The Second Rainbow Coalition is a growing effort to bring people from all walks of life together, especially those who have often been pushed aside or unheard, to build a fairer, more caring, and united society. Inspired by a similar movement from the 1960s, this new version brings together folks of different backgrounds, races, ages, jobs, beliefs, and struggles.

We are living in a time of division, uncertainty, and big challenges: from climate change to injustice and inequality. The Second Rainbow Coalition believes we can face these challenges better when we come together, share ideas, and support each other.

Who's Involved?

This coalition includes everyday people, teachers, artists, students, union workers, elders, young people, and local organizers, who are passionate about making their communities stronger and more just. Many come from families and neighborhoods that have faced racism, poverty, violence, or exclusion. Their life experiences give them powerful insight into what needs to change.

Recreating the original Rainbow Coalition with the help of our elders. Dare to Struggle. Dare to Win. All Power to the People. Boots on the Ground.

People and groups in the coalition work in areas like:

• Local organizing and community support

• Teaching and education reform

• Protecting the environment and climate

• Defending the rights and lands of Native peoples

• Supporting families and reproductive health

• Creating inclusive art, stories, filmmaking, and other media

• Mutual aid and building alternatives to policing and punishment.

This is not a top-down movement. There’s no single leader. It’s a web of relationships, people connecting across cities and communities to learn, plan, and act together.

What Are We Trying to Do?

1. Keep the Spirit of the Original Rainbow Coalition Alive The first Rainbow Coalition, started in 1969, united Black, Brown, white Appalachian, Puerto Rican, indigenous, and Asian groups to stand together against poverty, racism, and injustice. The Second Rainbow Coalition builds on that spirit, believing that people from different communities can join forces to support one another.

2. Bring People Together Across Divides In a world full of division, racial, political, and economic, this coalition tries to rebuild trust, understanding, and human connection. We believe that real change begins with listening and caring.

3. Create Shared Tools and Spaces for Change We’re not just talking, we’re building things. Community schools, art and culture events, learning spaces, gardens, digital platforms, and places where people can come together to support one another.

4. Lift Up the Voices That Are Usually Left Out We learn from those who know struggle best: Native elders, formerly incarcerated youth, LGBTQ+ folks, undocumented families, and others often pushed to the margins. Their stories and leadership guide our path.

5. Bring Back Hope Many people feel tired, disconnected, or hopeless. The Coalition offers a way to reimagine what’s possible, through joy, culture, memory, and dreaming of a future where everyone belongs.