Education & Student Advocacy
As part of our student advocacy work, our youth began documenting the experiences of Arab and Arabic-speaking students in East County. Our first report, based on focus groups held from January to June 2024, highlights the experiences of students navigating school, culture, religion, and resettlement, especially during Ramadan. This report uplift youth voices and offers insights into the challenges students face in school.
Students Experience Reports
We’re committed to building bridges and creating opportunities for our youth. We partner with organizations like The Center on Policy Initiatives, Youth Organize California, NNAAC, and others to connect our youth with paid fellowships. These fellowships offer hands-on experience while equipping youth with tools, skills, and leadership development rooted in transformative youth organizing. Youth get to complete their fellowships within their own communities, at Majdal, and gain valuable experience but also strengthen their communities.
Advocacy Fellowships
As part of our professional development work, we facilitated sessions with teachers, counselors, and educators across SDUSD schools. We trained teachers on using instructional materials and resources to integrate Arab narratives into a variety of subjects. We also engaged counselors from 73 of SDUSD’s 300 schools in critical conversations on equity, inclusion, and support for Arab and Muslim students.
Professional Development
As members of the SDRCC we serve on the Young Leaders Council (YLC). The YLC is a a group of 10 youth from 9 ethnic community-based organizations (ECBOs) working together to uplift underserved communities. YLC members receive training in advocacy, community engagement, and program development, while actively participating in systems change work.