Alliance for Justice is thrilled to announce Rachel Rossi as our new President — ushering in a bold new chapter in our fight for justice, equity, and democracy.
From the courtroom to Capitol Hill, Rachel brings a lifetime of fearless advocacy, public service, and reform-driven leadership to AFJ at a critical moment for our democracy. A trailblazer in every sense of the word, Rachel’s appointment signals a powerful new era for AFJ and the progressive movement.
“As a trailblazer in the legal and advocacy communities, Rachel brings a remarkable legacy of public service, legislative expertise, and principled leadership to AFJ. She steps into this role at a pivotal time for the progressive movement, the courts, and nonprofits’ role in defending our democracy. Her legal experience, policy knowledge, and powerful voice for reform will position AFJ to meet the moment with strength, strategy, and heart.”
— Paulette Meyer, AFJ Board Chair
A Proven Champion for Justice
Rachel most recently served in the Biden Administration’s Department of Justice as Director of the Office for Access to Justice, where she worked to ensure justice for the most underserved communities. She also made history as the DOJ’s first Anti-Hate Coordinator, under Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta.
“Her appointment as President of Alliance for Justice signals a powerful and timely commitment to advancing justice and protecting democracy at this critical time for our country.”
Vanita Gupta, Former Associate Attorney General
A Legacy of Public Defense and Criminal Justice Reform
Rachel’s legal career began in Los Angeles, where she spent nearly a decade as a public defender, advocating for thousands of low-income clients across state and federal courts. Her work continued on Capitol Hill as Counsel to Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin, helping lead the passage of the landmark First Step Act — a major federal criminal justice reform law.
“Rachel’s expertise, integrity, and relentless drive were instrumental in advancing meaningful criminal justice reform. Rachel brings compassion and clarity of purpose to every challenge she faces, and Alliance for Justice could not ask for a more principled, passionate, and visionary leader at this pivotal moment in our democracy.”
— Sen. Dick Durbin
Groundbreaking Leadership & Community Roots
In 2020, Rachel made history as the first former public defender to run for Los Angeles County District Attorney, garnering nearly half a million votes — a testament to her bold, community-rooted vision of justice.
A proud daughter of immigrants from the Dominican Republic and Greece, Rachel’s lived experience and deep community ties fuel her commitment to equity and inclusion. She was raised in Los Angeles and earned her law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law, with undergraduate studies at Azusa Pacific University, Vanguard University, and Bethany University.
A Message from Rachel
“I am deeply honored to join Alliance for Justice, an organization with a proud history of defending the integrity of our courts and advancing social justice. Today’s challenges call for an unyielding commitment to justice, a dedication to uplifting underserved communities, and strong opposition to policies that undermine our rights and freedoms. I look forward to building on AFJ’s legacy and expanding its impact at a time when our democracy demands bold and courageous leadership.”
