Today, the Center for Policing Equity released the following statement on the death of Civil Rights Champion and Harvard Law Professor, Lani Gunier:
The Center for Policing Equity mourns the loss of brilliant scholar, theorist, and public servant, Lani Guinier. She made incredible contributions to the cause of civil rights, and through her scholarship and public engagement, offered us new paradigms to understand democracy and inequality. Her trailblazing racial justice work personally impacted many of us here at CPE, including our founders, senior leadership team, and supporters.
Professor Guinier was the first woman of color to be tenured at Harvard Law School, the recipient of numerous awards—including ten honorary degrees, and the author of dozens of articles and books. She dedicated her life to the cause of justice and consistently challenged us all to be more rigorous critical thinkers, empathetic advocates for change, and engaged community members. Through her mentorship and groundbreaking research, she helped to develop new generations of advocates, attorneys, and activists dedicated to creating a more equitable and just world.
Through this loss, we acknowledge the pathbreaking legacy of Professor Guinier exemplified by her fortitude, intellect, and diligence. We offer our sincerest gratitude for all she gave and dedicate ourselves to honor her through our continued commitment to the causes of justice and equity.