As an expert in the field of social justice and advocacy, I have seen firsthand the crucial role that advocacy groups play in creating change and promoting equity in our communities. In Northeast Tennessee, there are several organizations that are making a significant impact in areas such as racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive rights, and economic justice.
Appalachian Community Fund
The Appalachian Community Fund (ACF) is a non-profit organization that focuses on supporting grassroots organizations and movements in the Appalachian region, including Northeast Tennessee. Their mission is to promote social, economic, and environmental justice by providing resources and funding to community-based organizations. One of the main ways ACF supports advocacy work is through their grantmaking program. They provide grants to organizations that are working towards social change in areas such as racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental justice, and economic justice.In addition to funding, ACF also offers training and technical assistance to help organizations build their capacity and strengthen their impact. ACF also hosts events and workshops to raise awareness about important issues and bring together community members and activists. For example, they recently organized a workshop on anti-racism and white privilege in partnership with the YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
Highlander Research and Education Center
The Highlander Research and Education Center is a social justice leadership training school located in New Market, Tennessee. Founded in 1932, Highlander has a long history of supporting grassroots movements for racial and economic justice. Highlander offers workshops, trainings, and educational programs for activists and community organizers. They also provide resources and support for community-based organizations working towards social change.Some of their recent initiatives include a workshop on environmental justice and a training program for youth activists. In addition to their work in Northeast Tennessee, Highlander also has a national and international reach. They have worked with organizations and movements in countries such as South Africa, Palestine, and Haiti.
East Tennessee State University Office of Equity and Inclusion
Located in Johnson City, the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Office of Equity and Inclusion is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and in the surrounding community. The office works closely with students, faculty, and staff to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The Office of Equity and Inclusion offers various programs and initiatives to support marginalized groups on campus. This includes the Multicultural Center, which provides resources and support for students of color, LGBTQ+ students, and international students.They also organize events such as cultural celebrations, workshops on diversity and inclusion, and guest speaker series. In addition to their work on campus, the Office of Equity and Inclusion also partners with local organizations to promote social justice in the community. For example, they have collaborated with the YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia to host a workshop on gender-based violence.
Tri-Cities Friends of Birthrights
Tri-Cities Friends of Birthrights is a volunteer-run organization that advocates for reproductive justice in Northeast Tennessee. Their mission is to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare services. The organization provides resources and support for individuals seeking reproductive healthcare services, including abortion care. They also work to educate the community about reproductive rights and advocate for policies that protect these rights. Tri-Cities Friends of Birthrights also partners with other advocacy groups in the region to organize events and campaigns.For example, they recently collaborated with the Tennessee Advocates for Planned Parenthood to host a rally in support of reproductive rights.
One Tennessee
One Tennessee is a statewide advocacy organization that works towards social and economic justice for all Tennesseans. They have a chapter in Northeast Tennessee that focuses on local issues and initiatives. One of their main areas of focus is healthcare access and affordability. They advocate for policies that expand access to healthcare for low-income individuals and families, as well as policies that protect reproductive rights. They also work on issues such as education, criminal justice reform, and economic justice. In addition to their advocacy work, One Tennessee also provides resources and support for individuals and families in need.This includes assistance with healthcare enrollment, legal services, and emergency financial assistance.
