Environmental Justice Organizing Academy
Purpose & Goals
Orange County Environmental Justice or OCEJ, is excited to launch our seventh iteration of our environmental justice organizing academy (EJOA) this summer! Launched in 2020, our academy has worked with youth that are passionate about environmental and social justice and how to get them involved in community organizing. This year, OCEJ will take on a cohort of 10-15 individuals ages 18-26 who are based in Orange County to join our academy.
EJOA is an intensive eight week program to prepare younger generations with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to organize in their communities, specifically with a focus on environmental justice. Each week, there will be different topics covered from staff, advisory board members, and different OCEJ partners as guest speakers and facilitators. No prior experience or background in environmental/social justice or organizing is needed as this program is meant to accessible and beginner level as possible.
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By the end of the program, students should be able to:
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Develop a political analysis of the current systems and world they live in
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Obtain an understanding of what organizing is and why we organize
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Have more awareness of environmental justice issues in Orange County
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Identify and refine their organizing skills
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Learn foundational knowledge of organizing and environmental/social justice
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Increase their confidence to participate in social justice movements
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Meet like-minded peers to grow with
Applications are due Sunday, May 3!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone apply?
Applicants must be ages 18 to 26, be able to attend all sessions, and either live, work, or go to school in Orange County. No prior background or knowledge is required as this is a beginner and entry level type program. EJOA is open to participants of all backgrounds, but we especially encourage individuals from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), low-income/working class, disabled, queer, and/or trans backgrounds based in inland Orange County to apply.
When are the sessions?
The program dates are Tuesdays and Thursdays and will start on June 9 and end on August 6. Zoom sessions will be from 11am-1pm and in-person sessions will be 3-4 hour time blocks in the morning to afternoon. Admitted applicants will receive the full detailed schedule. Please refer to the schedule & curriculum below for more information.
What are sessions like?
Our academy follows popular education models that rely on participants lived experiences to guide discussions and lectures. Each session will have different guest speakers either from staff, advisory board, or other partners who each have a different format of teaching. This includes a mix of lecture, discussion, breakout rooms, activities and more. Participants will also have to work on a final group project to present during the youth showcase.
Do I have to pay to join?
No, this program is completely free! In fact, participants will receive a $500 stipend to account for any expenses incurred during the program, upon completion.
2026 EJOA Curriculum & Schedule
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