2024 in Review: Seven Questions for the Social Justice Learning Institute

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The Social Justice Learning Institute (SJLI), based in Inglewood, is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing communities of color across Los Angeles County and beyond.

With a focus on education, health equity, and youth empowerment, SJLI runs impactful programs that tackle systemic inequalities and help build stronger communities. In addition to its work in Los Angeles, SJLI has expanded its efforts to Houston, Texas.

California Black Media (CBM) recently spoke with Derek Steele, SJLI’s Executive Director. He discussed the organization’s achievements, challenges, and future plans. Steele, a former engineer who transitioned into the field of health equity advocacy, has been at SJLI for more than a decade. His background in system-building and community organizing has shaped SJLI’s approach to solving critical issues like food insecurity and education disparities.

Responses have been edited for clarity and length.

What stands out as SJLI’s most impactful achievement in 2024?

SJLI’s Urban Scholars Program remains a bright spot despite our challenges. The program provided students with the academic support they needed to stay on track for graduation.

We maintained a 96% graduation rate across all sites. This fall, we’ve seen a 97% retention rate for students going into their second year of college This achievement is a testament to SJLI’s focus on bridging the gap between high school and college, ensuring that students have a smooth transition.

How has SJLI’s leadership and investments improved the lives of Black and Brown youth in LA County?

We must invest in both education and health. In addition to academic programs, SJLI has made a significant impact through our health equity initiatives, particularly in food access. Just last year, we distributed 1.2 million pounds of produce throughout LA County. This, along with their retreats and college tours, provided much-needed support for students and their families.

What has been the most challenging aspect of SJLI’s work in 2024?

While there was progress in 2020 and 2021 following the social justice movements, many of the commitments made during that time have since been rolled back. This made 2024 particularly challenging as efforts to push forward key initiatives, such as the Black Student Achievement Plan at Los Angeles Unified School District, slowed down.

The challenge has been the full-throated walk back of a lot of those commitments.

What inspired SJLI to continue its mission despite the challenges of 2024?

SJLI’s dedicated team and the support of the community have kept the organization moving forward. Our staff members have a deep commitment to the mission, and they are true believers in what we’re trying to achieve. The involvement of the broader community has also helped. Community members come by on Fridays for our produce distribution, and some even join us at events like the equity social.

What is one lesson SJLI learned in 2024 that will shape its decisions in 2025?

One of the biggest lessons learned is the importance of building strong, aligned partnerships. SJLI has collaborated with the Brotherhood Crusade and BAM LA forming the Bloom Alliance—an initiative that stands for Building a Lifetime of Options and Opportunity for young Men which was launched by the California Community Foundation.

Partnership matters, but alignment in those partnerships really matters. Having a clear plan in place allows the organization to stay adaptable when challenges arise. You have to plan the work and work the plan.

What is the biggest challenge facing Black and Brown communities in LA County in one word?

The biggest challenge is displacement. With rising housing costs, many families are being forced out of their neighborhoods, some leaving the state entirely or becoming homeless.  More than 50% of people are housing burdened, spending over half of their income on housing. So, SJLI is working on Sankofa at Centinela, a 120-unit, 100% affordable housing development that will also house our new 25,000 square foot headquarters.

What is SJLI’s main goal for 2025?

SJLI’s main goal is to continue empowering youth leaders of color through education, leadership development, and community engagement. We are here to improve the overall health, education, and well-being of youth leaders of color by fostering leadership and providing resources. SJLI aims to help communities become self-sustaining and thriving.