Are you organizing in a small town or rural community under threat? Do you want support, training, and a network to keep fighting back?
Why this matters
For decades, small-town America has endured shuttered schools and factories, disappearing family farms, and the loss of both young people and local infrastructure. Too many of our neighbors have fallen into despair — or been pulled toward authoritarian explanations that scapegoat immigrants, LGBTQ+ people, and communities of color.
But from the Mine Wars to Selma to Standing Rock, history teaches us that real change comes when the people most under attack build power together.
That’s why we’re seeking Rural Defenders: people rooted in their communities with the courage to stand up to authoritarian forces — whether that looks like political violence, hate group demonstrations, book bans, criminalization of vulnerable people, or attacks on local democracy itself.
Who should apply?
We welcome applications from anyone who is interested. We especially want to hear from people directly under threat, including:
- Racial minority leaders and organizers
- Immigrants and religious minorities
- LGBTQ+ community members
- People who use drugs or have criminal records
- Indigenous and tribal communities
- Union members and worker center activists
(Established organizations and paid staff organizers are welcome, but we especially encourage folks doing this work without a salary.)
How to apply
Spots are limited, but we encourage you to apply even if you’re unsure if this program is right for you. The application helps us:
- Learn more about the crises facing rural and small-town communities.
- Build a broader network of people ready to fight back.
Together, we’ll not only train and support one another, but also lay the groundwork for ongoing solidarity in the months and years to come.
