Your Advocate for Civil Rights and Community Support
A bridge to vital community resources
Reclaiming Rights and Restoring Dignity
Citizen Nine26 is dedicated to helping people who have experienced injustices as a result of government misconduct. Our core mission is built upon five fundamental pillars:
Connect
We bridge the gap between those seeking justice and the resources they need. By facilitating access to public records, we help you uncover the truth and gain clarity.
Advocate
We stand by your side, advocating for your rights and ensuring that your voice is heard. Our team works tirelessly to support your journey towards justice.
Educate
Knowledge is power. We provide comprehensive information and guidance to help you navigate the complexities of public records and understand your legal options.
Listen
Your experiences and needs are at the heart of what we do. We listen with empathy and compassion, offering support that is tailored to your unique situation.
Assist
From obtaining records to connecting with community resources, our dedicated team offers hands-on assistance to help you move forward with confidence.
OUR INSPIRATION
A Personal Journey to Justice
We are inspired to do this work by our own experiences with law enforcement and government agencies. Our founder, Jim Leighty, lost his good friend Craig Johnson to police violence in 2017. As he learned to investigate, research, and obtain public records regarding his friend’s death, Jim wished there were someone to help him navigate the system and guide him on his journey to truth and understanding. From that desire, Citizen Nine26 was born.
Board of Directors
PRESIDENT
Debbie Novak
Debbie is an open records advocate in Spokane, Washington. She is a member of the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability and Spokane Community Against Racism. In 2019, Debbie’s son, David Novak, was killed by the Spokane Police Department. She has three AA degrees in Management, Marketing, and General Business and she works every day to bring police accountability to the forefront. Most importantly, she is a mother and a nana to her ten grandchildren.
Vice President
Anwar Peace
Anwar Peace is a seasoned advocate for police accountability and civil rights. He Chairs the City of Spokane Human Rights Commission and has over 24 years of experience supporting families impacted by police violence. An active member of the Washington Coalition on Police Accountability and Spokane Community Against Racism, Anwar lobbies for statewide reform and addresses racial disparities. He also serves as a Fellow at JustLead Washington, collaborating for equity and justice. Anwar’s diverse background includes roles as a Community Health Worker, Housing Specialist, and Peer Support Navigator, all aimed at removing barriers for marginalized individuals.
Secretary
Samantha Lockwood
Samantha Lockwood has an MA in psychology and works at a mental health facility in Spokane, Washington as a case manager helping low-income elders and people with disabilities stay in their own homes. She is a member of the DEI committee at her organization, working to help clients feel welcomed, included, and appropriately cared for. She is passionate about amplifying the voices of those who have been historically silenced and helping to build a safe community for all. As a mom she cares deeply about the health and well-being of future generations.
Executive Director
Jim Leighty
Jim Leighty is an Open Records Advocate in Spokane, Washington and a disabled U.S. Army Veteran. He has been assisting people in their quest for answers regarding their encounters with law enforcement since 2017. Jim is a member of the Washington State Coalition for Police Accountability and the Police Accountability Organizer for Spokane Community Against Racism. He is working with these groups to advocate for police reform in the state of Washington. Jim also maintains a database of public records he has personally obtained regarding police use of force. This database is free to anyone who requests access.
Treasurer
Julia Schuman
Julia is passionate about working with Citizen Nine26, as in 2019, her nephew, David Novak, was killed by the Spokane Police Department. She has an AA degree in Business. During the summer she enjoys kayaking.