What is The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice?  

Established in 2015, The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice is a 501c3 civic engagement table for the state of Louisiana. 

Our coalition believes in the power of leadership and taking action to fight for a more just and equitable system—our framework centers BIPOC communities in policy, organizing, and advocacy. 

The goal of ‘She Leads’ is to equip women of color with the knowledge and information they need to find their voice and learn where and when to use it. Investing in women and women-led activism has the potential to change the trajectory for children in low-income communities across the nation. The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice supports community-based activism and grassroots leadership development through several avenues, all of which empower citizens to address classism, racism, and marginalization in their own lives and communities. Too often, their voices are ignored in the traditional, top-down structures of power. Through the She Leads Community Activist Fellowship Program, we are looking to support dynamic community leaders who make a difference in their communities but don’t have the resources to enhance their leadership and work. Our grantmaking philosophy is simple:  invest in women who are working to build their communities through activism, and we change the course of life for under-resourced children, families, communities, cities, and ultimately the state of Louisiana.

What grants are available?

The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice (PCEJ)  will initially make investments in individual women activists through a fellowship model called the She Leads: Community Activist Fellowship Program. The Fellowship program will award up to $3,000 to women activists in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Lake Charles, and the River Parishes (other areas will be considered). 

How are decisions made?

The Power Coalition will use a Community Review Committee comprised of community leaders, activists, professionals, and others with a broad range of knowledge and skills in their respective communities. Over time, we will include past fellows as a part of the Community Review Committees.

How do I know if I am eligible to apply for the She Leads: Community Activist Fellowship Program?

Following are the criteria for the fellowship:

• Applicants must be women, 18 years or older
• Applicants must be living in the community where their work is taking place.
• Applicants should reside in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Lake Charles, or the River Parishes–Other areas will be considered. 
• Applicants must be directly affected by and/or have significant direct experience with the issues, policies, practices, and/or systems that is the focus of their activism efforts.

Can organizations apply on behalf of an individual?

The She Leads: Community Activist Fellowships will be awarded to individuals, not organizations.  The Power Coalition will operate as the host for the fellows.  However, fellows have the option of choosing a host organization in their respective cities.  In this case, the host organization must meet the criteria established by the Power Coalition.

How long is the fellowship?

The She Leads: Community Activist Fellowship is an 8 to 9 month fellowship.

Is the fellowship virtual or in-person?

Most of the trainings and capacity building is virtual in the evening, but the opening and closing sessions are in person and required.

Where can I get additional information?

If you have questions or need additional information, please email the She Leads team at pcsheleads@powercoalition.org.