We are living through unprecedented times and in an era of global movements that are changing our societies. From Black Lives Matter to the climate justice movement, there is energy and encouragement to work to make our world liveable and just. Meaningfully participating in change is complex and requires asking the right questions.

• What does it mean to understand systems change, to organize collectively, and to build civic leadership in our communities?
• What does it mean to advocate for change locally, while being a participant in the global movement for justice?
• How can Black, racialized, and Indigenous youth in Hamilton be empowered to make change where they Are at, through engaging with systems that exist and building community power?

The Hamilton Civic Leadership Program offers engaging and participatory sessions designed to deepen critical understanding of democracy, civic engagement, civic inclusion, and community organizing skills that can be used to develop leadership skills and promote civic inclusion and engagement among all youth. Special attention is given to Black, Indigenous, Trans, and Non-Binary youth in Hamilton and surrounding areas. The concept for this program was first created by City of Hamilton Councillor Nrinder Nann, before her time as councillor, and has since been adapted.

This is a two-year program, and is funded by the Canadian Heritage Department. The program is run by the Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion. The first cohort of the program ran from January 2020 until July 2020. The second cohort of the program is running from August 2020 until March 2021. There will also be a research component facilitated in partnership with the Department of Social Work at McMaster University. We will work with program participants to figure out their qualitative barriers to civic engagement in Hamilton. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate of completion and a reference letter. Participants in high school also receive volunteer hours.