Minnesota’s criminal legal system has been created by policymakers who have never experienced it, and the result has often been dysfunctional policies that make us all
less safe. It’s time for that to change. We need bold leadership from Minnesotans who know what’s wrong with the system from first-hand experience. That's why the ACLU-MN, the Minneapolis NAACP and T.O.N.E. U.P. launched the 2025-2026 Smart Justice Fellowship.
The 2025-2026 Smart Justice Fellowship will train 10 justice-impacted Fellows from across Minnesota to become leaders in the statewide fight for criminal legal reform. Fellows will also partner with a community coalition throughout their fellowship tenure. The coalitions are:
- Clean Slate Coalition
- Justice Equity Coalition
- HOPE Act Coalition
- End Slavery in Minnesota Coalition
- Immigrant Defense Network
- Pretrial Coalition
2025-2026 Smart Justice Fellows
(Bios and photos provided by Fellows)
Calvin Boswell (he/him) — Minneapolis

I’m 36. I’m all about family. No matter where I’m at, as long as I’m with the right people I can find a way to smile. I also love to write poetry & spoken word, it saved my life.
Alessandra Elarae (she/they) — Minneapolis

I am a transgender woman who has been affected by childhood adversity. I am neurodivergent and am committed to bridging gaps in my community and society as a whole. I have worked very hard and will continue to serve others who have experienced marginalization, regardless of their intersections.
Machelle Frisbie (she/her) — Winona

I am an advocate for prisoners right in Minnesota because I believe that everyone should have a voice. I am a mother of three and hope to make the world a safer, better place for them.
Natasha Garner (she/her) — Duluth

I have made a choice to change my life around. I want to show the world that just because people make bad choices in life and have a criminal record that doesn’t have to define them. I am not what the legal system says I am. I am capable of positive change and to help others make positive choices and changes in their life as well. We all deserve grace, forgiveness, and freedom!
Josh Mcmillen (he/him) — Minneapolis

I’m a Justice-Impacted person in recovery; I’m passionate about giving back and affecting my community for the good. I want to use the pain I’ve been through to speak for those who feel like they have no voice.
Brittany Powell (she/her) — Minneapolis

My name is Brittany, I am a black and native woman from Minnesota. I am passionate about mental health and wellness. I am currently a grad student at the University of St. Thomas seeking my LPC in psychology. My desire is to influence policy and the justice system with evidence based theories and practices that support our marginalized communities.
Winona RedDay (she/her) — Bemidji

As a passionate parent, advocate and current student, I aim to inform and empower my community about the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in the context of systemic injustices faced by marginalized groups. Drawing from my personal experiences, I believe that integrating spiritual principles into mental health discussions can be a powerful tool for healing and growth. By sharing my story and perspectives, I hope to help others understand the interconnectedness of mental health, spirituality, and social justice. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and informed community that supports the well-being of all individuals.
Al Smith Jr. (he/him) — Rochester

I'm a person living in long term sobriety, impacted by the criminal justice system. Once cast out and marginalized, I am now dedicated to bringing my voice to the table for those who cannot and are still impacted by an imperfect system.
Oleg Vinetsky (he/him) — Apple Valley

I am a proud first generation immigrant from the Ukraine. I look forward to becoming a visible leader in advocating for the rights and interests of Justice-Impacted individuals across the state of Minnesota. My passion and drive for change comes from my first hand experience in dealing with the prison industrial complex.
Myrka Zambrano (she/her) — St. Paul

Myrka Zambrano is an ACLU Smart Justice Fellow dedicated to advancing fairness and accountability within the criminal legal system. With a strong commitment to community engagement and advocacy, she works to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. Her passion for justice and equity drives her efforts to challenge systemic barriers and promote lasting change.