Are you a young Black professional passionate about social justice? The CPAR John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship Program 2026 offers a chance to work in Congress and shape policies that help Black communities. This 12-month program pays up to $70,000 and builds real skills in policy and advocacy.
Program Overview
The John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship comes from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF). It pairs fellows with Congressional Black Caucus members and the CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR). Over two six-month rotations, you gain hands-on experience in Congress and research.
In Congress, fellows help develop public policy, attend briefings, do research, write speeches, and connect with leaders on social justice. At CPAR, you work with the senior director and staff to analyze policies, collect data, and share findings. This helps advance CBCF’s goals for racial equity.
Fellows might also run social justice events, act as experts, and create briefs or fact sheets. Topics cover criminal justice reform, education, economic development, health equity, and civil rights.
Key Benefits
This fellowship provides a full salary of $70,000, plus benefits, for the whole year. The pay stays fixed at that amount. From September 2026 to September 2027, you get paid work experience in top policy settings.
Who Can Apply
To qualify, meet these rules:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have work permission for the full program term.
- Hold a graduate or professional degree by the start date.
- Show commitment to social justice through policy work, jobs, or activism for Black communities.
- Have at least three years leading community activism or grassroots efforts.
- Know the federal legislative process, U.S. Congress, Congressional Black Caucus, and related policies.
- Have strong analytical skills and great speaking and writing abilities.
How to Apply
Submit everything online by 11:59 PM EST on May 1, 2026. You need:
- A resume (up to 2 pages) with activities, honors, jobs, service, and skills.
- A cover letter (up to 2 pages) on your interest, background fit, career goals, and link to John Lewis’s legacy.
- Two electronic letters of recommendation (no hard copies).
- Answers to one essay question.
Apply at the official site: https://cbcfinc.academicworks.com/opportunities/2761. For details, check the same link. Start preparing now to meet the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CPAR John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship Program?
It’s a 12-month paid program by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation that places fellows in Congress and CPAR to work on social justice policies for Black communities.
What are the eligibility requirements?
You need U.S. citizenship or work permission, a graduate degree, commitment to social justice, three years of activism experience, knowledge of Congress, and strong analytical and communication skills.
How much does the fellowship pay?
Fellows receive a full salary of $70,000 plus benefits for the year from September 2026 to September 2027.
When is the application deadline and how do I apply?
Submit your resume, cover letter, recommendations, and essay online by 11:59 PM EST on May 1, 2026, at https://cbcfinc.academicworks.com/opportunities/2761.