About Us
Brown Issues is cultivating the next generation of Brown leaders through:
Civic Engagement, Narrative Change and Healing.
Our Story
Many of our roots trace back to South Sacramento, often called “SouthSac Iraq” because of its notorious violence. For us, this nickname reflects the war-like conditions our youth have faced for decades—where every day was a fight for survival, safety, and dignity.
Our movement began at Sacramento City College, when a group of passionate Latino students, confronting widespread discrimination and limited opportunity, chose to act. They turned frustration into fuel, pain into purpose. Through organizing, storytelling, and solution-building, they sparked a movement rooted in love and focused on justice.
The seeds of this movement were planted in the Sacramento City College Cultural Awareness Center, where youth gathered around tables to openly discuss issues often ignored in classrooms; such as gang violence, mass incarceration, alcoholism, education reform, health care, immigrant rights, and more.
What started as spontaneous conversations grew into intentional discussions. Those discussions evolved into structured circles and from those circles, an organization was born.
That organization became
Brown Issues
What We Do
We work at the intersection of education, culture, and civic leadership to ensure Latino youth are seen, heard, and empowered.
With 20+ chapters across California, we create culturally rooted, emotionally supportive spaces where students feel a deep sense of belonging and are inspired to graduate, lead, and vote.
Through storytelling, organizing, and advocacy, we equip youth to challenge injustice and transform their communities from the inside out.
Why It Matters
Latino youth are too often overlooked, underestimated, and underserved. At Brown Issues, we know they’re not lacking brilliance or potential. They’re simply not being seen.
That’s why we exist: to uplift and empower Latino youth to reclaim their voice, power, and role in shaping the future.
By centering youth and equipping them to lead, Brown Issues isn’t just changing lives, we’re shaping the success of a multiracial democracy.
Where We Are
Our Advisors
Our strength comes from a dedicated group of leaders and organizers committed to uplifting Brown youth. Together, we foster a supportive environment rooted in cultural pride, healing, and civic engagement.