Gender Justice, Leadership and Civic Engagement
Apply for the Gender Justice Advocacy Fellowship!
by Kayla Bacote on Sep 14, 2021
The South Carolina Gender Justice Advocacy Fellowship is a 6-month-long learning experience hosted by WREN. A first-of-its kind program in our state, the fellowship’s first cohort of advocates will begin meeting monthly in January 2021. The Fellowship will provide a space for participants to reimagine advocacy in a way which reflects a broader representation of our community’s perspectives.
Fellows will gain access to tools and skills needed to influence public policy in South Carolina, while engaging in the legislative process during an active legislative session.
Fellows will be welcomed into the fellowship during a virtual orientation in December. They will receive an overview of the program’s content and logistics, a synopsis of the urgent need which led to the creation of the program, and a brief introduction to WREN. Sessions are each themed with a component of advocacy and will feature guest presenters, group activities, and hands-on advocacy experience.
Applications for participation in the inaugural class of fellows are now open. Applications close October 1st.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should apply?
South Carolina residents 18 years of age and older who are interested in reshaping advocacy in our state and engaging in community and practices which lead to a more equitable and just place to live for women, girls, and gender-expansive people.
How much does the fellowship cost?
There is no monetary investment required for participation in the fellowship. Financial support may be offered to participants who anticipate certain barriers to participation.
Do fellows receive payment/a stipend for participation?
While compensation is not offered for participation, fellows will receive accommodations for travel and lodging as necessary, and meals will be provided during sessions.
When will sessions be held?
Session dates for the fellowship will be determined and announced later. Class sessions last for 1.5 days (12 hours), once monthly. Most sessions will be held in Columbia and there is the possibility of a session in Charleston.
Which topics will the fellowship cover?
- Session 1 (1.5 days) January 2022
Theme: INTRO TO GENDER JUSTICE, ADVOCACY, & LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY - Session 2 (1.5 days) February 2022
Theme: COMMUNICATIONS AND ADVOCACY - Session 3 (1.5 days) March 2022
Theme: SOUTH CAROLINA STATEHOUSE & LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY - Session 4 (1/1.5 days) April 2022
Theme: COMMUNITY ADVOCACY AND ACTIVISM - Session 5 (1 day) May 2022
Theme: RESOURCING THE WORK & ASSESSING CAPACITY
CELEBRATION/PRESENTATION OF CLASS PROJECTS
Will classes be held in person?
We are monitoring COVID activity in our state closely. Classes are currently planned as in-person experiences but are subject to change if need be. WREN is committed to taking necessary precautions to support the safety and well-being of staff and participants.
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the program in October.
For more information, please email Kayla Bacote at kmallett@scwren.org