Our Story
Founded in 1977, Santa Cruz Barrios Unidos (SCBU) has dedicated itself to healing communities and fostering sustainable peace. With a rich history rooted in the Civil Rights movement, SCBU has provided culturally-driven and spiritually-informed services to youth and adults in marginalized communities. From middle schools to maximum security facilities, the organization has been a beacon of hope, addressing interpersonal, community, and structural violence.
SCBU organized the first transcultural, incarcerated gang prevention summit in 1993, known as the Kansas City Peace Summit. The Peace Plan that emerged from this summit continues to inspire and guide the incarcerated community across California.