Bryan Epps

As chief program and impact officer at Sojourners, I lead the strategy and execution of the organization’s mobilizing and advocacy programs, ensuring our work advances justice through a faith-rooted lens. My focus includes program development, systems creation, communications, and fostering partnerships that strengthen Sojourners’ role as a leader in progressing justice.

With nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, organizing, and policy, I have dedicated my career to advancing equity and systemic change. Before joining Sojourners, I led and consulted for organizations such as The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, Equal Justice USA, and the Black Innovation Alliance; I also served in public policy roles at the local level. 

A writer and speaker, my reflections on healing, masculinity, and justice have been featured widely, including in my Them article, “America’s Gun Violence Problem Is a Symptom of Toxic Masculinity.” I studied urban policy at The New School’s Milano School and history at Rutgers University. I am a single Black queer father, a certified trauma-informed leadership coach, and a joyful believer in liberation through love, structure, and storytelling.

I grew up in Newark, New Jersey, and attend Bethany Baptist Church, an experience that deeply informs my work in abolition, education, food security, economic equity, and queer justice. My approach is always rooted in creating sustainable systems for impact and I lead with joy, strategy, and a commitment to building transformative change.

For fun, I enjoy the outdoors, food, writing, and exploring art and culture in the greater D.C. area.

Some of Bryan's articles include:

• “America’s Gun Violence Problem Is a Symptom of Toxic Masculinity” – Them
• Malcolm X Revisited

•  Kendrick Lamar’s Halftime Performance Wasn’t Just Resistance - It Was a Blueprint for America’s Identity