Summer Learning Series: Learning, Growing, and Connecting Reflections on the 2025 Conference on Racial and Social Justice: Three Years of Learning, Connecting, and Growing

For the third year in a row, I had the privilege of attending the 2025 Conference on Racial and Social Justice, held June 29–July 1 at the Oregon Convention Center in beautiful Portland, Oregon. Every year I look forward to this gathering, and once again, it did not disappoint. The conference, presented by the National Education Association’s Center for Racial and Social Justice, creates a powerful space where educators, students, activists, and community leaders come together to promote, protect, and strengthen public education while advancing racial and social justice in our schools.

The conference kicked off on Sunday, June 29, with check-in and registration, followed by an afternoon of learning and connection. “Putting Films to Work: How to Move People to Action Using Film,” a session that highlighted the power of storytelling through media to spark dialogue and inspire activism. It reminded me how important it is to use multiple platforms to reach people’s hearts and minds when advocating for equity in schools.

Monday was a full and transformative day. After an energizing breakfast and the Opening General Session, I joined a session titled “What Does ‘Decolonizing’ Mean and How Does It Relate to Social Justice?” This conversation pushed me to examine how curriculum, school culture, and even language can either reinforce or disrupt colonial narratives. It was challenging and thought-provoking, exactly what professional learning should be.

Later that morning, I attended “Healing Racial Battle Fatigue and Reconnecting with Joy.” This session deeply resonated with me and many others in the room. We explored the concept of racial battle fatigue, how repeated exposure to racism, microaggressions, and systemic barriers leads to exhaustion that goes far beyond simple burnout. The facilitator used the powerful metaphor that a single microaggression might feel like a small cut, but enough cuts over time can leave a person wounded. We reflected on factors in our lives that affect our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. For me, it was an emotional but affirming reminder that self-care and joy are vital tools of resistance. We also learned practical ways to center joy in our classrooms and professional lives, set boundaries, and protect our energy so we can continue doing the hard work of equity and justice.

The afternoon brought another round of powerful sessions. “Abolitionist Teaching: From Survive to Thrive” challenged educators to reimagine classrooms as spaces where marginalized students don’t just survive but truly thrive. Later, “Organizing for Power & Justice: Practical Skills for All Leadership Levels” gave hands-on strategies for moving from vision to action, something I know I can apply in my own district work.

Each conversation throughout the day reinforced one of my favorite things about this conference: it’s not just about theory—it’s about action. Whether it’s rethinking how we support teachers of color, building inclusive curriculum, or organizing for fair policy, the sessions help you leave with concrete tools and renewed purpose.

On the final day, Tuesday, July 1, we gathered for the Closing General Session. The energy was hopeful and determined. Even after three full days, attendees were still buzzing with ideas and possibilities. We celebrated the work that’s already happening in schools across the country and recommitted to pushing for equity and justice in our communities.

Having attended this conference for three consecutive years, I can confidently say that it is one of the most meaningful professional experiences I’ve had as an educator. Each year, I leave with new strategies, renewed energy, and an expanded network of colleagues who are deeply committed to addressing the same issues. I greatly value the opportunity to learn from educators operating in diverse contexts; urban and rural settings, large districts and small schools, and to hear how they are advancing racial and social justice in their communities.

As I return to my own work, I feel encouraged, inspired, and energized to continue advocating for equitable and just learning environments. The 2025 Conference on Racial and Social Justice was once again a hub of growth, connection, and hope.

This post is part of my Summer Learning Series, where I’m sharing key takeaways from the professional learning experiences that shaped my thinking this summer. I encourage you to follow along and check out the other posts as I continue reflecting on what I’ve learned—and how it will impact my work moving forward.

🟡 Stay tuned for my thoughts on Exploring Black Literacy, Identity, and Activism at the 2025 Conference on Racial and Social Justice.