The We The People NJ Coalition, a coalition that advocates to strengthen democracy in our state, is launching a new grant program aimed at increasing nonpartisan civic engagement and building capacity for groups that empower underrepresented communities. 

 

We the People, a statewide coalition of more than a dozen labor, advocacy and grassroots groups, is seeking proposals to empower communities to lead local democracy initiatives, cultivate new leaders in communities of color, youth, and the LGBTQ community. The Coalition also seeks to boost voter participation and turnout by preparing communities to vote.

 

“As we enter one of the most important election seasons in our nation’s history, it’s critically important that underrepresented and underserved communities have a voice in our democratic process,” said Moriah Kinberg, Director of Democracy Organizing for the New Jersey Working Families Alliance. “These grants are aimed at building the grassroots power of communities of color, youth and the LGBTQ community to advocate for positive change.”

 

“New Jersey’s democracy will only be vibrant if everyone, no matter their race or their ZIP code, can fully participate in the political process,” said Jared Hunter, Organizing Director for Salvation and Social Justice. “These grants will help ensure that groups that have for too long been excluded from the halls of power have a seat at the table in guiding the future of their communities.”

 

The grant program builds off a series of major wins for democracy in New Jersey, particularly rulings from a federal judge that ensured fundamental reforms of the state’s electoral system by banning the county line.

 

"New Jersey's growing grassroots movement is poised to reclaim their political power, increase civic engagement, and build the multiracial democracy we all deserve," said Jesse Burns, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of New Jersey. “This funding and support will help bolster the work that is already occurring in communities across our state at this vital time in the future of our state and nation.”

 

Groups can get more information and apply at www.wethepeoplenj.org/civicpower. Proposals are due Friday, August 16th.

 

####

We The People NJ is a statewide coalition of over a dozen labor, advocacy, and grassroots groups dedicated to advancing an equitable and more inclusive democracy by engaging and empowering underrepresented communities and building sustainable power among all New Jerseyans. wethepeoplenj.org