1.The grassroots organization we would like to highlight is DRUM, also known as Desis Rising Up and Moving. DRUM is a multigeneration organization of low-wage South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrant workers and youth in NYC since 2000. They have effectively mobilized and built the leadership of thousands of low-income, South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants to lead social and policy change that impacts their own lives- from immigrant rights to education reform, civil rights, and worker’s justice. DRUM thrives through a Freirian approach to organizing and a model similar to Ella Baker, which we will elaborate on later on in fuller details.

Also, we would like to share a video clip of Roksana Mun, the Director of Strategy and Training at Desis Rising Up and Moving, sharing more information about DRUM and her career.

 While we mainly focus on DRUM as our main grassroots organizations throughout our case study, we would also like to shine the spotlight on the following organizations that advocate for equity for ELL students and their communities as well: 

1. The NYSYLC was the first undocumented youth-led organization in New York. We work to empower immigrant youth through leadership development, grassroots organizing, educational advancement, and self-expression. Our goal is to give undocumented youth the tools and space to organize and create change in our communities.
   
2. Studio in a School fosters the creative and intellectual development of New York City youth through quality visual arts programs, directed by arts professionals. The organization also collaborates with and develops the ability of those who provide or support arts programming and creative development for youth both in and outside of schools. As of November 19th, 2018, Studio in a School NYC has launched a major initiative to serve English Language Learners (ELL) in New York City public schools this school year.