Freedom Fellowship
CARE at Work hosts the Freedom Fellowship, a 10-week immersive opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience working with activists and community organizers involved in the movement for civic and economic justice for Black workers.
Theory to Action
The Freedom Fellowship is a transformative, 10-week, hands-on program for students ready to move from theory to practice. Rooted in the fight for economic justice, the Fellowship places participants alongside Black organizers, activists, and community leaders who are building powerful movements for Black workers across California.
Learning in the Movement
The Freedom Fellowship serves as a launchpad for future movement leaders. Drawing from We Gon’ Be Alright, the Freedom Fellowship Kick-Off, and fellows’ lived experiences, participants apply their learning in real time by supporting Black worker centers and partner organizations advancing racial and economic equity. Placement sites include: Los Angeles Black Worker Center, Inland Empire Black Worker Center, AFGE, the California Democratic Party African American Caucus, Essie Justice Group, the Los Angeles Food Policy Council, the Office of Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, Southern California Black Worker Hub, LA Commons, Center at Sierra Health Foundation, and Black Lives Matter Grassroots.
Building Leaders for Economic Justice
At its core, UCLA CARE at Work is committed to training the next generation of economic justice leaders. The Freedom Fellowship creates space to strengthen leadership skills, build community, and organize with purpose—fostering growth, collaboration, and inspiration among emerging Black organizers. The Freedom Fellowship isn’t just a program—it’s a shared movement experience. Fellows are encouraged to take pride in their contributions, embrace the challenges and lessons, and leave with the tools and motivation to continue fighting for economic equity and collective liberation.
