Ford Fdtn: Reimaginng Justice in the 21st C with Eric Holder & Carl Lewis

I was privilleged to amongst the guests present to hear a distinguished panel of guests at the Ford Fdtn address the issues of social justice in the 21st C, what has brought us here and what we can do to combat injustice and complacency.  The program was being broadcast live and is available for viewing.  Darren Walker, Pres of the Ford Fdtn welcomed everyone  and was forthright in comments:  "We cannont afford to disconnect injustices rooted in race, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or religion.  We must build bridges between efforts to fight for equality and human dignity."  Eric Holder, former US Atty Gen. was interviewed by Ari Berman, journalist for "The Nation" and author of "Give Us the Ballot."  The honorable Congressman John Lewis was also present.  Mr Holder paid homage to Mr Lewis.  Both distinguished guests pressed upon the necessity to "make noise and be disruptive."  It's imperative to note the Voting Rights Act (VRA) passed in 1965, a major turning point in the civil rights movement is now contending with restrictions contravening voters' liberties.  Between 2001-13, 180 restrictions were issued to section 5 of the VRA resulting in increased gerrymandering, identification requirements and reassigned polling locations.  Mr Holder allows progress has been achieved and owing a great deal to individuals like Cong Lewis who were subjected to brutality in response to peaceful civil rights protests.  Mr Holder conceded to a galvanized backlash resulting from Obama's presidency & his appointment as US Atty Gen.  Holder addressed the need to reform sentencing for non-violent drug offenders and his dismay with the mass incarceration of men of color and its destructive impact.   Holder advocated for drug rehabilitation and employment opportunities.  He stated movements need to establish concrete demands.  Mr Holder called us "a nation of cowards for not discussing race." "Our changing demographics is our strength.  We are not a homogenous nation."  How shall we combine our diverse voices in the pursuit of equality for all?  In part, by embracing our diversities, voting, battling complacency & injustice and making lots of noise.