About the Conference
Get ready for three powerful days of inspiration, connection, and action. Now in its sixth year, the Black Boys & Men National Symposium returns to Battle Creek, Michigan, June 16–18, 2027—building on the welcoming environment, deep history, strong partnerships, and community involvement that have made Battle Creek a meaningful home for this national gathering.
The symposium brings together K–12 educators, higher education leaders, youth-serving professionals, community leaders, and changemakers committed to strengthening the systems and opportunities that shape the lives of Black boys and men.
At the symposium, you’ll:
- Explore innovative, evidence-informed practices making an impact across the country
- Learn from leaders and practitioners driving meaningful change
- Build connections with peers and partners committed to this work
- Engage in conversations designed to move ideas into action
- Experience the welcoming spirit and strong community partnerships of Battle Creek
Through dynamic speakers, interactive sessions, and shared learning, the symposium offers practical strategies, meaningful connections, and renewed energy to help advance opportunities for Black boys and men.
Join us June 16–18, 2027, in Battle Creek, Michigan, as we continue building connections, sharing solutions, and advancing opportunities for Black boys and men.
Goals for Symposium
Goal 1: Bring national partners together to outline a plan for success and create a pipeline to include K-12, higher education, and beyond.
Goal 2: Acknowledge the historical realities that have shaped outcomes for Black boys and men to create new realities.
Goal 3: Identify systemic barriers in order to generate discussion, ideas, and solutions for equity.
Goal 4: Create change agents by sharing leading practices and creating the capacity to create new and better outcomes.
Goal 5: Deconstruct and rebuild systems to create the conditions necessary for the success of Black boys & men.