Lea Campbell

Name: Lea Campbell

What city and state do you live in?: Ocean Springs, MS

Describe your current work/workplace: I am founding President of Mississippi Rising Coalition, a NPO dedicated to advancing human rights and economic and social justice in MS through community organizing, coalition-building, popular education, direct action and policy advocacy. Our work is centered around anti-racism and anti-poverty initiatives, including prison and police abolition, food security and mutual aid. I became involved in this work in 2015 when I joined the organizing efforts to remove the Confederate emblem from the MS state flag.

What made you want to join CLI?: The idea of a gender-specific leadership development program designed by and for impacted women in the movement to end mass incarceration is exciting! As an untrained organizer and advocate, participation in this program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop and strengthen organizing, advocacy and leadership skills who share a passion for the liberation of all people.

What are you most looking forward to as a part of CLI?: I'm looking forward to the relationships and support system we will build with one another most. I'm also looking forward to gaining a more fully developed historical and critical analysis of the system of mass incarceration with the ability to clearly articulate to multiple audiences why prison reform, and ultimately abolition, is necessary for a healthy and humane society.

What do you wish people knew about women who are incarcerated/formerly incarcerated/their families?: Often these women and families are victims of poverty and violence who just need support and resources, not more violence, marginalization and punishment.

Who is your biggest supporter?: My husband.

What is your favorite form of self-care?: Exercise, time outdoors and healthy eating.