Fani T. Willis, District Attorney for Fulton County, Georgia, has earned her place on the Worthy 100 list for two exceptional reasons: her commitment to justly fulfilling her duties and her resilience in the face of racially charged abuse aimed at derailing the democratic process. Since assuming office on January 1, 2021, Willis has reshaped the criminal justice landscape of Fulton County. She has introduced innovative reforms, such as Fulton’s first pre-indictment diversion program, designed to give those who can benefit from a second chance the opportunity to earn one. She has also revolutionized the office’s transparency in law enforcement use-of-force cases, thereby fulfilling her commitment to make the criminal justice system in Fulton County more equitable and transparent.
However, her work has not come without personal cost. Willis and her family have been targets of doxing and threats, especially in light of her investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia. Despite numerous attempts at intimidation, including threats from congressional lawmakers and offensive, racially charged language, Willis remains undeterred. She has publicly stated that such threats are “a waste of time” and won’t deter her from her mission.
Unyielding in her quest for justice and unflappable in the face of hatred, Willis exemplifies both professional and personal integrity.
