Equity & Justice Institute Offers a Year of Meaningful Programming

The Crossroads School Equity & Justice Institute, helmed by Director Cassandra Chase, advances systemic change through public engagement, community partnerships, and student-driven initiatives. In 2024-25, the Institute’s Distinguished Lecture Series explored the theme Sports and Social Justice: Championing Equity and Change. 

The series examined the power of athletics to shape culture, challenge inequities and inspire activism. In partnership with the LA84 Foundation, Crossroads screened “The Corner,” a documentary about Coach Daysi Garcia’s boxing mentorship program, followed by a panel discussion. In a conversation on equity in sports, resilience and using your platform for change, student-athletes and Athletics Director Ira Smith were joined by WNBA legend Angel McCoughtry. And trailblazer swimmer Schuyler Bailar shared his journey as the first openly transgender NCAA Division I athlete, inspiring attendees with a message of authenticity, inclusion and courage.

Members of the Crossroads community toured Holocaust Museum LA and participated in a lecture highlighting Bernd Stevens, a Jewish athlete barred from the 1936 Olympics. The event drew powerful connections between past and present struggles against antisemitism.

The year also marked the launch of the Institute’s new student-centered programming, including immersive social justice tours for Upper Schoolers around the city. Students explored queer landmarks and activism in Los Angeles, including the Black Cat Tavern, California's first designated LGBTQ+ historical landmark. In collaboration with STAND-LA, students embarked on a “toxic tour” of various sites, deepening their understanding of environmental racism and community resilience.

Other programming included a talk on voting rights and the second annual Black Film & Culture Festival, which honored the pioneering work of the late Harry Belafonte, a Crossroads grandparent. This summer, the Institute will host a Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools® site on the 21st Street Campus for the fifth consecutive year, providing reading, conflict resolution and social action opportunities to over 35 children from the Virginia Park community.

From film and cultural celebrations to transformative literacy and advocacy work, the Institute continues to champion equity while building a more inclusive and informed community.