NEW ORLEANS – Earlier this month, District Attorney Jason Williams, in partnership with Maroon, hosted “Black Women Securing Justice: A Conversation on Representation and Empowerment.” Hosted at Maroon, the conversation was purposed around highlighting the Black female experience in prosecution, discussing the importance of diversity in the criminal legal system, and inspiring the next generation of Black female prosecutors.
“This panel of Black female chief prosecutors was dynamic and showcased the power and necessity of diversity in the criminal legal system. Whether it is working tirelessly to secure convictions for victims and survivors or fighting to build a criminal legal system that serves all people, these chief prosecutors have proven their commitment to safety and justice,” said District Attorney Jason Williams. “The experience of a Black woman is something that can’t be taught or bought. Each of their respective cities is blessed to have them at the helm because they are a great marriage of education, tenacity, and life experience. They also clearly understand the importance of increasing safety and being fair, and how those two things are not antithetical. Through their passion and confidence, they are inspiring the next generation of Black girls to believe in themselves and pursue careers in public service.”
Maroon Founder Jade Brown Russell said, “Maroon was created to be a home for changemakers to foster innovation, collaborate with like-minded people, and embrace equity. This incredibly influential conversation highlighting the experience of Black female leaders in the criminal legal system epitomized the purpose of this space. We are glad to have partnered with DA Jason Williams for this purposeful moment; everyone left motivated and ready to continue fighting for fairness and justice.”
Moderated by DA Williams, the panel included DeKalb County (Georgia) DA Sherry Boston, Cook County (Illinois) State’s Attorney Kimberly Foxx, Chatham County (Georgia) DA Shalena Cook Jones, and 9th Judicial Circuit (Florida) State Attorney Monique Worrell.
Cook County, Illinois State’s Attorney Kimberly Foxx said, “It was powerful to have the opportunity to speak alongside chief Black women prosecutors from across the country. Unrelenting optimism is why I sit here today as the first Black woman elected as the Cook County State’s Attorney. While there are many reasons to feel dismayed in light of current affairs, these moments also create opportunities for change and I know that unapologetic hope, mobilization and strategy will bring about the changes that the community demands.”
DeKalb County, Georgia District Attorney Sherry Boston said, “What an honor to have been included in this powerful conversation alongside such a dynamic panel of African-American female District Attorneys. Beyond the dialogue, we are committed to transforming our communities and creating a positive impact on the criminal justice system by using our authority and discretion wisely. Representation truly matters.”
9th Judicial Circuit of Florida State Attorney Monique Worrell said, “What an honor to join my brother and sisters in the law to discuss transformational conversations about representation and empowerment of our communities. It is inspiring to work alongside colleagues who understand the importance of coming together collectively as a community to start the process of breaking down each barrier to progress in the jurisdictions we serve daily. We will not rest until we have created a society and criminal legal system that we can all believe in, and be proud of.”
For a recap of the dynamic panel discussion, click here or below.
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