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Reposted by Children's Defense Fund

MomsRising @momsrising.org · 18/09/2026

We headed over to Capitol Hill with @demwomencaucus.bsky.social, @nwlc.org, @zerotothree.bsky.social, @clasp.org, @cdf1973.bsky.social, NAEYC, and Together for Head Start to fight back against RFK Jr's proposed changes that would put Head Start at risk and to say "have a heart, #ProtectHeadStart!"

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 15/09/2026

"Head Start is critical to our existence, for our children, and to our identity as a nation."📢 Join us in protecting Head Start by sharing your story on why this landmark program is essential for children, families, and communities. Add your public comment at: bit.ly/4xZxu5u

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 06/09/2026

Sundays from the Farm. At #HallProctor2026, Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Callahan reminded us that attaching Jesus’ name to something does not make just or true. Her message reminds us that the work of child advocacy requires us to look for the substance of justice, not just the language of it.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

Pierre should be here. He should be starting college. Playing soccer. Studying neuroscience. Building the future he came to this country to pursue. Youth should not have to carry fear, stigma, & isolation alone. They deserve communities and systems that protect their safety, futures, & dignity.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

CDF is excited to welcome Nick Vucic as our new National Director of Public Affairs. Nick will lead CDF’s enterprise-wide work across policy, advocacy, strategic communications, and narrative building to help advance our mission for children and young people. Read more: bit.ly/3SWQaDD

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

On November 4–5, CDF's 2026 American Youth Policy Forum will bring together young leaders, policymakers, researchers, educators, and advocates from across the country to tackle today's most pressing issues affecting children, youth, and families. Save the date: bit.ly/3UibHHi

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

We join the world in remembering Dolly Parton: an icon, artist, storyteller, philanthropist, & champion for children’s literacy. CDF-SRO was proud to partner with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library for many years through our SPARK initiative. We are grateful for her life and legacy.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Children who arrive in the United States alone should be protected, cared for, and safely reunited with family or trusted adults as quickly as possible. As such, CDF strongly opposes a new proposal that would make that harder. Read CDF’s full response: bit.ly/4qWaIc9

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

“You can do anything you put your mind to.” From St. Paul Community Baptist Church Freedom School, a powerful reminder from our scholars: freedom begins with what we believe is possible. youtu.be/m_18bO6JhGg?si=ahCxu-Oo_KV…

youtu.be

FSITM- St Paul Community Baptist Church Freedom School

YouTube video by 2 Gifted Academy

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

Since December, CDF-TX has partnered with Black Faith Coalition, with CDF's BLSN alum helping to lead workshops that equip young people with the tools to organize, advocate, and become leaders in their communities and on their campuses. Learn more: bit.ly/4gCnmJu.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

#HallProctor2026 gave us space to remember why we began, who we are accountable to, and what it means to keep showing up for children. Whether you joined us this year or are feeling called to the Farm for the first time, save the date for #HallProctor2027: bit.ly/4wTUKRP

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

We are thrilled to announce A National Celebration of Joy 2026, our annual gathering to celebrate the people, partnerships, and possibilities that move the work for children forward. Save the date, spread the word, and make plans to join us: bit.ly/4wcQwU5

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

For more than 60 years, Head Start has supported children through early learning, health care, nutrition, mental health support, disability services, and family engagement. Now, a proposed federal overhaul could threaten the program. Read our full statement here: bit.ly/4hjX7IG

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

This Saturday, we will gather for the Children’s Public Forum, a conversation centered on the well-being of Black children and the future they deserve. Join us to discuss the challenges facing children and families in America today and the work required to meet this moment: bit.ly/3SdhPQl

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Sweeping changes to SNAP are making it harder for millions of people to get help putting food on the table. In a new NPR article, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, President & CEO of CDF, spoke about how these changes are affecting children and families across the country: n.pr/3RsmuxB

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 02/08/2026

Today, we celebrate Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, President & CEO of CDF, on his 50th birthday. In honor of his 50th, Dr. Wilson launched a #50For50 campaign with a goal to raise $50,000 to build power for children and families. Make a gift to CDF today: bit.ly/4fBkEna

