We're a civil rights organization founded in 1971 by Morris Dees and Joe Levin to ensure that the promise of the civil rights movement became a reality for all. Based in Montgomery, Alabama - the birthplace of the modern civil rights movement - we work as a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, partnering with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance human rights for everyone. Our approach combines legal advocacy, intelligence tracking, education, and community organizing to address systemic racism and protect vulnerable populations.
Over the past five decades, we've won landmark legal victories that toppled institutional racism, destroyed violent white supremacist groups, and protected the civil rights of children, women, people with disabilities, immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, prisoners, and many others who face discrimination. Our Intelligence Project monitors over 1,500 active extremist groups, while Learning for Justice provides educational resources for schools across the country. We never take legal fees from our clients, and we accept no government funding, which allows us to remain independent and focused on our mission of fighting hate and seeking justice.
