Justin Lock
Executive Director, Not In Our Town
2024
Justin Lock is the Executive Director of Not In Our Town (NIOT), a movement of people across the country working to build safe, inclusive communities for all. Justin brings deep experience in conflict resolution and community engagement to his role as NIOT’s Executive Director. He previously led the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Relations Service (CRS), “America’s Peacemaker,” which was created by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to help communities address hate crimes and identity-based conflicts. At CRS, Justin led nationwide efforts to mediate tensions, respond to bias incidents, and support communities in crisis. His work underscored both the corrosive impact of hate, eroding trust, safety, and civic bonds, and the possibility of healing when people respond with honesty, solidarity, and resilience. At NIOT, Justin is committed to equipping local leaders with resources to counter hate, strengthening school-based initiatives, expanding community networks, and amplifying stories of civic courage that inspire action nationwide.
The Summit offers a unique opportunity to confront the corrosive influence of bigotry and hatred in our society. In order for us to address these challenges, we first must acknowledge their painful and destructive impact in our communities and in our country. I am grateful to serve as a Global Advisor to this timely and powerful initiative.
