Are you a young Black professional passionate about social justice? The CPAR John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship Program 2026 offers a chance to work in Congress and gain hands-on experience. This 12-month program pays up to $70,000 and focuses on issues like racial equity in Black communities.
Program Overview
The John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship comes from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF). It places fellows in two six-month rotations. First, you work in offices of Congressional Black Caucus members. There, you help develop public policy, attend briefings, do research, and write speeches. You also build connections with leaders in social justice.
In the second rotation, you join the CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR). Under the Senior Director, you conduct policy analysis, research, and data collection. The goal is to share findings that support CBCF’s mission. Fellows might organize forums, act as experts, or create issue briefs and fact sheets.
Topics cover criminal justice reform, education, community and economic development, health equity, and civil rights. The program honors Congressman John R. Lewis and his legacy of fighting for equality.
Key Benefits
Fellows get a full salary of $70,000 for the year. This amount does not change. You also receive benefits during the program, which runs from September 2026 to September 2027. This support lets you focus on the work without money worries.
Who Can Apply
To qualify, meet these requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have a work permit for the full program term.
- Hold a graduate or professional degree by the start date.
- Show commitment to social justice through policy work, jobs, or activism that helps Black communities.
- Have at least three years leading community activism or grassroots organizing.
- Know the federal legislative process, U.S. Congress, Congressional Black Caucus, and related policies.
- Have strong analytical skills and excellent speaking and writing abilities.
Application Steps
Submit everything online by 11:59 PM EST on May 1, 2026. You need:
- A resume (up to 2 pages) with activities, honors, jobs, service, and skills.
- A cover letter (up to 2 pages) on your interest, background fit, career goals, and ties to John Lewis’s legacy.
- Two electronic letters of recommendation (no hard copies).
- Answers to one essay question.
The program provides real skills for a career in policy and advocacy. Check the official site for full details and to start your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CPAR John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship Program?
It’s a 12-month paid program from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation that places young Black professionals in Congress offices and CPAR for policy work on issues like racial equity and criminal justice reform.
What are the key benefits of the fellowship?
Fellows receive a $70,000 salary, benefits, and hands-on experience in policy development, research, and networking from September 2026 to September 2027.
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
You need a graduate degree, U.S. citizenship or work permit, three years of community activism experience, knowledge of federal policy, and strong analytical and communication skills.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Submit your resume, cover letter, two recommendation letters, and essay answers online by 11:59 PM EST on May 1, 2026, through the official CBCF website.
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