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 02/08/2026

Today is the final day to apply to become an Ella Baker Trainer. Ella Baker Trainers are pillars of the CDF Freedom Schools® movement. They train and guide the leaders who create spaces where scholars are affirmed, challenged, celebrated, and loved. Apply by the end of today: bit.ly/3Tk9aMi

childrensdefense.org

Serve with Us - Children's Defense Fund

Become an Ella Baker Trainer Each year, exceptional leaders who have worked at least two years in the CDF Freedom Schools Program are selected as…

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Each year, CDF selects exceptional leaders who have served in the CDF Freedom Schools program to train the next generation of site staff & keep the heart of the program strong. Applications for the next Ella Baker Trainer cohort close Aug 1. This is your moment, apply today: bit.ly/3Tk9aMi

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 25/07/2026

Get ready to laugh, because joy is taking the stage on the Vineyard. Joy is part of the work, and this summer, we’re making room for plenty of it. Join Children’s Defense Fund for the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest Opening Night Benefit: bit.ly/4x0iVxu

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Joy looks good on 50. This August, we’re celebrating Dr. Starsky Wilson’s 50th birthday on Martha’s Vineyard. Dr. Wilson is raising $50,000 for his 50th, and we’re already more than halfway there. Raise a glass. Make a gift. Join us on the Vineyard: bit.ly/4vGtZPa

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Days 3-4 at #HallProctor2026 brought us deeper into the work. From the pulpit to the classroom to the conversations between sessions, #CDFHaleyFarm continued to hold what this moment demands: honesty, care, and a community committed to children. Here are some moments from our last days at the Farm.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Today, on #NationalDayOfSocialAction, we’re asking: Are the children well? Ms. Latisha Gyden of The Y in Central Maryland reminds us that children are navigating real challenges, and they need adults who are willing to step in with love, guidance, and care. #AreTheChildrenWell #CDFFreedomSchools

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Day 2 of #HallProctor2026 is in the books! Yesterday, #CDFHaleyFarm was full of the kind of energy this gathering was built for: spirit-stirring preaching, honest conversation, and folks recommitting to centering children in our work and lives. Here are a few moments from yesterday at the Farm.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Today is #NationalDayofSocialAction, and we’re asking: Are the children well? For Anthony Orozco of Roberts Family Development Center, the answer is: not yet. Children need counselors and caring adults who are truly doing the work for them. #AreTheChildrenWell #NDSA #CDFFreedomSchools

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

#HallProctor2026 has begun! Here are some first looks from #CDFHaleyFarm, where faith leaders, child advocates, organizers, scholars, and community members are gathered for a week of preaching, teaching, renewal, and advocacy for children.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

A powerful word from Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley of Alfred Street Baptist Church at #HallProctor2026. The cousins of injustice are still with us. But so are the people, communities, and movements called to confront them together. Watch the full sermon here: bit.ly/4fedZOt

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Are the children well? For Keely Norris, Managing Director of Alex Haley Farm, the answer requires honesty about our country. Learn how you can take action with us for our 2026 National Day of Social Action: bit.ly/3QKMPXn #AreTheChildrenWell #NationalDayofSocialAction #CDFFreedomSchools

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

We know what freedom sounds like. Children singing. Parents discussing dreams for their community. Elected leaders responding. We just don’t get to hear this enough. That’s why, alongside our deep programmatic work in CDF Freedom Schools, we've been organizing a #FreedomSummer. Will you join us?

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

Children’s mental health cannot wait. Next week, CDF Freedom Schools® scholars and communities will come together for National Day of Social Action. Here's how you can participate: bit.ly/3QKMPXn #AreTheChildrenWell #NationalDayOfSocialAction #CDFFreedomSchools

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Sunday sounds from the Farm. “Love Lifted Me” is the spirit of Hall-Proctor: faith that restores us, community that steadies us, and love that sends us back to the work of justice for children. Let love lift you to Alex Haley Farm. Register for #HallProctor2026: bit.ly/3ZJB97M

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 05/07/2026

250 years later, freedom is still unfinished for too many children. Children should be safe, heard, housed, healthy, and free. America’s promise must include every child.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

Welcome home. Hall-Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry is so more than a conference. Watch our 2024 recap and see what makes Hall-Proctor unlike any other gathering. Then register for #HallProctor2026 here: bit.ly/3ZJB97M

