As we enter the last few days of real deal summer, I want to celebrate this year’s phenomenal Summer Leadership Institute.
Dozens of young femme-identified folks logged on from Fresno and Oakland and San Diego (and lots of places in between) to hear each other out, learn new skills, and nurture their own creativity.
Here’s how Bria Woodland described her experience in the Summer Leadership Institute:
I loved the energy of each session. The stories that were told were so beautiful and authentic. It really emphasized how important it is to take care of yourself when being an advocate for others. I have been using what I learned in SLI in my writing and my presentations to my school administrators and my work admin.
Over the four weeks of the Summer Leadership Institute, friendships were formed, art was made, and advocacy skills were leveled up. It was a beautiful thing to witness.
As one participant put it:
My time in SLI has changed my self, purpose, and passion by giving me the tools to put my story onto a piece of paper or canvas. I learned a little bit about myself and more about others. It’s nice to know I’m not the only youth who wants to organize for change.
Together, we’re gonna keep building and growing and learning together during our monthly meet ups so be on the look out for so some fierce intersectional feminists. I’m sure these folks are going to be rabble rousing in school board meetings, taking up space at the town hall, and just generally making good trouble.