Nation Outside
Cecilia Zavala, Executive Director
Unlocked Futures
Nation Outside’s mission is to drive policy and practice innovation that builds transformative systems of support for criminal legal system-impacted individuals, families and communities.
Year Founded: 2014
Nation Outside is a movement led by those directly impacted by the criminal legal system, advancing systemic change through policy reform, peer-led support, and civic engagement that uplifts and empowers system-impacted individuals and communities.
Nation Outside believes that lasting change begins with those who have lived experience in the criminal legal system. By fostering peer leadership, trauma-informed reentry support, and meaningful civic participation, we equip individuals to drive solutions that break down systemic inequities. Our work centers on removing barriers to housing, employment, and education while amplifying community voices to reshape policies and practices that perpetuate harm.
Nation Outside was founded in December 2014 by a collective of Michigan advocates who shared a bold vision: to elevate the leadership and lived experience of system-impacted people and dismantle barriers that hinder opportunity. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a powerful statewide movement—leading transformative initiatives and advancing dignity, opportunity, and justice for those most affected by the criminal legal system.
Cecilia Zavala
Executive Director
