The African American Policy Forum

08/20/2026

It’s been almost 3 weeks since AAPF went to Montgomery for our 3rd Annual Democracy Defenders Summit and we’re still thinking about it ❤️

From powerful conversations to unforgettable moments with democracy defenders from across the country, this year’s summit reminded us what’s possible when we come together. Here’s a look back at some of our favorite moments from an incredible week.

And stay tuned! For those who joined us in Montgomery, and for those who are interested in the work, we’ll be coming back together virtually in September for a recap on the work, the movement, and what’s next.

We can’t wait to continue the conversation and keep building together.

08/15/2026

In the aftermath of the tragic death of Jason Arday, we must also confront the broader pattern in which Black people in positions of authority are subjected to disproportionate public scrutiny, humiliation, and scapegoating—particularly when their lives and work become convenient targets in right-wing culture wars. These episodes are rarely just about the individual; they are part of a larger struggle over whether Black people are permitted to occupy positions of authority and full participation in public life.

The extraordinary attention devoted to Arday’s case, especially in the British media, stands in stark contrast to the treatment of comparable allegations involving white academics, including cases at Cambridge. That disparity should prompt serious reflection about whose mistakes become national scandals, whose reputations are destroyed, and whose humanity is afforded the benefit of the doubt.

Jason Arday deserved better in life, and he deserves better in death. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, students, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched

08/14/2026

African American Policy Forum is on Martha’s Vineyard for our annual residency!

Come meet with our staff and Executive Director Kimberle Crenshaw Monday evening for an intimate conversation among friends and allies about the work our organization is doing—plus an exclusive opportunity to secure a signed copy of Professor Crenshaw’s memoir, !

Link in bio to RSVP.

08/06/2026

As we acknowledge the anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, we must continue the fight to and defend our multiracial democracy for generations to come.

08/04/2026

Some more reflections from our time in Montgomery. Thank you AFT for your support and to the members like Aisha Cook who joined us last week to discuss our ❤️✊🏾

08/04/2026

A week ago, AAPF landed in Montgomery, Alabama, and partnered with Equal Justice Initiative at the The Legacy Sites for our 3rd Annual Democracy Defenders Summit: Legacy, Literacy, and Liberation.

Over the course of the week, we convened scholars, advocates, educators, lawyers, organizers, and changemakers from across the country to engage in meaningful conversations about protecting our multiracial democracy. Together, we exchanged strategies, shared resources, learned from one another, and explored how history can inform the work of building a more just and equitable future.

It was a powerful week of learning, collaboration, and community and a reminder that defending democracy requires all of us.

A special thank you again to Bryan Stevenson and Equal Justice Initiative for partnering with us and helping make this incredible convening possible. We are grateful for your leadership, vision, and partnership

08/01/2026

Thank you to Amir Badat for joining us this week. Your work at Fair Fight Action is exactly the kind of courageous, principled leadership we need at a moment when our multiracial democracy is under attack. Grateful for your partnership and for the fight to protect the freedom to vote and ensure every voice is heard.

07/31/2026

Artivism has always been at the forefront of our work at AAPF, and two nights ago, we had the privilege of seeing that mission come alive in Montgomery through the power of art, storytelling, and community.

A heartfelt thank you to Lisa Arrindell, Awoye Timpo, Devon Carbado and Bjorn DuPaty for helping to create such an unforgettable and inspiring evening. Your generosity and vision reminded us that art is not only a reflection of our world—it is also a force that can challenge injustice, spark conversation and build solidarity. We can’t thank you enough.

At AAPF, we believe that history, art and organizing are deeply intertwined. Moments like these create space for us to connect across experiences, imagine new possibilities and recommit ourselves to the work of advancing justice together.

We are so grateful to everyone who joined us, shared in the experience and helped make the night so meaningful. We look forward to continuing these conversations and building community through the transformative power of art.

07/30/2026

“I believe that the Equal Justice Initiative and Bryan Stevenson have built a justice ecosystem.”

— AAPF Mellon Scholar Stephanie Jones

The second day of out summit began at the Legacy Museum, where we walked through the history of enslavement to mass incarceration. The experience did and will continue to challenge us to confront difficult truths!

Comment below any questions you have about the The Legacy Sites

07/30/2026