Children's Defense Fund

Meet us at Alex Haley Farm for Hall-Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry

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Happy little boy at a lake

We envision a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.

About Us

The State of America’s Children®

As the president of the United States prepares for this year’s State of the Union address, Children’s Defense Fund President and CEO Reverend Dr. Starsky Wilson has a message about the state of America’s children.

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Use Your Voice!

The BSLN Fellowship and Ambassador Program offers an enriching opportunity for college students to actively organize in the community and influence public policy. Apply today or share with an eligible college student!

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Riggio-Lynch Chapel at Alex Haley Farm

CDF Haley Farm

Named for author and activist Alex Haley, CDF Haley Farm in Clinton, TN, is a sacred and safe space for facilitating movement-building moments and training opportunities for prioritizing joy, pursuing justice, and promoting rest as resistance. Explore the rich history of Haley Farm and consider hosting your next event there!

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Recent News

  • Women’s History Month: Celebrating CDF Legacy

    During March, we pause to recognize the visionary women whose leadership and courage have shaped a movement for children’s rights, equity, and social justice in honor of Women’s History Month.…

  • Immigration

    Marching to Free Children & Families: A Peace Walk in Solidarity with Families Detained in ICE Custody

    At Children’s Defense Fund-Texas, we work alongside advocates, faith leaders, and community members to protect children and families from harmful policies and systems. Our team also helps lead the National Coalition to End Family and Child Detention, a nationwide network working to end detention of children and families in immigration custody.…

  • Student Leaders Turning Advocacy into Action

    Black Student Leadership Network students are turning advocacy into action on their campuses. From organizing around education justice to expanding voter awareness, two student leaders share how their campaigns are equipping peers with knowledge, strengthening civic participation, and building momentum for change.…

  • Immigration

    Amicus Brief Template

    For use in habeas proceedings documenting harms of immigration detention on youth…

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Young boy laughs with his friends at a CDF Freedom Schools event.

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Find a CDF Freedom Schools® Site

At CDF Freedom Schools, we’re not just educating. We’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. We’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound. Find a CDF Freedom Schools site near you.

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Young boy laughs with his friends at a CDF Freedom Schools event.

Dr. Starsky Wilson speaks into a microphone.

Subscribe to “For Our Children”

Sign up to receive the weekly column by Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson.

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For Our Children

CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, shares insights, challenges, and hopes for the future in “For Our Children.”CDF’s President and CEO, Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson, offers a personal perspective on challenges, victories, and the path ahead in “For Our Children.” Delve into a unique narrative that guides our mission, celebrates milestones, and navigates the journey toward a brighter tomorrow. Explore now for an inside connection to our vision—where the story of our commitment to children and youth unfolds.

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