Media & Legal Articles
WRBLSA members are accomplished scholars with various talents and a passion for professional excellence and cultural awareness. Send all legal articles to wrblsa.communications@nblsa.org for approval and posting.
By Precious Alannah Lockitt-Turner
Throughout American history, every moment of Black progress has been met with swift and calculated backlash. The same systems that once legally upheld slavery, Jim Crow and segregation have not disappeared; they have evolved. These systems manifest in new ways today, including the coordinated attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
By Precious Alannah Lockitt-Turner
Shortly after the 13th Amendment was ratified, the Black Codes laws were enacted to restrict the rights of Black Americans. These codes made it illegal for Black people to engage in activities that were legal for whites, such as voting, being homeless or unemployed, traveling or owning property. When Black individuals were arrested for minor offenses, they could be forced into prison labor as a form of punishment, effectively re-establishing a form of slavery. This provided a legal justification for the convict leasing system, where prisoners were rented out to private businesses and forced to work under harsh conditions. Thus, the Black Codes laid the groundwork for the prison-industrial complex that emerged in the 20th century. The perpetuation of forced labor in prisons today is a modern manifestation of this historical injustice.
Voyage Phoenix Magazine
In addition to legal work, I’m an advocate for my tribal nation. Through public speaking, I’ve worked to amplify the sovereignty and rightful stewardship of the Piscataway Conoy Tribe over unceded lands in the DMV. I also contributed as a Content Creator to the 2024 Harris-Walz Campaign and have long-term aspirations to serve in the U.S. Congress.
My path has never been linear, but it’s always been led by a commitment to justice, visibility, and community-centered leadership.