Noted & Quoted
•Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: Dr. Kevin Beckford on Justice and Youth Empowerment
Threespot
09/26/2025
Kevin, your dedication to social impact, particularly in the realms of crime reform and dismantling racism, is both evident and inspiring. Could you elaborate on what drives this commitment, especially considering your own personal intersections such as race, ethnicity, class, gender, and your lived experiences? How do these aspects inform and fuel the work you do?
My life’s mission is to elevate Black excellence and dismantle the systems that perpetuate white supremacy. That conviction led me to co-found The Hustlers Guild, using hip-hop to break barriers in technology and innovation, and to push for racial equity in education during my time with the Urban Assembly in New York City.
At the Pretrial Justice Institute, I carry this forward through criminal justice reform. With family and friends who’ve been incarcerated, my advocacy is both professional and deeply personal.
My childhood experiences—growing up as a Black man, witnessing my mother’s struggles, and seeing brilliance in my community too often stifled by systemic traps—instilled in me resilience and a drive to fight oppression. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the diverse experiences within the Black diaspora, including my Jamaican heritage, and to unlearn the biases that divide us.
What grounds me is empathy. From an early age, I’ve believed in the inherent value of every person. That belief allows me to listen without judgment, build coalitions, and advocate with love and respect. It’s through that lens that I continue to pursue justice and empowerment.
Kevin, in the realm of crime reform and your work at the Pretrial Justice Institute, what significant idea are you striving to manifest in the world, and how do you envision advancing this concept through specific projects?
At the Pretrial Justice Institute, my focus is dismantling inequities in the justice system, starting with the pretrial stage—the critical window between arrest and trial. Too often, this process devastates lives, especially for Black communities, who face harsher charges and longer detentions.
We’re advocating for community-based alternatives to detention, systems that assess risk without defaulting to incarceration, and greater transparency to prevent discriminatory practices. The goal is to make pretrial justice a catalyst for racial justice and liberation.
Beyond justice reform, I’ve dedicated much of my work to education and technology access for Black and Brown youth. A 2019 McKinsey report predicted that by 2040, 40% of jobs held by Black men could be lost to automation. That drives my focus on teaching tech skills that empower youth, building coalitions with innovators, and uplifting Black leaders advancing inclusion.
I’m also deeply committed to school integration. In New York City—one of the most segregated school systems in the country—Black and LatinX students are consistently denied the quality education they deserve. Changing that reality is central to my advocacy.
Why are these initiatives particularly important to you, and how do they contribute to the broader landscape of efforts to advance racial equity?
These initiatives are not just professional pursuits; they are deeply personal. The idea of enhancing access to technology and innovation for Black youth aligns with my commitment to fighting against systemic barriers that limit opportunities for our communities. In the context of PJI's work, addressing these issues is crucial for creating a more equitable and just society where all individuals have the opportunity to succeed and contribute meaningfully.
Kevin, reflecting on your journey, what are three key experiences or influences that have significantly shaped your approach to leadership?
Three experiences have most shaped my leadership.
First, my early life—witnessing my mother’s struggles and navigating the challenges of growing up Black in America—instilled empathy, resilience, and a belief in the power of hope.
Second, my time in the White House and later as an advisor at HUD sharpened my skills in policy, diplomacy, and coalition-building. I learned patience and the importance of building bridges across diverse groups.
Finally, co-founding The Hustlers Guild showed me the transformative power of education and mentorship. Watching young Black and LatinX students thrive reinforced my commitment to visionary leadership grounded in collaboration and empowerment.
Together, these experiences taught me to lead with integrity, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
What advice would you give to those starting in social justice?
To those embarking on a journey in the realms of social justice and reform, my advice is threefold. First, embrace the power of your unique voice and perspective. The field of social justice is vast and multifaceted, and it's crucial to bring your authentic self to the work. Your individual experiences and insights are invaluable in crafting innovative solutions and driving meaningful change. Remember, diversity in thought and background is not just beneficial but essential in this field.
Second, cultivate resilience and patience. This path is often challenging and fraught with obstacles. Change, especially systemic change, requires time and persistent effort. It's important to stay committed to your cause, even in the face of setbacks. Celebrate small victories along the way, and use them as fuel to keep pushing forward.
Lastly, never underestimate the importance of building a strong network of allies and mentors. Collaboration is key in social justice work. Seek out relationships with those who share your passion and can offer guidance, support, and different perspectives. Learn from those who have walked the path before you, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help or advice. Remember, this work is a collective endeavor, and together, we can achieve greater impact.
Starting a career in social justice and reform is more than a professional choice—it's a commitment to being a part of something larger than oneself. It's about fighting for equity, championing the underrepresented, and tirelessly working towards a more just and fair world. So, to those starting out, I say: Welcome. Your energy, passion, and dedication are needed more than ever.
Interview by Nathan Lucrisia, Director of Business Development
On the Record is Threespot’s interview series, spotlighting leaders and organizations that are reshaping our communities through vision and action. Each conversation explores three core questions: What drives your commitment to your cause? What are three key experiences or influences that have significantly shaped your approach to leadership? And what advice would you give to those starting in social change? Together, these stories reveal not just the work but the changemakers behind movements for equity, sustainability, and lasting change.