In September 2021, we lost our co-founder, Michael K. Williams. Many will remember Mike for his acting talent – lifting up overlooked voices through iconic characters. For those of us in his community in New York City and across the country, Mike’s impact went beyond the screen. He was a leader, an activist, and a source of hope and healing for everyone.

In everything Mike did, he brought his entire heart and presence. He never pandered to those in power but went straight to the people creating change on the ground. He spoke directly with officers, youth, incarcerated people, and organizers – most often with no cameras, no audience, no press. He wanted to understand the problems and help fight for a solution. He knew listening was the first step to liberation.

The impact he made is almost impossible to capture. We can’t count the hours spent on the street, speaking to leaders, educating himself on the issues, and lifting our network up with his influence and vision. Working directly with precincts in his community, Mike brought together members of the NYPD, clergy members, community leaders, and young people to lead a cultural shift towards healing and respect.

Mike listened with empathy, spoke with love, and fought for justice. He would often tell our youth about the expectation to leave his community behind as his fame grew. But Mike never left. He kept his feet in Vanderveer and Brooklyn for all these years. He saw his potential in our youth, saw his struggles in our neighbors, and saw a better future by bringing us all together.

Mike has not left our community. He continues to bring us together and make us better. While we’ve lost the heart of our organization, we continue this work with his spirit at our back.