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LBS’ approach to policy advocacy is based on the community and political organizing methodologies embodied in the works of Malcolm X and Ella Baker.
Our political advocacy is based on the cultivation of deep relationships to many segments of the Black community and to use the support that this provides us as our primary leverage to advocate policy positions that are in the interest of Black people. Our ability impact policy is based on the years of community organizing and community service that has translated to a base of support that authentically represents the depth and diversity of the Black community in Baltimore.
We also tap into the rich cultural and intellectual resources that reside in our community to form the basis of our intellectual and political analysis. Our fidelity to the Black Radical Tradition and a worldview rooted in Pan Africanism guides the intellectual production that guides our approach to our political advocacy.
We are not controlled or housed by any mainstream institution. We will never allow ourselves to become puppets for a political establishment or pawns for philanthropists. We are unapologetic in our public policy demands aimed to improve the conditions of Black people.
We believe that Black people have and are the solutions to the oppressive conditions our communities face. We have strong ties with many Black professionals and businesses. We direct resources to many Black youth and organizers. We support the work of many Black-led service organizations and causes that center a multitude of Black identities.
Our deep love and desire to empower Black people prompts us to operate in a cellular and communal fashion. We embrace all the diversity of African-descended people and reject charismatic and messianic leadership caricatures.
We have a sincere commitment to achieving measurable results for marginalized communities. All of our policy efforts are purposed to transform structural arrangements that impede the quality of life of aggrieved communities.
