Juvenile Justice Network Seeks Advocates of Color for Youth Justice Leadership Institute
Know an advocate or organizer of color who wants to transform the juvenile justice field?
Each year, the National Juvenile Justice Network (NJJN) selects 10 diverse professionals from across the country to participate in the Youth Justice Leadership Institute, a yearlong leadership development curriculum focused on youth justice reform.
NJJN — a Casey grantee — is accepting applications for its next class through April 29, 2019.
The Institute increases the capacity and effectiveness of advocates and organizers of color to make system change across the country. Participants will gain a deeper knowledge of juvenile justice systems, learn about effective advocacy and organizing techniques and work with mentor advocates who are advancing meaningful system reforms. They will also form peer learning and support groups and complete an advocacy project to apply their skills in practical ways on behalf of youth in trouble with the law.
Applicants should be adults of color working in the juvenile justice field or within grassroots community organizations. They might also have juvenile justice system experience — gained firsthand or via a family member.
“Leaders of color connected to, proud of and hopeful for their communities are integral to the fundamental changes needed for true justice,” says Sarah Bryer, NJJN’s executive director. “We developed the Youth Justice Leadership Institute to elevate, support and follow the leadership of those most directly affected, in order to achieve a truly just system.”
Past participants have engaged in advocacy projects, such as improving law enforcement response to domestic violence in Phoenix and increasing effective engagement with East African youth and families in two Minnesota counties.
