As Kentucky continues implementing the juvenile justice reforms passed in 2014 and seeks to build upon that work with additional policy changes during the 2019 Kentucky legislative session, it is imperative that the perspectives and input of people of color are sought and incorporated, as youth of color are over-represented throughout our youth justice system. The Youth Justice Leadership Institute is one opportunity to grow emerging advocates of color into strong leaders who can help fulfill that critical role.

The Institute is a robust, year-long fellowship program run by the National Juvenile Justice Network that focuses on cultivating, elevating, and supporting advocates of color. Its goal is to help build the foundation for a more effective juvenile justice reform movement by developing a strong base of advocates and organizers who reflect the communities most affected by juvenile justice system practices and policies. The selected fellows develop their leadership and advocacy skills through two fully financed retreats, mentoring, and frequent distance learning opportunities.

Do you know an advocate or organizer of color who wants to set the youth justice world on fire? Tell them to apply to the 2019-2020 Youth Justice Leadership Institute. The National Juvenile Justice Network will be hosting two informational webinars on March 21 and April 4, led by the Institute’s coordinator, Diana Onley-Campbell. To learn more about the Institute or register for one of the webinars, click here.

Applications are due April 29, 2019.