organizing, contact Carmen Piñeiro.
Impact Litigation
Attorneys in our Impact Litigation Practice collaborate with all other practice areas at The Bronx Defenders to litigate challenges to systemic violations and injustices that affect larger groups of our clients. We have successfully challenged stop-and-frisk policing tactics that are racially-discriminatory, government seizure of property, unequal access to housing and employment, curtailment of parental rights in family court proceedings, and immigration abuses. Learn more about Impact Litigation.
Policy Advocacy
Policy experts collaborate closely with our practices and community organizing team so that our reform efforts are a comprehensive reflection of what Bronx residents need. Our policy advocacy includes developing solutions to presenting injustices, coalition-building, public speaking and writing, legislative drafting and consultation, lobbying, media advocacy, testifying before legislative bodies, and serving on governmental and bar committees and task forces.
Learn more about our Forfeiture on the Frontlines Campaign and our Bail Reform Initiative and watch our City Council testimonies.
Read our detailed 2024 policy agenda.
Learn about our civic engagement work with Voting is Power!