Writer and director Reginald Hudlin has joined the board of directors of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.

"Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy," he said in a statement. "As Americans, we all need to stand united to protect our liberties. I’m flattered to be asked to join an organization that does just that."

The former president of entertainment for BET, Hudlin directed House Party, Boomerang and The Great White Hype, and produced Quentin Tarantino's Oscar-nominated Django Unchained. He also penned a multi-year run of Marvel's Black Panther, and wrote and executive produced its animated adaptation.

Hudlin most recently teamed with co-founders Denys Cowan and Derek Dingle to relaunch Milestone Media.

He joins a CBLDF board that includes Larry Marder, Jennifer L. Holm, Paul Levitz, Jeff Smith, Jeff Abraham, Dale Cendali, Milton Griepp, Katherine Keller, Andrew McIntire and Chris Powell.