Dozens of young professionals, politicians, students and community leaders will come together this week in Orlando, Fl., at the NAACP’s 11th Leadership 500 Summit.
Through networking and leadership seminars, the annual conference unites some of the most influential voices within the Black community. Participants will brainstorm solutions to improve the educational system, reform the criminal justice system and economically empower African-Americans.
“Through outreach to innovative leaders and professionals, the NAACP is introducing and grooming a younger cadre of professionals and thought leaders to help lead the NAACP,” NAACP Chairman Roslyn Brock said in a press release. “This conference will provide current and aspiring leaders opportunities to hone their leadership and professional development skills while connecting them with their peers who share a passion for social justice and making meaningful impacts in their community.”
This year’s theme, “Race in Politics,” aims to teach the Black community to channel its frustrations about the recent spate of high-profile police killings into political action.
“We look forward to convening in my home state of Florida to discuss ‘Race in Politics’ and to continue the rallying cry among our youth that ‘Black Lives Matter,” Brock said. “Courage will not skip this generation.”
This year’s conference will take place May 21-24 at Orlando’s Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel. Tickets are still available at l500.org.