It all started when…

Since 2014, Planting People, Growing Justice™ has been the guiding principle of Dr. Tyner’s leadership development and community engagement work.  This model developed by Dr. Tyner focuses on the future of social change and community-building.

Planting People

Planting people is an organic process, which yields a great harvest over time. It starts from the ground up as a seed is planted until it takes root. This seed represents resistance against marginalization and oppression in order to further the cause of social justice. The seed also signifies a partnership between lawyers and community stakeholders. The ultimate result is creating social change which equates to reaping a harvest of justice, fairness, and equity.

Growing Justice

Growing Justice is the materialization of planting people. Collectively, community members across the world are applying these principles to promote justice and the common good. This process of social change can be envisioned through the continual growth of the Banyan tree.  The Banyan tree as a metaphor illuminates the image of the partnership between lawyers and community partners working together in solidarity to eradicate marginalization. Unique to this tree is its ability to grow upwards since new roots are formed from the branches.  Each community member represents a branch as their leadership voice begins to emerge. These branches grow upward together and are intertwined as they exercise their united power and utilize their voices to advocate for social change.