The first panel set the tone for the conference by highlighting the importance of grassroots advocacy and community involvement in justice reform. Speakers, including Dr. Joseph Wilson, Germain Thompson, and Solomon Acevedo, shared their experiences in advocating for change. Emphasizing the school-to-prison pipeline, the panelists stressed the need for alternative education programs and community engagement. The call to actively engage in the system and hold elected officials accountable resonated as a powerful way to drive positive change.

The Family Justice panel, in collaboration with Claudio and Associates, delved into the profound impact of incarceration on individuals, families, and communities. Desiree Claudio, Natalie Rios, and Aneesa Osborne underscored the importance of solidarity, legal representation reflecting diverse backgrounds, and understanding one’s rights. The discussion highlighted the need for self-education, particularly for people of color, to navigate the complexities of the justice system effectively.

The third panel explored the role of Artificial Intelligence in Law Enforcement, a timely and critical topic in today’s evolving landscape. Thought leaders Swalé Nunes and Aikido Sticatto engaged in a contentious yet essential debate on the implications of AI in policing. The conference aimed to foster an open environment where diverse perspectives on this complex issue could be shared, contributing to a well-informed community about the latest technological advancements and their potential consequences.

The concluding panel featured esteemed guests Ashanti Baptiste (@legalaidnyc), Mysonne (@mysonnenygeneral) and Ron Mills (@siriusxmmills), who brought deep, intriguing, and insightful perspectives to the arts and culture discussion. The conversation centered around the shared responsibility of shaping the lives of our youth and the importance of embracing and guiding them toward a positive and fulfilling journey. The panel highlighted the role of the community in making a lasting impact on the lives of the youth and fostering a sense of unity.