Louis L. Reed
Louis L. Reed
Author & Reentry Activist
Louis L. Reed is an author and renowned activist. He was the Sr. Director of Membership and Partnerships for the REFORM Alliance. He brings to his activism years of experience in government, criminal justice reform, policy advocacy, public health, and a personal impact story after serving nearly 14 years in federal prison and several years on supervision.
Louis is a board-certified addictions counselor and licensed alcohol & addictions practitioner. Prior to joining REFORM, Louis was the Director of National Organizing & Partnerships for Dream Corps JUSTICE (formerly #cut50), where he grew the nation’s largest bi-partisan grassroots advocacy and organizing coalition through the Empathy Network.
Louis’s experience in government includes conceptualizing and serving as Director of the Mayor’s Office for Reentry Affairs in the City of Bridgeport, CT. There, he led services for all persons impacted by the criminal justice system both in and returning to the City after incarceration.
His policy reform experience includes leading advocacy for the historic First Step Act, and working with the Connecticut legislature for successful enactment of legislation related to expanding access to licenses for people living with criminal records, limiting asset forfeiture practices by law enforcement, and strengthening reentry practices and services for people returning from prison.
Louis is a Council of Criminal Justice trustee, Forbes Coaches Council Member, Huffington Post contributor on Prison Traumatic Stress Disorder, and has appeared on CNN, CBSN, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and in national publications. Louis has received many awards recognizing his work and leadership, including recognition by The Brigadoon’s 2020 top 20 influential leaders, and a 2021 Ebony Magazine Power 100 nomination.
Louis lives in Connecticut, consults in strategic partnerships/organizing, and is a guest commentator on the Law & Crime Network
REGISTRATION BONUS! After the Summit, attendees will have the opportunity to pre-screen the documentary film called The First Step before it's 2023 Public release. The documentary which received accolades at numerous film festivals, tracks CNN Political Contributor, Van Jones and Reentry Advocate Louis L. Reed as they work across political party lines to secure the federal First Step Act. The documentary showcases Jones' and Louis' efforts with community, politicians and law enforcement.