What does Social Justice Sewing Academy do?

Founded in 2017, the Social Justice Sewing Academy (SJSA) is an art program that bridges artistic expression with activism and empowers youth to amplify their voice through art that advocates for social justice. By using textile art as a vehicle for personal transformation and community cohesion, SJSA empowers youth to become agents of social change. We promote a model that actively promotes dialogue with our surrounding community through the lens of contemporary art. We support youth to become civically engaged artists as they are challenged to tackle current social issues in their community that directly affect their lives. A unique part of our program intentionally bridges generational, racial, and socioeconomic divides by sending youth art blocks to hundreds of embroiderers across the world where the issues facing our young people are literally brought into the households of traditionally affluent people with the hope of sparking dialogue and action.