In November, Sanctuary of Hope (SOH) scholars completed their fifth successful “Thinking Lives Matter” Community Lecture Series, an eight-week course focused on civics, politics, and self-empowerment. This impactful program, offered in partnership with the Mervyn M. Dymally Institute at California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), provides young people ages 18-25 with advanced knowledge of higher education options, lessons in civic engagement, and tools to amplify their voices in political discourse.
Held on the CSUDH campus, the lecture series engages students in critical thinking and cognitive reasoning while empowering them to become active participants in their communities. Upon completing the course, SOH scholars are awarded a $2,500 fellowship to support their continued educational and professional growth.
A highlight of the program was Dr. Anthony Samad who inspired the scholars and encouraged them to continue advocating for the causes they believe in. His message of empowerment and perseverance resonated deeply with the cohort.
The 10 participants in this year’s cohort shared positive feedback about the program, citing their newfound understanding of systemic racism, improved skills for engaging in civil discourse, and increased commitment to civic involvement. These scholars are gaining the knowledge and confidence needed to become effective changemakers in their communities.
Past “Thinking Lives Matter” graduates have gone on to elevate their activism in various ways, including serving on the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s (LAHSA) HYFLA Board, enlisting in the Air Force, conducting delegation visits to the California state capital and the White House, leading racial equity initiatives, securing jobs as community organizers, and enrolling in and graduating from higher education programs.
The next “Thinking Lives Matter” cohort will begin in Winter 2025. For more information or to express interest in enrolling, please contact Rhea Lambey at [email protected].
Through initiatives like this, SOH continues to inspire the next generation of leaders and activists, equipping them with the tools they need to make a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.