Intern, Policy Research - Democracy: Voting Rights (Fall2026)

Southern Poverty Law Center•Washington, DC

4h•Remote

About The Position

The SPLC is seeking highly motivated policy research interns who are passionate about democracy. The Southern Poverty Law Center offers internships to exceptional students enrolled in accredited graduate and law schools who possess strong academic backgrounds, excellent writing skills, and a commitment to public interest work. The Center is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people. As an internationally recognized nonprofit organization, the Center is dedicated to reducing bigotry and oppression through research and public education, outreach, litigation and policy advocacy. Candidates should demonstrate a passion for advancing civil rights and social justice issues, a strong interest in federal, state and local government advocacy, and be ready to partner on producing quality policy research that advances policy priorities. They should have a desire and drive to work in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people, and the ability to help the policy team conduct groundbreaking policy research to support advocacy strategies to influence positive change in the lives of communities – particularly Black communities and other communities of color – in the Deep South. Candidates must also demonstrate an awareness for SPLC's mission, vision, and values.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an accredited graduate or law school program
Strong academic background
Excellent research and writing skills

Responsibilities

Work alongside our Policy Research Team to research, write, and analyze data to support bold advocacy strategies in alignment with our voting rights initiatives.
Assist in drafting research memos, fact sheets, and other writings.
Collaborate with other members of the Policy team to support ongoing policy research needs.
Uphold our JEDI principles by seeking diverse collaborators and partners that can deliver genuine, authentic and impactful work while ensuring their contributions are directed towards the shared mission, vision and values of the Center and department’s goals.