Embracing Redemptive Activism: My Journey to Unite Communities

Independent Sector’s Bridging Fellows program, supported by IS Member Walmart, offers community leaders space, skills, and resources needed to socialize and embed bridge building as a core competency in their organizations and communities. Intended for leaders whose work places local communities at the core, the program focuses on bridging specific areas of division, including ideological, racial, socioeconomic, and geographical.

In a world brimming with divisions and discord, my story stands as a testament to the transformative power of redemption and understanding. As the CEO and President of Urban Specialists, I’ve walked a path from a troubled past to a place where I bridge divides and foster meaningful connections. My journey has culminated in the development of “Redemptive Activism,” a philosophy that seeks to heal even the deepest wounds within our society.

Urban Specialists, the organization I lead today, was founded 24 years ago by my mentor and partner in the work, Bishop Omar Jahwar. Our mission to break down barriers that would ultimately disrupt trends of violence seemed insurmountable— reconcile rival gangs, bridge political chasms, and empower communities through education and opportunity.

Central to my approach is the concept that dismantling divides necessitates finding common ground amid differences. This concept crystallized into the philosophy I now call “Redemptive Activism.” It’s a framework that acknowledges the existence of contrasting viewpoints without condemning those who hold them. Instead, it offers a space where open dialogue can flourish, enabling individuals to express their perspectives while working together towards shared objectives.

My own transformation began during my time in prison, confined to a cell but liberated by introspection. As I grappled with the roots of my flawed thinking, a desire to improve myself took root. It was from this internal journey that a spark ignited within me—an unwavering passion to guide others toward positive change, just as I had experienced.

Today, my lived experience and this philosophy have been woven into the fabric of Urban Specialists. Under my leadership, we’ve embraced a principled approach to fostering unity within communities. We emphasize shared values, embrace the truth that everyone is worthy of redemption, and tackle divisive issues with empathy and understanding—qualities often absent from contemporary discourse.

Studies show that communities with effective community policing strategies have experienced a 30% decrease in violent crime rates and a 20% decrease in property crime rates over a five-year period. Moreover, surveys reveal that 85% of citizens believe community policing improves overall safety and trust between law enforcement and the community. As such, a signature part of the way that we seek to transform communities is through intentional relationship-building with law enforcement on all levels. One key element of such a collaboration is the ability to call all stakeholders to a great level of truth and accountability in an effort to build authentic trust.

In fact, part of my most fulfilling work lies in mending relationships pushed to the brink of rupture. Having once stood on opposite sides of the law, I now train police agencies and officers in the intricacies of genuine community policing. My collaboration with Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia exemplifies the transformative power of intentional partnership. Our shared journey proves that even individuals from seemingly disparate backgrounds can unite for the greater good of their community.

In an era marked by deep divisions, my personal odyssey from prisoner to bridge-builder offers invaluable lessons. My commitment to change, coupled with my belief in the power of dialogue, resonates as a testament to human resilience. Through Urban Specialists, I’m reminded daily that the road to unity begins with recognizing our shared humanity and promoting empathy. In a world often defined by challenges, I stand as an embodiment of how an individual’s dedication can catalyze positive change, reverberating far beyond the boundaries of any single community.

I am thankful to Independent Sector for helping me deepen my impact around bridging divides. This work allows me to help those individuals often marked as the problem find within themselves ways to use their unique experiences to bridge divides.

Redemption Activism begins by acknowledging any and everything is afforded the opportunity to be redeemed. It is this pronouncement that is the beginning of real bridge work. Bridge work is needed to unite communities.