Maine needs leaders who understand the history and legacy of structural racism in this country and our state. On March 22 and 23 of this year, we are hosting a Racial Equity Institute Youth Workshop.  The Racial Equity Institute is a black-owned business in North Carolina that has developed a process to "help leaders and organizations who want to proactively understand and address racism, both in their organization and in the community where the organization is working." They operate with the belief that "racism is a fierce, ever-present, challenging force, one which has structured the thinking, behavior, and actions of individuals and institutions since the beginning of U.S. history. To understand racism and effectively begin dismantling it requires an equally fierce, consistent, and committed effort."  

This workshop will bring together 50 young people from southern Maine to develop a similar lens and language around race and racism. Young people are already making the changes that this state needs; this training is to help inform and guide their paths, and offer a jumping-off point for connections and organizing.

While many schools and organizations are providing resources, we are committed to, and asking our communities to help insure, that all students can be a part of this work free of charge. Your donations will help cover the registration fees that this workshop demands. If we raise more than our goal, that money will go to funding future workshops and the organizing that these young people lead moving forward. Please help us reach our goal by March 22nd. Your donation will help spread a wave of connection across difference that is much needed in our state and our world. Believe in Maine's young people, and help our state move forward, together, ready and eager to face injustice with collective strength and knowledge.