Shaping Justice: Ali Lacayo on Culture, Resilience, and Reform

In this episode of Unpacking Injustice, we sit down with Ali Lacayo, Social Services Advocate at the Montana Innocence Project. Ali shares their journey from incarceration to advocacy, reflecting on how cultural identity, resilience, and community values guide their work.

The conversation explores the intersections of racial justice and criminal legal reform, the impact of lived experience on advocacy, and MTIP’s future initiatives, such as parole planning and Inside Out Organizing, which empower incarcerated individuals to lead change. Ali underscores the importance of cultural identity in building stronger movements, the need for community support, and why sustainable funding is essential to advancing justice.

We dive into Ali’s personal story, highlighting how they embody the caring, loving, and colorful spirit of their culture. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate Ali’s work and the vibrant values that continue to shape their advocacy and community leadership.