Our Purpose

Hear from our Executive Director, Nancy A. Parker, and other team members about the Detroit Justice Center and why members of our team are committed to this work. Shot by 888 Creative, this video aims to introduce you to DJC.

DJC is founded on the belief that we cannot build cities that work for everyone without remedying the impacts of mass incarceration. This mission requires innovative ways of community lawyering—rooted in defensive and offensive fights for racial justice and economic equity—that build up our poorest residents through direct services and novel approaches to land use, housing, and employment. We use a three-pronged approach—what we call “defense, offense, and dreaming”—to serve individual clients, build power, and catalyze systemic solutions.

What’s Happening at DJC

Reflections on the Present Moment: MLK Day 2026

As we enter into this new year, we are taking time for our anger and...
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Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib introducing the bill wearing a green cardigan

DJC Backs Tlaib’s Body Cam Paywall Bill

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) introduced the Stop Body Camera Paywalls Act to prevent local and state governments from...
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A yellow and green image of two Black women making paper with the text 2026-27 Formerly Incarcerated Artist in Residence

Announcing the 2026 DJC Formerly Incarcerated Artist Residency

Announcing our 2026 Formerly Incarcerated Artist Residency open to all formerly incarcerated artists in Michigan.
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Flyer for the Reform Drug Policy Conference

Community care is the answer to Detroit’s overdose crisis

Read our joint op-ed with the Drug Policy Alliance about our collaboration for the Reform...
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National Estate Planning Awareness Week

For many of us, the term “estate planning” brings up uncomfortable feelings. The majority of...
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