Thank you for your interest in the Diaspora Organizer Program! To learn more, visit our website. The initial Diaspora Organizer Gathering is Oct 23-26, 2026 in Washington, DC.
What issues are covered in the Diaspora Organizers Program?
For the 2026-27 Diaspora Gathering, we are excited to announce that each member of the cohort will have the opportunity to partner with FCNL on their issue. We are looking forward to building on the existing advocacy and grassroots power to protect our communities from being targeted by our government’s unjust policies. The available issue areas have been selected in pursuit of the World We Seek .This is a world of peace, prosperity, and freedom for all—we will challenge the ongoing war in Iran, resist cuts to foreign aid, protect funding to SNAP and Medicaid, secure humane migration solutions for immigrant communities, and combat rising militarism abroad.
Organizers will build on the powerful grassroots work already happening around the country through lobbying their members of Congress to push for more lasting change in their own communities. More information on available issue areas can be found below.
Diaspora Organizers Gathering Issues:
To craft the legislative priorities for our lobbying and public education work, the policy committee sought input from meetings and churches, other Quaker groups, and FCNL staff and governors. The priorities are intended to be prophetic and values-based, simple and easy to communicate, and still specific enough to provide direction for subsequent actions. Below, read carefully to find more information on the available portfolio options for organizers this cohort.
Ideal participants:
- Express a demonstrated interest in working with FCNL to develop organizing efforts that advance peace and nonmilitary responses to violent conflict.
- Are highly interested in learning about the Congressional advocacy process and how to build nonpartisan long-term organizing relationships.
- Can commit to regular participation in the Diaspora Program outside of the fall Gathering including attendance at bimonthly calls, personalized check-ins with FCNL staff, collaboration with other advocacy groups, and regular organizing efforts.
Additional consideration may be given to participants with lived experience in area of interest.
Program will include opportunities to:
- Meet with organizers from across the United States, build community, and exchange ideas
- Explore the connections between federal foreign policy and local advocacy for peace and diplomacy
- Hear from a panel of grassroots organizers, lobbyists, and policy experts on how ordinary people can influence public policy
- Explore a policy ask within FCNL’s portfolio that impacts your community
- Participate in an interactive lobby training to prepare for meetings with elected officials
FAQs
An issue I’d like to lobby on isn’t listed; can I still apply?
- We are prioritizing the listed issues at the moment but, if you have questions on what may apply, please contact us.
Do I have to pay for anything?
- Travel, food, and housing are covered by FCNL. Lodging will be at Friends Place on Capitol Hill
