The Just Us Arts (JUA) Initiative is a comprehensive arts and leadership development program that integrates nationally recognized social justice theater, creative workforce development, and culturally responsive performance experiences to support student growth and achievement. “JUA,” meaning Sun and Light, reflects the initiative’s deeper purpose, shining light on truth, identity, and opportunity, while also representing Just (J) Us (U) Arts (A): a powerful affirmation that the stories, voices, and creativity of our students matter. Serving students across cities and counties throughout California, the initiative engages young people in hands-on learning through historical research, scriptwriting, songwriting, poetry, choreography, acting, and full-scale theatrical production. Through the Justice Sunday Program, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., students collaboratively develop and perform historically grounded community plays, producing two to four original works annually. Anchored in five core tenets: research, writing, networking, public speaking, and leadership, the program strengthens academic engagement, builds confidence, and cultivates civic responsibility. Participants gain access to mentorship, scholarships, internships, career readiness training, life skills development, and real-world performance opportunities that prepare them to lead boldly, think critically, and serve as light in their schools and communities.
Just Us Film Lab
The Just Us Film Lab: Voices Through the Lens is a 22-week arts and creative workforce development program implemented by Future Leaders California in partnership with the California Arts Council, designed to promote youth voice, storytelling, and career development through original short films. Building on Justice Sunday, participants engage in theater, story circles, and cultural exploration before transitioning into a hands-on filmmaking lab. In the film lab, youth learn directing, cinematography, editing, and storyboarding while creating original short films alongside teaching artists and mentors. The program develops creative, leadership, and career-connected skills while giving young people a platform to share their voices. The initiative culminates in a community showcase where participants premiere their films and spark dialogue through youth-led storytelling. Throughout the program, youth also gain exposure to careers in media, production, and the creative economy while building teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By combining arts education with workforce development, the program helps participants see their stories as powerful tools for expression, advocacy, and future opportunity.
Justice Sunday Performance
The Justice Sunday Performance stands as a nationally recognized initiative devoted to commemorating the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This program encompasses a series of workshops designed to enhance skills and playwriting abilities, culminating in a two-hour theatrical production. Engaging students from local middle and high schools, collaborative brainstorming and writing sessions are overseen by Future Leaders California’s Justice Sunday Alumni. Together, they craft a script that undergoes meticulous rehearsal and refinement. Subsequently, the youth showcase their play at local theaters, where they partake in shadowing theater professionals, gaining insights into various facets of live production, including costume and set design, lighting, sound, and theater etiquette.
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Mentorship serves as a cornerstone in the mission of the Just Us Arts Initiative, dedicated to aiding disadvantaged youth and adults in enhancing academic achievements, navigating the path to adulthood, and embracing diverse life encounters. An integral element of the program is its alumni network, actively engaged with participants, offering avenues for scholarships, mentorship, internships, career advice, and practical exposure. These resources enhance personal growth and development, empowering individuals with valuable opportunities. The program presently boasts a retention rate of 64%, highlighting the effectiveness of JSAI’s peer-to-peer and near-peer mentoring initiatives. For more information, click here!
Justice Sunday Gala
The Just Us Arts Initiative Gala serves as a platform that not only nurtures but also commemorates the achievements of young individuals in various domains, including Leadership, Writing, Networking, Research, and Public Speaking. Over the academic year, students participate in programs facilitated by Future Leaders California (FLC) to effect positive change in their communities, cultivate essential skills, and set the stage for a future enriched with proficient communication practices. These practices reduce conflict in their communities, schools, homes, and with law enforcement. Engaging in collaborative endeavors within a team dynamic, students gain insights into coordinating and conducting conference-style interactions, while also acknowledging each other’s accomplishments. They are encouraged to hone their public speaking prowess before their peers and mentors, actively contribute to event logistics, stay abreast of upcoming organizational initiatives, and embrace volunteer opportunities within the community. Sharing personal projects and experiences beyond the Just Us Arts Initiative is also encouraged among the justice-impacted youth participants. FLC strongly advocates for volunteerism to create pathways for post-high school employment opportunities. Justice-impacted youth are introduced to additional avenues for personal growth, recognition, and community involvement during their initial years of adulthood, aiming to reduce recidivism rates, deter criminal behavior, and propel them toward a purpose-driven
Juneteenth
The Justice Sunday Juneteenth Review provides a platform for young individuals to showcase their talents through skit performances adapted from historical plays produced by the Just Us Arts Initiative at the Juneteenth festival in both the City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale. In parallel, art classes are conducted during the festival, focusing on BIPOC-inspired artwork. This initiative aims to connect youth with their heritage, promoting mental well-being by alleviating anxiety. Moreover, the review supports the continuous evolution of the program, allowing new students to participate alongside existing members. The event fosters community engagement through various activities such as children’s story time, face painting, and musical performances. Additionally, families of participating youth benefit from access to community resources.
Future Leaders California 