aot History & Herstory
Our Roots: Rising from the Call for Justice
America On Trial Inc. (AOT) was founded in the wake of the 2020 killing of George Floyd, born from the urgency to demand justice and systemic change. As protests ignited across New York City, we stood with the people, advocating for action beyond the streets. From The People’s March (June–October 2020)—which pushed for the criminalization of chokeholds and the repeal of 50-A—to launching community fridges in Brooklyn (Crown Heights) and Queens (Queensbridge), we took direct steps to support communities in need. We also organized neighborhood cleanups during sanitation budget cuts and built a youth leadership coalition to equip the next generation with tools for advocacy and lasting change.
Our advocacy helped fuel a movement that led to real policy victories:
On June 2, 2020, Senator Brad Hoylman tweeted that his office had received nearly 2,000 emails from constituents demanding that 50-A be repealed on that day alone.
On June 3, 2020, Senator Liz Krueger tweeted, “My office has never received so many emails supporting a bill in such a short period of time as we have for #Repeal50A over the last two days.”
On June 5, 2020, New York constituents sent over 100,000 emails and made over 20,000 phone calls in support of repealing 50-A, a major legislative push toward police accountability.
Recognizing the need for long-term impact, America On Trial Inc. was officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in the state of New York on July 27, 2022. This milestone solidified our commitment to building a sustainable movement dedicated to justice, equity, and empowerment.
Building a Movement: Where We Are Now
Today, AOT continues its commitment to dismantling mass incarceration, police brutality, and systemic inequities through advocacy, education, and economic empowerment. We drive change through two major initiatives:
AOT Liberty Freedom Farm (Greene County, NY) – A 1.06-acre sanctuary fighting food insecurity, providing affordable, nutritious food, and fostering community empowerment. Families of incarcerated individuals receive free produce, ensuring direct support for those most impacted by systemic injustice.
#AIRS Campaign (Abolish Incarcerated Reality Shows) – A movement to end the exploitation of incarcerated individuals and their families in the media while advocating for decarceration, prison labor reform, and dignity for those behind bars.
Through these initiatives, we are not just fighting injustice—we are building sustainable solutions that uplift and empower communities.Our Vision for the Future: A Path to Liberation
AOT is planting the seeds for a future rooted in justice, equity, and self-sufficiency. The AOT Liberty Freedom Farm will grow into a thriving agricultural hub, expanding education, job training, and economic opportunities for system-impacted families. Meanwhile, the #AIRS Campaign will continue to challenge harmful narratives while pushing for legislative reforms that prioritize restorative justice. As our movement expands, we invite you to stand with us—whether by supporting the farm, joining our campaigns, or amplifying our mission.
Be part of the movement. Together, we can create a world where every community thrives, every voice is heard, and every soul is free.