The Darrow Creed

At Darrow, our values define how we operate, collaborate, and drive impact every day.

These values are the product of a deliberative democratic process undertaken once every three years by the full assembly of Darrow's people. Any member may put forward a value for consideration. From these proposals, a select number are advanced by secure vote and brought before the assembled company, where their sponsors rise to make their case in open address and all present are afforded time to challenge, persuade, and be persuaded. Adoption is rendered by formal physical ballot. 

This Creed, then, belongs to no single author - it is the law we write together, and the standard by which we hold one another accountable, so that justice may be more than a mission: a practice.

People First | We own our culture
I put human well-being at the center of everything I do. I’m responsible for practicing and evolving our culture, not just preaching it. I build towards our vision of a justice system everyone can trust. I treat each person as an entire world unto themselves, knowing that within them lies infinite potential beyond any current title, role, or status. I never pull rank on anyone. I care for the people around me. I respect their time. I respect my time. I treat all people with dignity. I put people first. 

Intentional Communication | I co-own every conversation I join 
‍I approach every conversation with good intentions towards others and towards myself. I declare my intentions and focus on finding a shared purpose with others, knowing every person is different from me. I speak clearly and honestly, so others can access my message easily. I listen. I do not interrupt. I know a smart conversation shares speaking time equally. I actively seek feedback, and openly invite others to speak. I embrace criticism, because our mission matters more than my personal image. I give feedback directly to the recipient. I don’t gossip. I respectfully disagree. I focus on solutions. I always leave room for others to surprise me. I end conversations with an agreement on the next actions. I am an intentional communicator.

Partner Centricity | We pursue justice together. 
I advocate for our partners. I always deliver beyond expectations. I work with urgency, because justice delayed is justice denied. I treat my partners as equals. I know obstacles are part of the path. I approach every interaction with a partner as an opportunity to learn. I fiercely protect partner trust with honesty and transparency. I ensure partners are well informed so they can make the best choices for themselves, driven by explainable data. I am an insider in our partner’s journey, celebrating their success as if it were my own. I think about our partners’ wants before making choices that will affect them. I put our partners at the center of my work.

Integrity Honesty & Transparency  | I live truthfully. 
I align my actions with my values. I back my statements with data. I honor my commitments, whether by delivering on time or openly acknowledging when I cannot. I listen to my instincts and speak my truth, even at a cost: no deal is worth our integrity. I encourage others to voice their perspectives. When the stakes are high I appoint a Darrow’s Advocate to develop a contrarian point of view. I reflect on my motivations and ensure potential conflicts of interest are on the table. I own up to my mistakes, do my best to make things right and grow from anything. I live with integrity.

Innovation: Radical Foresight | I am a pioneer. 
I embrace scarcity because hunger feeds creators and uncovers resources. I listen carefully and learn from every person and every experience. I discover value within the seemingly mundane. I know the most exciting phrase isn’t ‘Eureka!’, but ‘That’s funny…’; so I designate time to explore and experiment. I give others autonomy to surprise me, because independent diverse minds cultivate innovation. I support others' ideas and help them grow. I make room by saying “Yes, and”, treating other people’s ideas as if they were my own. I make space for wild ideas to grow wilder. I seek internal resources before external ones.  I’m always a learner, not a knower. I reject the status quo, because injustice thrives within indifference. I am an innovator.