Bryan Stevenson

Bryan Stevenson is a renowned lawyer, social justice advocate, and author, best known for his tireless efforts to combat racial inequality and reform the criminal justice system in the United States. As the founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), Stevenson has dedicated his career to representing marginalized communities, challenging wrongful convictions, and confronting systemic injustices.

Born in 1959 in Milton, Delaware, Stevenson grew up in a segregated community, an experience that profoundly shaped his commitment to justice. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Eastern University, followed by a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard Kennedy School and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School.

In 1989, Stevenson established EJI in Montgomery, Alabama, an organization focused on providing legal representation to those who have been wrongfully convicted, denied fair trials, or sentenced to death. Under his leadership, EJI has won significant victories, including exonerations of death row inmates and reforms addressing juvenile incarceration and racial bias in sentencing.

Stevenson gained international recognition with his bestselling memoir, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, which chronicles his legal battles and sheds light on the human stories behind systemic injustices. The book was adapted into a critically acclaimed film in 2019, further amplifying his message of hope and resilience.

In addition to his legal work, Stevenson has played a pivotal role in creating the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum, both of which confront America’s history of racial injustice and its ongoing consequences.

Stevenson’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including the MacArthur Fellowship and the ABA Medal. A sought-after speaker, he inspires audiences worldwide to believe in the power of hope and the necessity of justice. Stevenson continues to lead EJI and advocate for equality and dignity for all.