Radical Monarchs Bring Activism-Focused Youth Program to Los Angeles

The Radical Monarchs, an activist-oriented youth organization established in Oakland in 2014 as an alternative to traditional scouting groups, recently expanded its reach into the Los Angeles area.

In February, a group of eager preteens, identifiable by their brown berets and vests adorned with colorful, hand-sewn badges, visited the Huntington Library in San Marino. The girls were there to tour the 'Radical Histories' exhibit, which showcases six decades of Chicanx and Indigenous resistance through printmaking.

Learning from History and Art

Chaperones guided the tightknit group through the festivities, where attendees recognized them, exclaiming, "It’s the Radical Monarchs!" The Monarchs proceeded to the MaryLou and George Boone Gallery for an educational session.

Marvella Muro, former director of Self Help Graphics & Art and a parent volunteer, led the tour. Standing near Ester Hernandez’s satirical 'Sun Mad' screenprint, Muro outlined ground rules: respect the space, respect the artwork, and speak up. She then discussed the injustices that inspired the art, covering farmworkers' rights, environmental justice, and cultural identity.

Muro prompted a Monarch to share a personal experience of injustice. "I wanted to play soccer at my school, but the boys wouldn’t let me," the girl stated. Artist and parent Marissa Magdalena Sykes encouraged the youth, advising them to channel frustration into useful action to "change herstory."

Origins: Creating an Inclusive Space

The organization was co-founded by Anayvette Rivera-Amador and Marilyn Hollinquest in Oakland. Rivera-Amador, a San Francisco native and child of immigrants from Nicaragua and El Salvador, sought a more inclusive environment for her daughter than the traditional Girl Scouts offered.

"I wanted a group that centered her experience, brilliance and power as a young girl of color," Rivera-Amador explained. She desired a space where her daughter could learn about her culture, ancestors, and political education while developing critical thinking skills.

The Radical Monarchs serve girls and gender-expansive youth of color aged 8 through 13. Since its 2014 founding, the group has drawn inspiration from movements like the Black Panther Party and Brown Berets. After years of national requests, the organization expanded to cities including Denver, New York, and Minneapolis.

Growth and Expansion into Southern California

In 2023, the Radical Monarchs achieved 501c3 status. The following year, they launched troops in South Los Angeles and Long Beach. Rivera-Amador noted that Los Angeles holds special significance due to its rich history of community and resistance.

The need for such groups is underscored by local challenges. The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) ranks among the top 10 most segregated districts nationally, leading to educational disparities. While LAUSD has equity programs, external efforts, like a lawsuit from the Trump administration, sought to reverse these gains.

Vanessa Mendez, whose 9-year-old daughter joined the El Sereno troop, noted the benefit of connecting with other Latina and African American students where ethnic studies might be lacking in schools.

Addressing Systemic Issues in Schools

The challenges faced by families highlight the necessity of the Monarchs' mission. Angela McNair withdrew her children from an LAUSD elementary school after her son experienced repeated racial harassment, including being called the N-word. McNair felt the school administration failed to acknowledge the hate speech or implement restorative justice practices.

As parents navigate raising empathetic children amid political climate concerns, groups like the Radical Monarchs serve as vital sociopolitical support systems. Marylu Castillo stated, "Parents are stepping up. We, as a collective, as a community, are helping raise our children," emphasizing the desire for her daughter to create positive change.

Curriculum, Operations, and Challenges

Monarchs meet bi-monthly for a three-year cycle, earning badges focused on social issues. Examples include 'Radical Love' (self-love and LGBTQ+ rights), 'Radical Roots' (BIPOC history), and 'Pachamama Justice' (environmental care).

Troops engage in civic action, attending council meetings and fundraising for causes like the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund. Enrollment operates on a sliding scale, supported by three trained adult volunteer leaders per troop.

Francesca Lafayette, an El Sereno troop leader who learned about the group via a PBS documentary, emphasized the community building: "We built a network of friends and auntie figures so my daughter feels secure and loved."

The 2019 documentary, 'We Are the Radical Monarchs,' documented early activism, including support for Black Lives Matter and women's marches. This coverage led to attacks by conservative commentators like Sean Hannity, who accused the organization of exploiting girls.

Rivera-Amador confirmed that the safety of the children remains the top priority. Furthermore, the organization faced significant financial strain last year due to cuts in anti-DEI funding imposed during the Trump administration, resulting in staff layoffs. Rivera-Amador and Hollinquest now manage the national organization with minimal contractors, facing dire fundraising circumstances.

Despite these difficulties, parents find value in the program during critical developmental years. Margaux, an 8-year-old Monarch, shared her enjoyment of the activities, stating, "I love getting to do all the fun stuff like eating in the garden and making new friends."