Star Trek fans know that for series creator Gene Roddenberry, a vivid imagination, progressive values, and innovative thinking were key to driving social change and creating a world of diversity, inclusion, and respect. So it should come as no surprise that The Roddenberry Foundation advances his philosophy to “think, question, and challenge the status quo” to create “a brighter future.”

Spurred by the tumultuous impact of the November 2016 election, the foundation has invested in and supported those at the forefront of activism through The Roddenberry Fellowship, a year-long program that supports activists, community leaders, and organizers leading efforts for a more inclusive and equitable country.

“The 2016 election was a moment of reckoning for those of us engaged in social justice and the welfare of vulnerable communities,” said Lior Ipp, CEO of The Roddenberry Foundation. “In an era in which people across the country are literally sacrificing their bodies and fighting for what they believe in, we felt strongly that the philanthropic community had an obligation to jump in.”

So what insights and lessons learned have come from the front lines in the wake of the 2016 election? Join Roddenberry Foundation staff and members of the current Fellowship cohort this November at their Upswell Chicago workshop, “A Year of Resistance: What We Learned, and What’s Next,” where a panel will discuss:

• key factors relevant to fundraising, building, leading, and scaling early-stage organizations through the lens of activism post-2016;
• trends across issue areas and sectors that have surfaced post-election, what’s working (and not) to engage communities given issue fatigue, how to use social media to promote your work, and changes in activism and organizing since 2016; and
• where the activism space is headed given political, social, and technological trends.

“We hope the workshop will offer activists, or anyone interested in helping shape the future of the country as we enter a crucial election year, new information and tangible resources,” said Ipp. “It’s an opportunity for Upswell attendees to learn from and meet like-minded changemakers who have a shared interest in Gene Roddenberry’s vision for a more inclusive, optimistic society.”

And heads up to activists, leaders, and disrupters who’d like to join the 2020 Roddenberry Fellowship cohort – apply now. The application deadline is June 13, 2019, 5pm PT.