Launched in 2009, the Brown Boi Project leadership retreats work to build leadership, economic self-sufficiency, and health of young masculine of center womyn, trans men, and straight/queer men of color.
*Masculine of center (MOC) is a term that recognizes the breadth and depth of identity for lesbian/queer/ womyn who tilt toward the masculine side of the gender scale and includes a wide range of identities such as butch, stud, aggressive/AG, dom, macha, etc.
(B. Cole 2008)
What we are looking for
Our Brown Bois come from all walks of life. Some are clothing designers, aspiring police officers, social justice leaders, culinary wizards, and social entrepreneurs. What sets them apart is a vision to make the world a better place than they found it. They each demonstrate leadership potential, whether that is on the streets, online, or within an organization.
Brown bois all have a strong commitment to becoming their best self. They are willing to stretch themselves, learn new things, and be a teacher to others. They might not know how to get where they want to go but they come into this experience with openness to getting closer on their own path. They are looking for a community of brown bois to support them on their own journey and are excited to be a resource to that community in return. Knowing what you can bring to the Brown Boi Project community is an important question.
The Brown Boi Project Leadership Retreats are designed for young leaders (35 and under) that have fewer than 7 years of experience in their field and are looking to reinforce their potential with a strong foundation of skills and self-awareness.
But what is it?
During the 5-day retreat you will have the opportunity to work across issues and communities, talk about race, class, culture, gender and sexuality, and explore what a commitment to social justice looks like for you and how you want to help your community. These retreats bring participants from across the country to experience an intensive introduction to community organizing while doing important personal leadership development. You will receive training in understanding power, communications, cross culture coalition building, personal finance, community organizing, self-care, fundraising, relationship building, gender justice, and personal life planning.
If you are accepted into the program the BBP will cover your travel, food, and lodging expenses so that you can join us. We look forward to hearing from you!
