Reverend Jacqueline (Jackie) Newsome has made it her life’s mission to faithfully fight for the freedoms of those swept up in the American Criminal Legal System. After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Politics from New York University, Rev. Jackie continued her studies at The University of Chicago Law School, where she served as President of the Black Law Students Association and received many accolades, including the Ann Watson Barber Outstanding Service Award and recognition for being a Chicago Women’s Bar Foundation Scholar. A year after graduating with her Juris Doctor, Rev. Jackie enrolled in Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and further developed her identity as a social justice preacher and minister. Her thesis, Jesus Loves Guilty People: Making The Case for the Black Church to End Mass Incarceration, highlighted her theological perspectives on why the Black Church must abide by abolitionist principles to disrupt the prison industrial complex. Also, as President of the Black Student Caucus and a student member of Candler’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Rev. Jackie worked tirelessly to hold the institution accountable to its stated values on behalf of the student body. Off-campus, Rev. Jackie served as an intern minister at Greater Turner Chapel AME Church in Atlanta, GA, and Mount Zion AME Church in Decatur, GA. 

After completing her studies at Candler in 2019, Rev. Jackie brought her passion, skills, and expertise to Philadelphia to work as an Assistant Public Defender for the Defender Association of Philadelphia until 2024. Her commitment to the church, community, and social justice led her to her current role as Assistant Pastor at the First United Methodist Church of Germantown, where she continues to make a significant impact.

Rev. Jackie is a dedicated member of the Philadelphia Reparations Task Force and the Rise Up for Reparations Committee. In both spaces, she actively contributes to the community's efforts towards just practices on behalf of the descendants of enslaved Africans. She is also a multi-state bar licensed attorney and continues to consult with the Defender Association of Philadelphia as a volunteer defender. Lastly, she is a highly sought-after preacher and speaker who is always ready to get into good trouble.

Guy Lang, a dedicated father of three and a proud Temple University graduate with a BA in Criminal Justice is deeply committed to advocating for and uplifting Black communities. With a career marked by unwavering dedication, Guy is an active member of organizations such as the Black Public Defender Association, National Legal Aid and Defender Association, and the National Association for Public Defense. His passion for justice and growth led him to become a fellow in the Black Defender Leadership Institute 2.0, currently honing his skills and leadership. Guy also served as the Training Coordinator for the Juvenile Defender Association of Philadelphia, a role appointed directly by the JDAP president, underscoring his commitment to the cause of racial justice.

Expanding his horizons, Guy studied Child Exploitation in Cambodia through Trinity Law School, enriching his global perspective. Beyond borders, his relentless commitment extends to empowering communities and advocating for racial justice. Currently, Guy serves as the Director of Youth Partnerships and Community Outreach, and Director of the Junior Defender Program at the Defender Association of Philadelphia. His dedication also extends to public speaking engagements, where he shares insights and advocates for positive change.

In these pivotal roles and accomplishments, Guy cultivates strong connections with the communities served by the Defender, fostering collaboration, facilitating resource-sharing, and bridging the gap between Defender clients and comprehensive community support systems. His tireless efforts aim to bring Defender services closer to its clients, nurturing a more inclusive and supportive environment that champions social equity and racial justice.

Christina Tavares is a dedicated professional currently serving in a dual capacity as Director of DEI and Social Service Advocate at the Defender Association of Philadelphia. With a career spanning over a decade in public service, Christina has demonstrated unwavering commitment to improving the lives of marginalized individuals.

Christina’s journey in advocating for the underprivileged began in 2012 when she joined the Defender Association of Philadelphia. Her work there has been nothing short of transformative, as she tirelessly conducts home, placement, and agency visits to evaluate and address the emotional, social, and educational needs of abused, neglected, and exploited youth. Her tenacity shines through as she navigates complex situations to secure vital resources for these vulnerable individuals.

Before her tenure at the Defender Association of Philadelphia, Christina commenced her career as a Student Advisor for the Philadelphia School District, where she collaborated with a diverse team of interdisciplinary school staff. Together, they assessed a wide spectrum of issues affecting students, ranging from educational and social to cognitive, emotional, and substance abuse concerns. Christina’s dedication to intervention and support during this phase laid the foundation for her impactful career.

In her most recent role as a Director of DEI, Christina spearheads initiatives aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within her organization. Her commitment to social justice extends beyond the office, as she actively engages with various committees, including DEI Committee, Social Work Practice Committee, Autism in the Courts Committee, and the NAPD’s DEI and Racial Justice+ Committee. Christina more recently joined The Public Defender Association of Pennsylvania team as the Co- Chair Director for their Racial Justice Screening Series.

Christina holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Service with a minor in Psychology, earned from Chestnut Hill College she also completed her certification of Diversity Equity and Inclusion from Cornell University. Beyond her professional endeavors, she exemplifies a strong sense of community engagement, volunteering her time at Expungement Clinics and Restorative Justice Initiatives in collaboration with the DA’s office. Christina is also a familiar face at various community events, where she provides essential resources related to housing, therapy, and substance abuse support.

In summary, Christina Tavares is a tireless advocate for justice, equity, and the welfare of those often overlooked by society. Her diverse experience, coupled with her unwavering dedication, make her a driving force for positive change in her community and beyond.