Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT)

LIT (Leaders Igniting Transformation) is a coalition of youth in Milwaukee working to create local solutions to very serious issues. LIT is led by youth and young adult leaders from the community. We aim to impact the daily lives of individuals with the hope that ignites long term structural transformation that changes the life trajectory for youth and young adults of color in Milwaukee.

LIT, a multiracial youth led organization, works to build homegrown leadership, expanding access and opportunity, and promote an equitable society.

Formed as an independent nonprofit in Fall of 2017, Leaders Igniting Transformation (LIT) is a youth of color led organization. LIT engages in values-based issue and electoral organizing, direct action, advocacy for public policy, and leadership development.

On campuses and communities in Milwaukee’s key geographies, we organize young people to build independent political power for social, racial and economic justice.

Since our founding we launched two game changing campaigns;

From Failure to Freedom: This campaign focuses on the systematic criminalization of Black and Brown youth, and youth with disabilities, in schools as one of the most blatant and egregious examples of systemic racism and violence in this country.

In April of 2018 we released a report titled From Failure To Freedom: Dismantling Milwaukee’s School-to-prison Pipeline With The Youth Power Agenda.

BROKE AF: This campaign focuses on the need to address the raising student debt problem that too many students are facing. We believe debt keeps education out of reach for too many, and people who are qualified and want to go should be able to obtain education after high school without debt.

Learning after high school should not be a privilege of a wealthy few, and all students should have the ability to pursue their dreams. That is why we have committed to hitting the ground and knocking thousands of doors, and engaging with thousands of people at block parties and festivals so everyone has a chance at their dreams.

This is just the beginning of our journey, so buckle up and get ready for a ride that transforms society within our lifetime.

Approach / Service

Advocacy Building awareness Coalition building Organizing Political action

Type of Organization