What is the significance of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) in the book?

The significance of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) in "Just Mercy" is primarily rooted in its mission to provide legal representation for people who have been wrongfully condemned or unfairly treated by the criminal justice system. Bryan Stevenson, the founder of EJI, highlights numerous cases throughout the book that illustrate the impact of systemic injustices, such as racial bias, poverty, and inadequate legal representation.

EJI's work showcases the critical need for advocacy in addressing these injustices and emphasizes the importance of fighting for those who are often marginalized and overlooked. By focusing on the stories of individuals who have suffered due to these systemic failures, the book aims to raise awareness about the flaws in the criminal justice system and advocates for reform. The myriad of cases EJI takes on, including the story of Walter McMillian, serves to demonstrate the organization's commitment to justice and its impactful role in challenging wrongful convictions and inhumane treatment within the legal system.