John Lewis Young Leaders

Introduction

The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) program, established in 2017, is a transformative undergraduate fellowship initiative designed to empower students to become effective leaders in social justice and civic engagement. Inspired by the enduring friendship between John Lewis and Robert Kennedy, the program is committed to building a more just and equitable future by nurturing the next generation of human rights defenders.

Program Overview

The JLYL program is a year-long fellowship that provides college students with essential skills for community organizing and civic engagement. Fellows actively engage their campus and local communities in human rights work through a comprehensive capstone project. The program offers a range of support, including grassroots organizing workshops, personalized mentorship from RFK Human Rights staff, financial assistance, and access to an extensive network of professionals, peers, and alumni in the field of human rights.

Becoming a Fellow

What We Are Looking For

The JLYL program seeks highly motivated students interested in pursuing a career in organizing work. Ideal candidates are self-starters unafraid to challenge the status quo, envisioning themselves as human rights defenders with a commitment to making a positive impact. Priority is given to students from marginalized backgrounds who face systemic challenges hindering their path to becoming advocates for human rights.

Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate student
Enrolled in a 2 or 4-year accredited program
Enrolled in a university located in the United States

Preference Is Given To

Students attending an HBCU, HSI, or HMSI
Students located in the southern and midwestern United States
Students from marginalized communities

Responsibilities

As a JLYL fellow, participants are expected to:

Attend the 3-day JLYL retreat with organizing workshops
Engage in monthly 1-on-1 coaching sessions with RFK Human Rights staff
Attend all monthly cohort meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month
Complete a capstone presentation detailing their project at the fellowship’s conclusion

Fellowship Benefits

$2,000 professional stipend (paid in two $1,000 installments over the fall and spring semesters)
Agency to focus on elevating social issues
$1,000 in funding for events and activities related to the capstone project
Access to resources from community organizers and activists
Paid-for retreat in summer 2024 (location TBD)

Anti-Discrimination Policy

The Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization strictly prohibits discrimination based on various characteristics. This commitment aligns with federal, state, and local laws, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment for all participants.