The Michigan Liberation Board of Directors has named Rai Lanier the new executive director of Michigan Liberation.
Lanier’s background in the criminal justice nonprofit industry, combined with a deep passion for ending mass incarceration, will help to further advance the mission of the organization. “We are thrilled to welcome Rai as our new executive director,” said Rev. Kevin L. Harris, Michigan Liberation Board of Directors President. “The board’s decision to elevate Rai LaNier is in keeping with the spirit, culture, and commitment that has been established at Michigan Liberation.
Lanier has earned the respect of her peers, established credibility in the justice advocacy community, and maintains relationships throughout the country that will allow the organization to remain at the forefront of reform in Michigan. She is the right choice at this time for Michigan Liberation.”
Lanier assumed the role on February 4, she will manage all day-to-day operations for the criminal justice organization, known for its bailouts and grassroots organizing methods. Lanier will also lead fundraising programs, as well as community engagement initiatives.
“I am beyond excited about this new opportunity,” said Rai Lanier. “I believe Michigan Liberation has the passion and talent to change the state’s current narrative of the criminal legal system in a deeply transformative way. I was there when Michigan Liberation was first created and developed. Centering the leadership development of formerly incarcerated and directly impacted people have always been at the core of what we do, and will remain so. Michigan Liberation is an uncomplicated reflection of myself, my community, and the community we are trying to build.”
Lanier is a co-founding member of Michigan Liberation and has served as the Wayne Director since the conception of the organization. She has also been instrumental in the fundraising efforts and donor engagement for Michigan Liberation. She attended Alma College in Alma, MI for her undergraduate studies.
Lanier will oversee the remainder of the organization’s 2022 fiscal year. “We have every confidence that Rai will bring a firm commitment to excellence, the hallmark of our organization,” said Tim Christensen, Michigan Liberation Organizer. “Michigan Liberation continues to move forward as a vibrant and important staple of grassroots organizing and community engagement in the Detroit metro community. With our new Executive Director in place, the organization can continue its mission of ending mass incarceration, and empowering community members and families impacted by the criminal justice system.”
Located in the Detroit metro area, Michigan Liberation is a statewide organization that works to end mass incarceration and mass policing through campaigns and the leadership development of those directly impacted by the criminal legal system. Michigan Liberation was formed in 2018 and conducts grassroots organizing, lobbying, and supports candidates that share their vision for the state of Michigan.
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