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Over the past five years, the need for – and power of – young people’s leadership and action in the civic sphere has been palpable. Whether challenging the criminalization of youth of color in schools and communities, advancing the rights of immigrant and undocumented youth and families, or mobilizing to challenge current gun policies, young people have disrupted the status quo, advanced a bold vision for equity and justice, and held those with governing power, from city councils and school boards to the halls of Congress, accountable in order to change unjust laws and policies.

Young People have been at the center of movements for progressive social change throughout the history of our nation. There are a number of ways in which young people become involved in change movements. Some may have a generational exposure to civic activism through their families; others may have a critical awakening during their college years; others may choose to participate in the political electoral process.