Aniyah Vines is a second-year law student at Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) and currently serves as the Warrant Clinic Coordinator for Black Voters Matter. Her path to AJMLS began at Howard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in both Political Science and Criminology, graduating magna cum laude in 2022. During her time at Howard, she served as NAACP Education Committee Chairwoman and later as NAACP President, roles that strengthened her dedication to advocacy and community organizing.
Aniyah’s commitment to justice runs deep. Her passion for social justice was shaped by personal experience after the senseless murder of her cousin, Delrawn Smalls, by an off-duty police officer in Brooklyn in 2016. That moment inspired her to turn grief into action and dedicate her life to creating meaningful change.
When asked what inspired her to pursue a career in law, Aniyah shared that she is motivated by the thought of her future children and the kind of world they will grow up in:
“Knowing that I can potentially better the legal system so that justice is the actual foundation of the justice system motivates me to continue through both the good and the bad moments,” she said.
Her proudest moment in law school so far came on her very first day:
“Walking into my first class during my 1L year meant that I was supposed to be here, and that I had a chance to make myself and my family proud.”
At AJMLS, Aniyah continues to build on her passion for advocacy through her coursework, leadership, and community involvement. She currently serves as President of the Real Estate Law Society, Academic Chairwoman of the Black Law Students Association, and Director of the Peer Mentoring Program. She is also a two-time Dean’s List recipient and has earned CALI Awards in Legal Writing, Research, and Analysis I and II.
Outside the classroom, Aniyah’s role with Black Voters Matter allows her to merge legal knowledge with direct community impact. She works closely with local officials and community partners to organize warrant clinics that help individuals lift outstanding warrants without fear of arrest. Her work opens doors for people to engage more fully in civic life and reclaim opportunities often restricted by unresolved legal issues.
Aniyah also recently completed a litigation internship with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, where she conducted legal research and supported attorneys on civil rights matters involving education equity and criminal justice reform.
Through every role and experience, Aniyah remains focused on her long-term goal: to fight for justice not only in the community but also in the courtroom. Her journey is one of purpose, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in the power of law to make a difference.