In revolutionary Oakland, queer activists Anayvette Martinez and Marilyn Hollinquest have created the Radical Monarchs, a social justice leadership program for girls of color. These kickass feminists find and express their identity, strength, and sisterhood through community activism. The Radical Monarchs are spreading their wings in the Bay and beyond. The future is female, and the future is now.

Building on Black Lives Matter and Black Panthers principles to center girls of color, Radical Monarchs provides a 3-year chrysalis for deepening cultural pride, allyship with other marginalized people, fierce sisterhood, and feminist activism. The girls, between 8 and 13, receive a radical education and real practice in standing up for themselves and the community.

The girls aren’t the only ones transformed; Anayvette and Marilyn are called to grow beyond remaining burnt out volunteers. As professional curriculum developers, trainers, and fundraisers, they are challenged by international interest in replicating their success. Meeting the moment, the Radical Monarchs are poised to fly free.