Freedom Fellowship

A paid 6-month intensive social justice leadership program for Black and Brown youth ages 14-17 from Chicago. The program brings together 25 young people from across the city to explore issues of injustice, gain skills in leadership and activism, and gain experience taking action for racial justice. With over 300 alumni over the last 17 years, the Freedom Fellowship is described as a transformational experience.

Program Structure

Summer Leadership Institute (4 weeks): July 8 - August 2, Monday through Friday, 10am to 4pm

• Learning topics: healing and wellness, community-building, anti-oppression practices, leadership, historical social movements, and community organizing
• Overnight healing retreat included
• Study issues of systemic oppression including racism, heterosexism, food justice, school to prison pipeline, sexism

Fall Organizing and Strategy Sessions (September - December): Bi-weekly meetings

• Fellows split into two cohorts to develop Group Action Plans:
  • Arts in Activism: infusing art into existing social justice campaigns, curating art shows, creating workshops fusing art and social movements
  • Fair & Just Schools: addressing zero tolerance policies, homophobia in schools, school policy changes, removing police from schools, etc.

Eligibility

• Young people ages 14-17 from Chicago
• Must identify as a person of color (Black and Brown youth)
• Must be able to commit to all program components
• Students in summer school are unable to participate

Compensation

Stipend: $1,000 total

• First payment: $600 upon completion of 4-week Summer Leadership Institute
• Second payment: $400 in December upon completion of group action plan
• Public transportation, breakfast, lunch, and field trip costs are provided by Chicago Freedom School

Contact Information

• Email: info@chicagofreedomschool.org
• Phone: 312-435-1201
• Address: 1727 S. Indiana Ave. Suite G02A, Chicago, IL 60616
• Website: chicagofreedomschool.org
• Space is wheelchair accessible

Application Process

1. Submit an online application by the deadline
2. Alumni will lead rolling interviews with incoming Fellows
3. Applicants are selected on a rolling basis

Required Materials

• Online application form (specific required materials not detailed in provided content)

Submission Format

• Online application submission