Standing up for what’s right, advocating for those in need, and fighting for equality, those are just some of the principles the Center for Law and Justice in Albany was founded on in 1985.

The civil rights organization was founded by Dr. Alice Green, a fierce advocate for social justice, civil rights, and community empowerment. She passed away in August 2024 at the age of 84.

For more than 30 years, Dr. Green dedicated her life to challenging systemic racism, promoting equity, and uplifting marginalized voices. She left a lasting impact on many people with her hard work and commitment to social justice.

One of the people who she influenced and worked closely with is Ta-Sean Murdock, the director of the Center for Law and Justice.

“I grew up in Albany between Lark Street and Dove, and understand the needs of our community,” Murdock said. “But I also understand the ugly part, where we have the systemic issues, we see in underprivileged and marginalized communities that affect families on a daily basis.”

Murdock recognizes that he has big shoes to fill, but he is proud to carry on Dr. Green’s legacy.

“I’m going to try to maintain who I am in this role, but really continue to utilize the foundation she set, to make sure we continue the work,” Murdock said. “She set a very big and stable foundation in the work we are doing.”

Work that isn’t easy but it’s rewarding. There’s a lot of work to be done to make sure people have a platform to advocate for themselves and be seen as an equal, Murdock said.

“One of our goals is really to empower the community to speak out,” Murdock said. “There are individuals in our community who feel like they aren’t heard or that they can’t speak about issues they’re facing in their communities, especially people of color who feel like the traumas that they are facing are a direct result of government, a direct result of systemic barriers.”

In addition to being the director of the Center for Law and Justice and a tireless civil rights advocate, Murdock is also a father, husband, entrepreneur, and author. He has a passion for helping and inspiring others.

“I’ve been privileged to be in community work for over 20 years,” Murdock said. “A large part of that I spent working with youth, supporting youth and recreational and social programming, and then slowly transitioned into community advocacy work specific to individuals and communities of need.”

Using his knowledge and experience working with kids and teens, Murdock published two children’s books.

“The first one is called “I Can and I Will” and that’s centered around what kids want to be when they’re older,” Murdock said. “It’s important to talk about careers, but it’s important to talk about how you can do multiple things.”

“I Can and I Will” was published in 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic.

“The second one is called “I Am Brave and Bright,” Murdock said. “It’s an affirmation book for kids who are bullied.”

“I Am Brave and Bright” was published in 2024 and Murdock says he has another one in the works.

“Every book that I write is really meant to be an inspiration for a young person who might be going through traumas or difficulties,” Murdock said. “I’m hoping that book will be just enough to get them to be the doctor or lawyer they want to be, and also overcome some of the negative obstacles they might be facing.”

Since taking on his leadership role at the Center for Law and Justice, Murdock says he has spent time reorganizing and realigning programs and services.

“We know that we can’t change everything in the system, but we’re going to work our hardest to support and advocate for changes, especially those that affect communities of color.” Murdock said.

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