The Dandelion Rising Leadership Institute (DRLI) is a leadership development program geared towards high school aged youth and led by formerly incarcerated organizers. DRLI is dedicated to building the leadership, capacity, and skillset of students affected by mass incarceration and youth survivors of deputy abuse. DRLI prioritizes building the leadership of those directly affected because they have the most insight and the highest stakes invested in changing the system. Communities most affected by sheriff abuse and incarceration – namely Black and Brown communities – have long histories of fighting to end state violence and the DRLI program not only teaches that history but challenges students to participate in the current moment.

DRLI is rooted in Dignity and Power Now’s project the Coalition to End Sheriff Violence and youth members are encouraged to participate in strategizing and give public comment at Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission meetings. The current 6-week DRLI curriculum covers topics including know your rights, the history of Los Angeles neighborhoods and rebellions, mapping elected officials, how to build local power, divestment from jails and reinvestment in communities, and an art and social justice field trip.

Dignity and Power Now has been visiting Los Angeles area learning facilities with DRLI since 2014 including CALO YouthBuild, Firebaugh High School, Dorsey High School, Hawkins High School, and St. Anne’s.

If you want to participate in DRLI please complete this application or email the completed form to the DPN Campaign and Organizing Manager James Nelson at jamesn@dignityandpowernow.org.

If you are a teacher interested in hosting DRLI please contact James Nelson.

Read the latest blogs featuring the Dandelion Rising Leadership Institute!