Black women leaders, policymakers, and advocates gathered at Clark Atlanta University for a groundbreaking symposium that promises to reshape conversations about policy, wellness, and leadership. The event marked a powerful conclusion to Women’s History Month, bringing together diverse voices to drive meaningful change.
Breaking Barriers: A Transformative Policy Dialogue
Clark Atlanta University’s W.E.B. Du Bois Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy hosted its second annual Black Women and Public Policy in the South Symposium. Running from March 24 to 26, the event united remarkable minds committed to advancing Black women’s interests across multiple sectors.
Dr. Joseph Jones, the executive director, and Dr. Nykia Greene-Young, domestic policy coordinator, set the tone for an empowering three-day event. Their opening remarks emphasized the critical role of Black women in shaping public discourse and policy frameworks.
Wellness and Empowerment: A Holistic Approach
The symposium’s theme, “When and Where We Enter…Black Women Are In Power,” went beyond traditional conference formats. Morehouse School of Medicine’s Pilar Jackson moderated a compelling session on Black women’s mental health, exploring wellness across generations.
Participants delved into nuanced discussions about self-care, professional challenges, and intergenerational healing. The conversation highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting Black women’s emotional and psychological well-being.
Labor and Leadership: Challenging Workplace Dynamics
A powerful roundtable discussion titled “When, Where, and How We Work & Thrive” examined Black women’s experiences in the labor force. Experts dissected current workplace policies and strategies for creating more inclusive professional environments.
The session confronted systemic barriers while celebrating Black women’s remarkable contributions to various industries. Participants shared personal experiences and collective strategies for advancing workplace equity.
Creative Expression: Amplifying Black Women’s Voices
Artistic elements enriched the symposium through collaborations with Sister Song. Dance performances and spoken word artists provided powerful narratives that complemented the policy discussions.
These creative expressions offered a holistic celebration of Black women’s multifaceted identities, demonstrating that policy work intersects with cultural storytelling and artistic representation.
Closing with Strategic Vision
The symposium concluded with the Advancing Black Strategist Institute’s Black Worker Research and Strategy Presentation. This final session underscored the event’s commitment to generating actionable insights and forward-thinking approaches.
Ultimately, Clark Atlanta University’s symposium delivered a resounding message: Black women are pivotal architects of social change, policy innovation, and community transformation.
