A MESSAGE FROM 40 & Forward: Etienne’s Run for Justice
Thank you for supporting my marathon journey with #TeamUJC.
This year, I’m running my very first marathon—the NYC Marathon—as part of a deeper personal milestone: turning 40. I was born and raised in the South Bronx, the son of working-class West Indian immigrants. I know firsthand what it means to grow up in an underserved, overpoliced community—and I’ve dedicated my life to the pursuit of justice and dignity for those who continue to be pushed to the margins.
As a law professor and scholar, I’ve spent the past decade focused on issues like food justice, environmental justice, and economic equity. Running this marathon is part of a recommitment to that mission: to community, to service, and to the long journey of liberation.
I’m proud to run in support of the Urban Justice Center, a nonprofit that has spent the last 40 years fighting for vulnerable New Yorkers—survivors of domestic violence, people facing homelessness, those seeking asylum, and so many others. UJC provides direct legal services, mental health support, advocacy, and organizing tools to tens of thousands every year.
Your donation makes this work possible. Your generosity helps UJC expand mental health services, strengthen safety nets, challenge mass incarceration, and incubate bold, community-rooted justice initiatives.
Every dollar fuels this mission—and every step I run is for the people.
Thank you for investing in justice, in community, and in the future we’re building together.
Your gift is 100% tax-deductible (UJC's EIN is 13-3442022).
For any questions, please reach out to: development@urbanjustice.org.
