Meaningful Partnerships Make Meaningful Impact
We’re nearing the end of our annual CDF Freedom School® program at Emmaus House, and it’s been fantastic. The children are happy and inspired, and we’re all excited to see them build upon the foundation of literacy they’re gaining during this six-week program.
Emmaus House partners with the Children’s Defense Fund to present the only CDF Freedom School® site in the state.
This summer learning program grew out of the Freedom School movement during the 60s, when college students from around the country traveled to Mississippi to help secure voting rights. They provided Black students with education in core subjects like reading, writing, math, and science, but also subjects like Black history and constitutional rights.
Even then, advocacy groups recognized that empowering marginalized people was about more than educating them. It was about inspiring them with information that was relevant to both their experiences and their struggles.
Today, CDF Freedom Schools® empower communities using a holistic approach. They prioritize culturally relevant instruction and intergenerational support, while helping to connect families with resources inside their community.
It’s not just about teaching young scholars to read; it’s about teaching them to love reading. For this to happen, instruction must occur alongside the proper support and resources.
A Holistic Approach to Systemic Problems
The Children’s Defense Fund combines direct service, community organizing, and advocacy to promote racial justice and child well-being across the country.
Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, President and CEO of the Children's Defense Fund, explains the genius of CDF's founder, Marian Wright Edelman: “She didn’t choose one lane. She understood that strong public policy work was grounded in direct service and community—that’s what our Freedom Schools are.”
Dr. Wilson recently joined us at Emmaus House as part of The Village Speaks: CDF Listens tour to read to our young scholars.
The Emmaus House Freedom School is about more than literacy; it’s about showing up for children. With the Children’s Defense Fund, Emmaus House is committed to doing just that.