Children's Defense Fund

We’re beaming with pride for our #BlackStudentLeadershipNetwork Ambassadors Jordan Freeman & D’Mya McCray! Last week, they led work at a freedom school honoring Black leaders & prepping literacy bags for Atlanta youth. Way to go, guys!

Want the latest on policies shaping the future for America’s children and youth? Follow Children’s Defense Fund on every platform to stay informed and inspired.

As the impacts of the federal cuts to Medicaid loom, #CDFTexas' Dr. Brandy Taylor-Dédé offers important insight in the @dallas_observer. She highlighted the role health care navigators play helping Texas families and how they may be affected by the budget: bit.ly/4nV53AU

Day 1 of #HallProctor2025 is in the books! Swipe through these amazing moments from our life-changing convening at #CDFHaleyFarm!

Tomorrow is the National Day of Social Action! #CDFFreedomSchools scholars nationwide will rise up to demand an education system that serves and empowers all children. Public education is a public good and it’s worth fighting for. Learn more to support: bit.ly/4lSzW7m

The application to become a 2025 Ella Baker Trainer is now OPEN. Are you a dynamic leader ready to train and inspire the next generation of child advocates through #CDFFreedomSchools? Apply by August 1 to join the movement: bit.ly/3GYLhnx

It’s time! #HallProctor2025 kicked off today at #CDFHaleyFarm in Clinton, TN! Follow along on our social platforms all week as we highlight inspiring moments from this gathering of youth advocates, faith leaders, and changemakers from across the country. Don’t miss it!

CDFFreedomSchools nationwide are getting ready to take action July 23 for the National Day of Social Action because public education is a public good. Last week, scholars at the @nia_cultural in Galveston, Texas led the way with speeches & presentations: bit.ly/45coa21

Public education is a public good. On July 23, #CDFFreedomSchools scholars across the country will take action—marching, speaking out, and organizing for an education that empowers every child. Learn how you can support: bit.ly/4lSzW7m

We’re so proud of our 2024-2025 cohort #BlackStudentLeadershipNetwork Ambassador Azana Bruce who was just named @TSUedu’s 2025–2026 student trustee! A passionate leader and policy advocate, Azana represents the student voice with dedication. Read more: bit.ly/44QlENz

The new state budget brings mixed feelings for youth advocates in Ohio: some progress, but challenges remain. #CDFOhio’s Brianna Booker voices the urgent need for more investment to support families and early childhood care. Read more: bit.ly/4eTHCUs

Save the Date | Join us for "A Celebration of Joy" in Minnesota as #CDFMinnesota looks back on 40 years of advocacy for children and youth in the state. Learn more here: bit.ly/4eXPmEX

"Public schools really pushed me to achieve academically." | It's TBT! Let's look back on this insightful discussion with Michael Tubbs, Janol Vinson, Darryl Briggs and others on the power of educating for success early on for our children. Watch here: bit.ly/44CkiY4

CDF is proud to join 100+ orgs supporting the Community Safety Agenda, launched this week by @RepPressley, @RepLucyMcBath, @RepSummerLee, @RepHorsford, and @RepMGS. Let's prioritize prevention, not punishment, so youth can grow up with dignity, hope & joy: bit.ly/4eROLVz

“Whose sanctuary is this, anyway?” | @RevDrStarsky joined @NYAPCdc to speak on youth advocacy and faith in these turbulent times. Watch: bit.ly/4lHyCo7 Read more via @presbynews: bit.ly/4eZEO8E

#CDFCA’s Lena Mallett testified before the LA County Board of Supervisors, calling for an end to dangerous youth detention practices that allow the probation department to police itself while wasting taxpayer funds. She urged them to invest in more programming for youth. Listen!

On July 23, youth nationwide will lead the National Day of Social Action. #CDFFreedomSchools scholars in Galveston, Texas will participate Wednesday too! @Nia_Cultural will speak out on why public education is a public good. Read more & join our movement: bit.ly/4lXhMBw

Minnesota ranks 5th in the U.S. for overall child well-being, according to the 2025 KIDS COUNT Data Book. But beneath that ranking is a painful truth: 28% of Black children live in poverty, nearly 5x the rate of White children. We must do better. Read: bit.ly/4eMynW4

Tomorrow, CDF's Sheri Brady joins @Voice4HumanNeed, @TaxWarRoom, and @CaringAcrossGen to discuss the recently passed budget reconciliation bill and the harsh impacts it will have on children and young people. Register now to join this important discussion: bit.ly/40Fn1h5

The recently-passed budget reconciliation bill could soon threaten food access for our children. @RevDrStarsky spoke to @The74 about what may come next and what must be done. Read more: bit.ly/3GP8CI6