Reflections on the Community Research for Liberation National Convening 2026
Presenters at the Community Research for Liberation National Convening
When the Research in Action team reflected on how we would measure success for the first Community Research for Liberation National Convening, we did not begin with attendance numbers or fundraising goals.
Instead, we asked ourselves a different question: Did we create a space where people could experience joy, healing, connection, and possibility together?
We are deeply grateful to say that the answer was a resounding yes.
Throughout the convening on June 11 and 12 here in Minneapolis, the rooms were filled with laughter, curiosity, wisdom, and warmth. Again and again, participants approached us to share two powerful reflections: “Thank you and your team for bringing this vision to life,” and “I didn't know how much I needed this until I arrived.”
Plenary panel (from left): Tyrai Brunson (moderator), Dr. Brittany Lewis, Dr. Zuri Tau, Dr. Monique Liston
Together, we created more than an event—we built a new table. A table where local and national leaders gathered not only to learn, but to heal; not only to imagine change, but to commit to it. We explored the powerful relationship between healing, community transformation, and action research, while cultivating the relationships and courage needed to move our work forward.
See photos from the convening and watch key content on our YouTube channel!
It was an extraordinary honor to hold space with such brilliant, compassionate, and visionary leaders. In a time when so many forces seek to divide us, this convening reminded us of what is possible when we come together with purpose, humility, and love. We left inspired not only by what we accomplished, but by what we now know we can build together.
Here’s just a few of the reflections we received from the 84 attendees of the opening night and 110 attendees of the full-day convening.
“This was incredible. I can't even put into words fully because I am still processing the impact this had on my body but I left and sent so many voice notes to my Black women, girls and femmes friends to tell them that I love them and am proud of them and that we got each other. I left this space full of love, hope and care.”
“Overall, this was an incredible experience for me. It helped me work through some things I've been struggling with in my professional life and I left feeling so hopeful about the future of liberation work.”
“I'm truly a different woman due to this conference.”
“I left being reminded how magical Black women, girls, and femmes really are.”
“I enjoyed being in a room full of thoughtful people working together to do better as accomplices in liberation. There were many thoughtful reflections and nuggets of wisdom from facilitators and attendees.”
“I loved listening to Dr. [Monique] Liston’s keynote. It was genuinely the best keynote I’ve ever had a conference/convening. Dr. Liston’s mix of humor and thought-provoking words cut deep and were so empowering.”
“Do the inner work to be well! Yes, sweetheart, I want to be well. This is actionable. Wellness is linked to inner healing, knowing, and being collectively. Dr. Liston is the truth. That sista's alright with me.”
“I was struck by the tenacity, courage, and authenticity of the panel.”
“[The panel] affirmed the challenges I'm currently going through as a newly minted nonprofit founder. I felt seen and connected.”
“Partnerships are never perfect, but can always be worked on. The intention we put into them sets the precedent.”
“Our collective knowledge from our DNA and our current connections will build the future for our generations. We are the future.”
We need your support to make sure this necessary convening continues in the future. If you’d like to be involved, please share your interest in this short form by July 31!