
Send Mia to ACLU Training in D.C.
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Mia has been accepted into ACLU's National Advocacy Institute and is raising money for travel and tuition expenses. The ACLU National Advocacy Institute is a selective summer program that brings high school students to Washington, D.C. for a week of hands-on learning in policy, law, and civil liberties. Hosted by the American Civil Liberties Union, the program prepares young leaders to speak up, take action, and make a lasting impact in their communities.
About Mia
Mia is a high school student, youth advocate, and community organizer from Richmond Hill, Georgia. Her passion for social justice began early—at just eight years old, she attended the 2016 Women’s March, an experience that opened her eyes to inequality and inspired a lifelong commitment to advocacy. Since then, she’s grown into a bold leader who isn’t afraid to speak out, take initiative, and challenge the status quo.
Mia is the founder and president of the Young Democrats of Bryan County where she organizes events that amplify youth voices in politics. She also serves on the Planned Parenthood Teen Action Group, is a Youth Leader for the National Youth Leadership Council, and previously co-produced a podcast highlighting immigrant voices through FeLT Education. Whether she’s canvassing, leading workshops, or debating policy in Model UN, Mia shows up with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
Mia applied to the ACLU National Advocacy Institute to strengthen her knowledge of civil liberties, sharpen her organizing skills, and learn how to build effective relationships with policymakers. Her goal? To create lasting change in her community and beyond, and ultimately pursue a career in law focused on protecting marginalized voices.
About the Program
The NAI is more than just a summer program; it's an immersive week-long experience that equips high school students with the tools and knowledge to become effective advocates for civil rights and liberties. Here's what participants can expect:
- Engagement with Experts: Students interact directly with ACLU lawyers, lobbyists, community activists, and other experts working to defend civil rights and civil liberties.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program includes classroom sessions, lectures, site visits, and policy discussions that delve into issue advocacy, legal strategy, and real-world political decision-making.
- Hands-On Advocacy Training: Participants learn about grassroots organizing, professional advocacy, and legal activism, culminating in activities like organizing rallies and engaging in policy discussions.
- Community Building: Students form life-long bonds with fellow advocates, creating a supportive network of peers committed to social justice.
Organizer
Misty Popovich
Organizer
Richmond Hill, GA