Equality New York (EQNY) and NYC Pride & Power provide the training and resources needed to help build the leadership of all LGBTQI New Yorkers. Our Advocacy Institutes provide the training needed to understand the theoretical and programmatic components of effective organizing, along with the tools needed to implement a successful campaign in local communities.

All classes are:

  • taught by expert organizers;
  • comprised of between 10-12 students;
  • online – due to COVD-19;
  • follow a core curriculum and include readings;
  • 100% tuition free (thanks to our generous donors).

We offer four unique tracks that are all taught virtually by seasoned advocates with participants from all over New York state.

Community Organizing Track (4 Weeks)

September 3, 2020 –  September 24, 2020
Thursday Evenings from 6PM-8PM

The Community Organizing training provides participants with an understanding of core organizing concepts by studying campaigns and movements throughout history. Each class highlights a practical organizing strategy which contributes to building a robust toolkit for participants. The course ends with each person presenting an outline for a grassroots advocacy effort they can implement in their community.

Outcomes:

  • Understand the successes and failures from previous organizing efforts;
  • Build a toolkit of strategies and tips for organizing locally;
  • Produce an outline for a local advocacy efforts;
  • Create a network of community organizers from around New York State.

Virtual Campaigns Track (4 Weeks)

September 5, 2020 – September 26, 2020
Saturday Afternoons from 11AM-1PM

The Organizing in the 21st Century: Virtual Campaigns training provides participants with an overview of what technology can do for mobilizing communities. Each class focuses on different tools and techniques in engaging people via virtual campaigns and programming. The course ends with each person presenting an outline for a virtual campaign that they can implement.

Outcomes:

  • Understand how to leverage technology to implement a successful campaign;
  • Leverage human psychology to increase participation in online/virtual campaigns;
  • Produce an outline for an online/virtual campaign or program;
  • Create a network of community organizers from around New York State.

Rapid Response Track (4 Weeks)

October 16, 2020 – November 6, 2020
Thursday Evenings from 6PM-8PM

The Rapid Response track trains participants on how to identify, engage, and implement a rapid response campaign or program in their community. Each class focuses on how to authentically engage community. The course ends with each person presenting an outline for a rapid response project that they can implement.

Outcomes:

  • Identify ways to engage community in decision making;
  • Understand how to implement a successful campaign;
  • Produce an outline for a rapid response campaign or program;
  • Create a network of community organizers from around New York State.

Applicant Guidelines

The EQNY Advocacy Institute is highly competitive and select candidates on their dedication and service to community rather than academic or merit based accomplishments.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, live in the state of New York, and demonstrate a commitment to improving their community.

Applicants who identify as Black or POC, Transgender/Non-binary, young people and/or women are highly encouraged to join us.

Deadline: Friday. August 1, 2020

APPLY NOW!