Celebrating 10 Years of Houston Justice: A Journey of Empowerment and Impact
Celebrating 10 Years of Houston Justice: A Journey of Empowerment and Impact
Ten years ago, I started on a path I couldn’t fully imagine at the time. At 28, with Shakira Dennis and Damian Thaddeus Jones by my side, we launched what was then the Houston Justice Coalition. We had a simple goal: to create a better Houston by tackling the issues that matter most to our communities. Today, that vision has grown into Houston Justice, an organization that has touched thousands of lives and helped shape our city’s future.
As I reflect on this decade of work, I realize how much I’ve changed. Back then, I believed change came from policies—a bill passed, an ordinance adopted, or a candidate elected to office. But over time, I’ve learned something deeper: the process of building power within the community is far more important than the outcome.
The effort it takes to pass a bill, elect a leader, or drive an initiative forward is where real transformation happens. That process—mobilizing, organizing, and educating people—is what builds the foundation for lasting change. Because even if a bill gets passed or someone gets elected, none of it matters without a community that’s ready to hold them accountable. The true power lies not in the result, but in the collective strength of an organized, informed, and engaged community.
Change doesn’t come from outside—it comes from within. Instead of trying to create a perfect world, our work at Houston Justice is now focused on connecting with people who want to make a difference and equipping them to lead that change themselves. Power doesn’t lie in a single leader or elected official. It’s in the collective strength of individuals educated and empowered to make the best decisions for their families, neighborhoods, and futures.
This shift in perspective has transformed everything we do. It’s not about persuasion—it’s about building spaces where people with shared ideals can collaborate. It’s about breaking down silos and fostering cross-pollination of ideas to create a truly inclusive community. That’s the heart of Houston Justice today.
Our Impact: By the Numbers
This year, as the nation experienced a historic election, Houston Justice didn’t just watch history unfold—we helped shape it. Through bold action and tireless commitment, we reached tens of thousands of Houstonians to ensure their voices were heard and their votes counted.
75,000+ Total Voter Contacts
49,285 voters reached through calls and texts
25,612 targeted mailers delivered
15,541 pieces of literature distributed
34 neighborhood literature drops completed
Each number represents a connection, a reminder, and an invitation for someone to engage in their democracy.
Breaking New Ground with Project Orange
This year, we expanded Project Orange, a groundbreaking initiative that brings voting access directly into Harris County Jail. Too often, individuals who are justice-involved are excluded from the democratic process. We worked to change that narrative by reaching over 2,000 eligible voters who had been overlooked for far too long.
Highlights from Project Orange:
Created a first-of-its-kind voter guide, featuring powerful stories of transformation and civic engagement.
Launched an innovative video series breaking down voting rights and dispelling myths.
Provided direct outreach to show individuals how they could exercise their right to vote.
This initiative wasn’t just about votes—it was about restoring dignity, opportunity, and belonging to people often forgotten by the system.
Building Bridges, Strengthening Community
Houston Justice isn’t just about policy—it’s about people. This year, we created spaces for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and celebration:
Hosted intimate conversations with District Attorney candidates, giving community members the chance to share their stories and concerns directly with decision-makers.
Brought over 200 people together for a Presidential Debate watch party, turning political engagement into a vibrant community celebration.
Organized a 6-part film series exploring critical issues, sparking thoughtful conversations and inspiring action.
Conducted 7 strategic planning sessions to ensure our work reflects the needs of Houston’s most vulnerable populations.
These efforts weren’t just events—they were bridges, connecting people to each other and to the belief that democracy thrives when it includes everyone.
From Then to Now: A Personal Reflection
When we began as the Houston Justice Coalition, we were a small team with big dreams. As Shakira and Damian stepped away in our second year, I remained the sole founder, transitioning to what is now simply Houston Justice. That distinction matters because while our roots were in coalition work, Houston Justice has grown into a standalone force for empowerment and equity.
It’s been an incredible journey—one that has shaped me as much as it has shaped this organization. I’ve gone from focusing on policy solutions to understanding the true power of people. And as I look to the future, I know our best work is still ahead.
Houston Justice’s #ProjectOrange jail-based voting initiative circa 2018.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
The work of Houston Justice is far from done. Every text sent, every door knocked, and every conversation had represents something bigger than numbers—it represents a Houstonian reconnecting with their fundamental right to be heard.
As we prepare for 2025, we’re committed to scaling our efforts and deepening our impact. But we can’t do it alone. To help us celebrate this milestone and continue the work, I invite you to support Houston Justice.
Your donation is tax-exempt, and every dollar goes toward creating a stronger, more connected Houston. Visit houjustice.org to make your contribution today.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey—whether you volunteered, donated, attended an event, or simply believed in our mission. This milestone belongs to all of us. Together, we’re not just imagining a better future—we’re building it.
With gratitude and optimism,
Durrel Douglas
Founder & Executive Director
houjustice.org