If there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s that real change happens when we come together to confront injustice. As we approach the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Baton Rouge is inviting all of us to rediscover the legacy and lessons of King’s Poor People’s Campaign in a new light—right here, right now.
On January 17, 2025, the city will host the 2025 Disrupting Poverty Summit.
A day dedicated to exploring the roots of poverty, sharing resources that can move us toward economic equality, and activating the collective power we already hold. This isn’t your typical conference; it’s a community-driven gathering that welcomes everyone to the table. We’re dreaming big and working intentionally to ensure every voice is heard and every need is recognized.
Why Now?
Dr. King’s final campaign set out to tackle a struggle that remains all too familiar: systemic poverty. Today, in Baton Rouge, that struggle still weighs heavily on far too many families. The 2025 Disrupting Poverty Summit is our chance to channel Dr. King’s vision into a modern movement, one that lays out concrete strategies for challenging the status quo. Instead of just talking about what’s wrong, we’ll share what’s already working and strategize about how we can build more robust support systems that actually serve the people who need them.
What to Expect
Think of this summit as a learning experience, a think tank, and a call to action rolled into one. We’ll dive deep into the 9 Drivers of Poverty, making sense of the forces holding communities back. We’ll honor King’s legacy, not as a distant memory, but as a living roadmap guiding us toward a more equitable future.
But it’s not just about information. It’s about empowerment. We want everyone to leave knowing how they can make their voice matter, whether it’s by connecting with civic engagement groups, joining local advocacy efforts, or forging new collaborations with their neighbors.
A Space of Reflection and Forward Momentum
Expect an atmosphere that honors the spirit of Sankofa, looking back to understand our journey forward. We want the summit to feel like stepping into a gallery that tells a story: images that connect the past with the present, powerful testimonials from people who’ve fought (and continue to fight) this battle, and purposeful conversations in every corner of the room. Yes, we’ll talk about the systemic challenges, but we’ll also celebrate the triumphs and inspire each other to roll up our sleeves and continue the work.
Join Us in Building a Better Baton Rouge
If you’re hungry for real change, if you believe that economic justice is a dream worth pursuing, and if you’re ready to help shape a community where everyone can thrive, this summit is for you.
Mark your calendar: January 17, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM (location to be announced soon).
Let’s come together, share what we know, learn what we need, and ignite a movement that King himself would recognize. Let’s step forward with courage, guided by the past and determined to forge a more just and equitable future.
Stay tuned for more details on the event’s schedule, featured speakers, and how you can participate. Until then, spread the word. Because when we lift up those with the least, we strengthen our entire community and that’s the kind of legacy King would be proud of.
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