Policy Institute @ GDS

Currently in its 12th year, the Policy Institute at GDS is an incubator for activism run by The Impact Lab @ GDS. For four weeks each summer, high school students from across the DMV learn about pressing social justice issues of global and/or national importance through conversations with advocates and lawmakers, travel to “ground zero” cities where focus issues are most prevalent, and relationship-building with individuals directly impacted by policy decisions. The Policy Institute is a truly student-centered, hands-on, immersive learning experience that utilizes the United States as a classroom and prepares participants for meaningful action, during the summer and beyond.

The Policy Institute @ GDS honors the dignity and worth of persons impacted by inequity, injustice, and oppression and strives to create a more socially just community and world. 

Please contact us at policyinstitute@gds.org with any questions.