Children’s Defense Fund builds community so young people grow up with dignity, hope, and joy.
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We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.
About Us
Hall-Proctor Institute
Hall-Proctor Institute 2023 brought together advocates, thinkers, and leaders to explore pathways for racial and economic justice. This transformative gathering at CDF Haley Farm delves into crucial discussions, fostering collaboration and inspiring action for a more equitable future.
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Young People Lead Podcast
The podcast aims to demonstrate how young people can and should lead by telling their stories of how youth are transforming policies for the better and examining research on the policies that most affect them.
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CDF Celebrates 50 Years
Children's Defense Fund's 2023 Policy Forum and Celebration of Joy at Howard University, Washington, D.C., marked our 50th and 30th Anniversaries of CDF Freedom Schools®. This event, focusing on health, early childhood development, communities, economic mobility, and civic engagement, united various community members for two days of learning, networking, and growth.
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60 For 60: Protecting the Freedom to Read in Honor of the Freedom Summer of 1964
We are looking to recruit 60 authors, illustrators, and photographers to serve as Harambee read aloud guests at program sites across the country.
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30 Years of CDF Freedom Schools®
In 2023, CDF Freedom Schools® National Training united passionate educators, advocates, and youth leaders. This annual event equips attendees with tools, knowledge, and a shared commitment to children and youth, promoting literacy and creating positive change in communities nationwide.
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For Our Children: Honoring Juneteenth by Asserting the Freedom to Read
On June 19, 1865, Union troops delivered the news to enslaved people in Galveston, TX, that they were free. But this “news” wasn’t exactly new.…
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Statement: Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio Remembers the Legacy of Brigid Kelly
Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio is saddened to learn of the passing of its friend and former Advisory Board member Brigid Kelly. Brigid died Tuesday evening after a two-year battle with cancer. …
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Education Equity
CDF-Ohio State of School Discipline Report 2024
This report describes the state of exclusionary school discipline practices in Ohio as a contributing factor to the community to prison pipeline.…
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Child Poverty
Children’s Defense Fund Statement on 2024 State of the Union
Last night, President Biden presented a vision for building a nation where all children can thrive, from crucial interventions to provide children and youth with high-quality early learning experiences to economic and community interventions that create conditions for young people to grow up with dignity, hope, and joy. …
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Find a CDF Freedom Schools® Site
At CDF Freedom Schools, we’re not just educating. We’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. We’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound. Find a CDF Freedom Schools site near you.
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Subscribe to “For Our Children”
Sign up to receive the weekly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.
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CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, shares insights, challenges, and hopes for the future in “For Our Children.”CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, offers a personal perspective on challenges, victories, and the path ahead in “For Our Children.” Delve into a unique narrative that guides our mission, celebrates milestones, and navigates the journey toward a brighter tomorrow. Explore now for an inside connection to our vision—where the story of our commitment to children and youth unfolds.
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