Significant Leadership Shift at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Citing the urgency of the upcoming fall elections, DeJuana Thompson, CEO of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) and a long-time advocate for voting rights, is stepping down to return to Woke Vote, the voter education and advocacy organization she founded in 2017, the institute announced Wednesday.

“Given the current state of the country, we must protect institutions like BCRI and safeguard our democracy,” Thompson stated. “My work with Woke Vote will allow me to directly address these threats, train new organizers, and engage our communities in the fight for our fundamental rights.”

Thompson joined BCRI in 2021 and was appointed president and CEO in May 2022. “I love the institute,” she added.

Isaac Cooper, BCRI board chair, will serve as interim president and CEO while the institute conducts a national search for a permanent successor.

“BCRI is grateful for Ms. Thompson’s leadership during a challenging period,” said Cooper. He credited Thompson with guiding BCRI through the COVID-19 pandemic's aftermath, enhancing its branding, and strengthening its local and national presence. “She came in at a critical juncture, steadied the ship, and expanded our reach. We wish her all the best as she returns to her first love of community activism and empowering people nationwide.”

During Thompson’s tenure, BCRI achieved several milestones:

• Secured millions in funding by establishing and strengthening corporate partnerships
• Renewed collaborations with the Smithsonian Institution, the American Alliance of Museums, and the African American Association of Museums
• Revived signature programs, including the annual Juneteenth Celebration
• Invested in critical infrastructure improvements
• Enhanced staff access to continuing education resources

With Woke Vote, Thompson will launch a nationwide engagement tour to raise awareness and inspire action, particularly among Black and brown communities.