Issue link: http://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/292122
11 PowerofGood.com | 2014 Vol. 1 discussed the effects of these crises on Alabama and the nation. "We have people in this state who, literally, are dying for a lawyer," said Stevenson, whose EJI nonprofit provides legal services to hundreds of poor prisoners and defendants denied equal treatment. About 2.3 million American men – one of every three black men between the ages of 18 and 30 – are jailed or on parole. at's an astronomic jump since 1972, when about 330,000 people were jailed. "e challenges are overwhelming," said Stevenson, who pointed out that more than 50 million Americans live below the poverty level – more than at any other time in U.S. history. "I am persuaded there is nothing more traumatizing, more stigmatizing, than poverty." He praised Alabama Power Foundation, stating that both have an important role in moving Alabama forward. "True leadership requires that we embrace the challenges," Stevenson said. "ere is power in identity. It matters what kind of company you work for – Alabama Power recognizes its responsibility to the communities it serves. Your identity allows you to say things and do things. When we create the right identity, we can say things to the world around us." For real change to come about, he continued, society must elect to be near to the most difficult issues that people face. "We have an obligation to do better for the poor, to the neglected," Stevenson said. "at work is part of changing the narrative of slavery, terrorism, oppression and poverty." Like the chained prisoner Stevenson assisted more than 30 years ago – now free and a preacher – positive change will continue in Alabama, Stevenson believes. Alabama Power Foundation President John Hudson said the company is pleased to promote Stevenson's mission to empower, encourage and impact the community. "Bryan Stevenson embodies African-American leaders who strive daily to move people forward despite their monetary circumstances and to fight for the American value of equal justice for all," Hudson said. "Alabama Power is deeply committed to advancing the communities we serve and bringing positive change to our state." View a video of Stevenson's talk at the Power Of Leadership luncheon at youtube.com/alabamapower Bryan Stevenson speaks to civic and business leaders at Alabama Power's Power of Leadership program.