Detroit Parent Network (DPN), Michigan’s premier parent engagement organization, continues its mission to educate, equip, and empower parents to champion their children and advocate for change in schools and communities.
Recently, DPN celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort from its flagship program, Parents on Policy. This 15-week training program teaches parents how to channel their passion and energy into effective advocacy skills. Graduates of the program participate in advocacy trips to Lansing and Washington, D.C., where they apply their newfound skills in real-world policy environments.
DPN’s Parent2Parent approach trains and hires parents as literacy, health, and advocacy associates. Barbara Young, a member of the second cohort in spring 2023, exemplifies this approach. Initially driven by a desire to protect her three children on the autism spectrum, Barbara learned how to form sound arguments, present facts and documentation, and engage with key stakeholders and legislators. She now works as a part-time Advocacy Associate, helping other parents navigate the program. Barbara’s encounter with State Senator Sarah Anthony was particularly inspiring, highlighting the importance of representation in advocacy.
Aisha Brown, a 41-year-old mother of two, also found her voice through the program. Previously active in school board meetings and the PTA, Aisha credits Parents on Policy with teaching her the structure needed to advocate effectively. Now the PTA Vice President, she regularly speaks on behalf of those in need and continues to be a dedicated advocate.
Corey Brown, a father of two boys and an early education teacher, joined the program after seeing a flyer for Parents on Policy. Passionate about early childhood education and literacy, Corey presented on Universal Pre-K, a key policy shift being advocated by the Governor and the Michigan legislature. He now feels equipped to advocate for his policy agenda and contribute to early childhood education across the state.
The program’s culminating exercises for the fellows include:
- Parents on Policy Learning Lab at the Mackinac Policy Conference: On May 28-29th, fellows will participate in a deep dive into policy and legislative roles, focusing on the Governor’s budget. The Learning Lab combines classroom learning with experiential learning on Mackinac Island and in Mackinac City. On May 29th, from 2-4 pm, fellows will interact with legislators and stakeholders at the Mackinac Island Park Conference Center.
- Parents on Policy Virtual Townhall: In collaboration with Education Trust Midwest and the Autism Alliance of MI, DPN will host a virtual town hall on May 30th from 1-3 pm. Moderated by DPN CEO Jametta Lilly, Education Trust Midwest CEO Amber Arellano, and Autism Alliance of Michigan’s Director of Education Initiatives Heather Eckner, the event will feature policymakers discussing health, education, workforce, and judicial equity. An in-person watch party will be held at DPN’s main office for parents and partners to network and debrief.
- Advancing Parent Voices and Civic Engagement: This summer, DPN will collaborate with Southeast Michigan legislators, community organizations, and policy experts to host multiple “Parents on Policy Pop-Ups.” These events will provide a platform for community parents to discuss local and state issues, enjoy a meal, and explore ways to empower family voices in upcoming elections.
These events are part of DPN’s broader initiative to engage in policy issues affecting children and families, such as literacy, the Right to Read law, education equity, and appropriations to support families across the state. DPN plans to expand to 10 additional counties by 2025.
Applications for the Fall 2024 cohort of Parents on Policy will open soon. For more information, visit DPN’s website or contact advocacy@detroitparentnetwork.org.
