Our vision: The Ella Baker Center’s membership is a way for anyone, anywhere—especially those who have been harmed by the justice system—to join the movement to create a truly safe and just nation. Like our namesake Ella Baker, we believe in the power of ordinary people to create change and community-driven solutions.

We know police do not keep us safe. We work to defund the police, to reinvest in community solutions that bring true public safety. In a world where resources are invested in growth and support instead of punishment and prisons we will all be able to reach our full potential. Communities with more opportunity for everyone are safer, healthier, and more just for all.

Members of the Ella Baker Center believe that every person has the right to dignity, safety, self-determination, and equality, and share a commitment to building the power and leadership of incarcerated people, formerly incarcerated people, victims and survivors of law enforcement abuse, and their families.