SCLC Convention 2025

SCLC Convention | August 14-17, 2025

Legacy. Leadership. Love | Atlanta, GA
Legacy. Leadership. Love.
Convention
Sessions
Thursday, August 14 – Pre-Convention Leadership Day

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM 
Nonviolence Training Overview 
Presented by: Charles Alphin & Dr. Bernard LaFayette 
An introduction to the Kingian Nonviolence curriculum, this session equips chapter leaders and clergy with strategies for bringing nonviolence training into their churches and communities. Includes logistical guidance and national support opportunities. 

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM 
Chapter Training & Development 
Hosted by: National Office 
An in-depth look at how chapters work in tandem with the national structure. This session will cover chapter operations, reporting, branding, digital tools, and introduce new Chapter Bylaws and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure organizational alignment across all levels. 

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM 
Board of Directors Meeting 
Closed meeting for Board Members. Dinner provided. 

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM 
Valuing Our Land: Black Churches & Businesses 
Presented by: Thaddeus Dawson, ROV 
Explore how the misvaluation of Black-owned commercial property has distorted community net worth. This session outlines actionable solutions through commercial appraisal reform in partnership with the 10,000 Black Appraisers Initiative. 

10:30 AM – 11:45 AM 
The Role of AI and Faith 
Presented by: Adwoa Rey 
How can faith communities engage with Artificial Intelligence thoughtfully and ethically? Learn how emerging technologies will shape ministry, moral frameworks, and societal engagement—and how to lead with intention instead of reaction. 

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM 
Break for Lunch (on your own) 

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM 

  • Faith at the Heart of Social Justice 
    Presented by: Terrence Lester 
    From SCLC’s founding to today’s movement work, faith has been the compass of justice. This session examines the soul of advocacy—and the dangers of  

5:30 PM – Doors Open 
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM 

SCLC Awards & State of the Conference Address 

Semi-Formal Signature Event 
Join us as we honor exceptional leaders across the country whose work contributes to the building of a Beloved Community. This year’s ceremony will also feature the first official address from SCLC President DeMark Liggins, Sr., outlining the organization’s vision under the banner of Legacy, Leadership, and Love. 

10:00 AM 
Women of the Movement 
Presented by: Autumn Smith 
Too often overlooked, women have always been central to civil rights progress. This session celebrates their historical and ongoing impact and calls for intentional equity in recognition and leadership. 

1:00 PM 
Reclaiming the Ballot 
Presented by: Evan Milligan & Jutaune Gilchrist 
A look inside the historic Voting Rights case out of Alabama. Discover how legal strategy, organizing, and faith created a template for winning justice in a hostile landscape—and how to replicate it in your community. 

3:00 PM 
Black Trade & Diaspora Economics 
Presented by: Charles Brooks 
From rare earth materials to sustainable commodities, this session explores economic partnerships with African nations and how SCLC is engaging the diaspora to address poverty through trade and ownership. 

4:00 PM 
Legislative Priorities for 2025–2026 
Presented by: Kevin Kimble – SCLC Global Policy Institute 
A forward look at legislative initiatives in voting rights, economic equity, education, and global partnerships. Learn how to support policy work that strengthens communities locally and nationally. 

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM 
Love & Light Reception 
Hosted by: President DeMark Liggins, Sr. 
A relaxed closing celebration with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Attendees can network, reflect, and connect with leadership in a casual atmosphere to close out the convention.