Young Black Lawyers Mobilize Detroit Voters to Shape the Future of the Courts

When the Young Black Lawyers’ Organizing Coalition (YBLOC) arrived in Detroit, it brought an energy that stirred memories of the Freedom Riders, evoking a spirit of activism rooted in history. This time, instead of facing hostile crowds and arrest threats, these young legal minds from Howard University Law School focused on a quieter yet equally powerful mission—engaging Black voters on the power of the judiciary. With two Michigan Supreme Court seats and numerous local judicial positions up for election on Nov. 5, YBLOC’s message was clear: vote to influence the courts, because judicial decisions shape our civil rights, freedoms, and futures. YBLOC’s mobilization wasn’t about party lines or political leanings. Instead, it was a call to protect Black voting power and ensure representation in the courts. Abdul Dosunmu, founder and executive director of YBLOC, underscored this critical need. “The courts play an undeniable role in shaping the civil rights of Black people in Michigan and across the nation,” Dosunmu explained. “Yet, there’s often little attention given to electoral education and engagement efforts around the judiciary.” His words were a reminder that Black communities have historically faced challenges in the legal system—challenges that persist and impact everything from voting rights to...