EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER

Rod Adams is committed to building economic power for Black and brown communities. Growing up in Chicago, he saw how poverty and crime affected people differently based on their race and these early experiences shaped his awareness of systemic disparities. Now, he is the founder and executive director of the New Justice Project, an organization that focuses on building power for Black Minnesotans through leadership development, political education and access to equitable jobs and housing. As a Bush Fellow, he will earn a bachelor’s degree in public policy at the University of Minnesota, travel to learn from experts in economic development and social innovation, and build more sustainable leadership practices that help him do even more for those he serves.

Contact Me: rod@newjusticeprojectmn.org

COMMUNICATIONS & CULTURAL MANAGER

Shakirah Edwards is a multimedia journalist, public speaker and host who grew up watching her father organize in the inner city, specifically North Minneapolis. At the time, there was no language used to confirm that that’s what he was doing but once she got older and he passed away she realized what a pillar he was for his community and understood the passion he felt to make change and fight for our people every single day. 

Today, she is determined to use her voice to fight for those same folk, and hopefully make a difference and a safe space for her community via digital organizing. 

Contact Me: shakirah@newjusticeprojectmn.org

CAMPAIGN COORDINATOR

Nelle is a Southern transplant who has called Minnesota home for nearly six years. With a decade of experience across technical support, the service industry, and nonprofit sectors, Nelle brings a broad skill set and working class perspective to their organizing work. 

In their downtime, Nelle enjoys bachata partner dancing, practicing yoga in community and finds comfort in cheesy queer romance novels. Their experiences navigating being low income, black and queer highlight their resilience and commitment to personal, spiritual, and communal growth, with a focus on building collective power for equity in Minnesota.

Contact Me: nelle@newjusticeprojectmn.org

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

 From a young advocate for voting rights to a seasoned social justice leader, Dawn's journey has been marked by a deep commitment to equity. Her work in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors has equipped her with the tools to address complex social issues. Now, she is dedicated to creating a more just and equitable world for all.

Contact Me: dawn@newjusticeprojectmn.org

COMMUNITY ORGANIZER(SHE/HER)

Destiny Showers is a passionate leader, organizer, and advocate devoted to uplifting Black and Brown communities with love, strength, and cultural pride. A proud Chicago native with deep roots in North Minneapolis. She has dedicated her life to empowering those facing adversity. As a Lead Canvasser and Community Organizer with New Justice Project MN, Destiny mobilizes through grassroots efforts, builds power and amplifies marginalized voices to drive meaningful social change. With a background in youth engagement, healthcare, and esthetics allows her to blend care, empowerment, and cultural connection in every space. Whether mentoring young people, supporting families, or fostering resilience through advocacy, her work is rooted in healing, justice, and collective liberation. Beyond activism, she finds joy in the simple, restorative moments of community and nature—hiking, camping, or swaying in a hammock with a Bell Hooks book in hand.

Contact Me: destiny@newjusticeprojectmn.org