This month, Alvin Bragg will begin his term as Manhattan District Attorney. Insha Rahman, Vice President of Advocacy & Partnerships at the Vera Institute of Justice, who also served as co-chair of Bragg’s transition committee, issued the following statement:

“Today, Alvin Bragg makes history as the first-ever Black Manhattan District Attorney. We are at a critical moment in New York City, when fearmongering about criminal justice reform threatens the progress made in recent years toward a more just and safe New York City. We need DA Bragg’s clear vision for the prosecutor’s role—where justice and safety go hand in hand—and expect the Manhattan DA’s office to serve as an accountable partner in the fight to end mass incarceration. Vera congratulates DA Bragg on his historic new role. We look forward to working together for more justice and safety and supporting him in turning campaign promises into action.”

About the Vera Institute of Justice
The Vera Institute of Justice is powered by hundreds of advocates, researchers, and activists working to transform the criminal legal and immigration systems until they’re fair for all. Founded in 1961 to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City, Vera is now a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change. We develop just, antiracist solutions so that money doesn’t determine freedom; fewer people are in jails, prisons, and immigration detention; and everyone is treated with dignity. Vera’s headquarters is in Brooklyn, New York, with offices in Washington, DC, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. For more information, visit vera.org.