Short Summary
Almost a half century ago the Young Lords Organization emerged in Chicago to prevent the displacement of the Latinx community from Lincoln Park and fight for the self-determination of Puerto Rico. Rooted in their family histories of migration, the YLO exemplified the Third World revolutionary activism that developed in many communities of color across the United States during the late sixties. Inspired by national liberation struggles and firmly aligned with the politics of the Black Panther Party, the YLO set up community service programs, resisted police violence, anchored the Original Rainbow Coalition, and disrupted urban removal plans for Lincoln Park. Due to their ideology, organizing courage, and cultural resistance, the Young Lords Organization of Chicago soon influenced the creation of Young Lords chapters in other cities.
By contributing to this fundraising campaign you will support the efforts of the Young Lords to commemorate their 50th anniversary. If you have been inspired by the history of the Young Lords please donate today!
What We Need & What You Get
The Young Lords aim to raise $2,500 to plan events, provide travel support for community leaders and Young Lords outside of Chicago, food, compensation for artists, and development of materials.
All levels of donations are welcome. In exchange for a generous $50 dollar donation the Young Lords have collaborated with Chicago-based cultural organizer/activist Bria Royal on a special edition 50th anniversary flyer. The Young Lords will mail commemorative flyers to +50$ donors in October 2018.
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All funds will go directly to the Young Lords and will be spent on 50th Anniversary initiatives.
The Impact
Your donation will have a direct impact on maintaining the historical memory of the Young Lords. Indeed, the 50th anniversary of the Young Lords Organization offers an important opportunity to revisit the revolutionary history of the YLO and to remember the Young Lords who were lost in struggle. Mindful that Puerto Rico remains a U.S. colony and that displacement and police violence continue to harm Latinx communities in Chicago and beyond, the 50th anniversary of the YLO is also a chance to reflect upon the political lessons the history of the YLO offers to organizers facing intense challenges today. Indeed, as the history of the Young Lords challenges narrow Black/White frameworks of U.S. racial domination, contributes to traditions of Third World socialism, and is filled with powerful examples of women and Afro-Latinx leadership, it provides political clarity to many emerging communities of resistance.
Other Ways You Can Help
Looking for other ways to support the Young Lords 50th?
- Follow on Twitter (@YLO50)
- Tell your friends and familia to donate - share the Indiegogo link on Facebook
- Read and reflect on the history and impact of the YLO
- Visit nationalyounglords.com