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 01/07/2026

There's still time to meet us at the farm! Hall-Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry is more than a conference. It is part family reunion, part tent revival, part theological study session, and part policy think tank. Come to the farm. Register for #HallProctor2026: bit.ly/3ZJB97M

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Sounds from the historic Alex Haley Farm. The 2025 Hall-Proctor choir reminds us: building up the kingdom means building a world where children are protected, cherished, and free. Want to hear the magic live? Register for #HallProctor2026 at bit.ly/3ZJB97M

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 30/06/2026

Registration is open for #HallProctor2026. Meet us at Alex Haley Farm this July for four days of renewal, beloved community, and preparation for the work ahead. Register here: www.childrensdefense.org/events/hal…

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 26/06/2026

Stories matter. Recently, CDF Freedom Schools® welcomed Black children’s book creators to Alex Haley Farm, continuing a tradition of gathering storytellers whose work helps young people see themselves, their history, and their power on the page.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 23/06/2026

The children are well when they are safe, supported, heard, nourished, and protected. This year, CDF Freedom Schools® National Day of Social Action will focus on children’s mental health and social-emotional wellness. Join us on July 15: bit.ly/3R2bmah

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

Tonight, CDF-NY will host its 2026 Celebration of Joy! We cannot wait to see you all at the Manny Cantor Center for an evening rooted in hope, resilience, and collective action. It's too late to grab a ticket, but you can still donate here: bit.ly/4usdjdM

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 16/06/2026

Last week in Tennessee, more than 1,300 CDF Freedom Schools® leaders gathered to prepare to serve nearly 12,000 scholars at more than 180 sites nationwide. Learn more about our upcoming summer of literacy, joy, and civic action: bit.ly/4otzYVA

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

Join CDF-New York on June 17 for Celebration of Joy: “Begin Again: Rooted in Joy, Rising in Power" as we honor young people, uplift community, and celebrate leaders advancing justice for children and families. Purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate here: bit.ly/4usdjdM

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 06/06/2026

Today, on Marian Wright Edelman's birthday, we celebrate CDF’s founder and president emerita. Her lifelong work for children, families, and justice continues to shape the movement for every child. Learn more about our founding: www.childrensdefense.org/about-us/o…

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

A sermon can remind us who we are and what we are called to do. For more than 30 years, Hall-Proctor has gathered prophetic voices to tell the truth, inspire courage, and call us toward justice for children. Join us at Alex Haley Farm this July: bit.ly/4omAncJ

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 28/05/2026

Tonight in Huntsville, CDF Southern Regional Office will gather for A Celebration of Joy to honor leaders and youth advocates rooted in joy, rising in hope, and investing in every child. Learn more about the awardees and the event here: bit.ly/4dzXVa9

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

Knox County Schools made the right decision by returning Alex Haley’s Roots to school library shelves. But it should never have been removed. Books that reflect America’s true history and diversity belong in the hands of young people. Read more: bit.ly/49IOjYr

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 22/05/2026

CDF mourns the passing of George Gresham, former 1199SEIU president and CDF Board Member Emeritus. His life’s work reflected a deep commitment to workers, families, children, and justice. Our condolences are with his loved ones and the 1199SEIU community.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 20/05/2026

Registration is open for #HallProctor2026! Meet us at Alex Haley Farm this July for four days of renewal, community, and preparation for the work ahead. Register today: www.childrensdefense.org/events/hal…

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 20/05/2026

Today we honor a legacy of courage, truth-telling, and moral clarity. Malcolm X challenged America to confront racism without comfort or denial. His life reminds us that justice requires more than remembrance. It requires the will to speak about what our children and communities deserve.

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 18/05/2026

Amazing news from NY! After being detained by ICE during a required check-in, 16-year-old Joel was granted deferred action for four years and can remain with his family. Learn more: www.nyclu.org/press-release/victory…

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Children's Defense Fund @cdf1973.bsky.social · 16/05/2026

Today, CDF joins communities in AL and NC for a National #DayofAction for #VotingRights. The fight for voting rights is not behind us. It's unfolding now. Communities are still demanding power, protection, and a voice in the decisions that shape our children’s lives. Join us: bit.ly/4dxnRSA

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