Welcome

Founded in 2018 by a cross-disciplinary group of Black education leaders convened on Martha’s Vineyard, Innovation For Equity (IFE) remains at the forefront of bringing together inspiring leaders from across the education and workforce sectors, all united in a shared commitment to improving life outcomes for Black learners of all ages. The annual Black Education Forum, hosted by IFE, serves as a dynamic platform to identify significant challenges in this moment, promising innovations in response to these challenges, and opportunities to highlight and support these successes to ensure Black learners thrive.

Join us on August 14th for the 5th Annual Black Education Forum at the historic Old Whaling Church in Edgartown—a powerful convening of educators, employers, investors, policymakers, workforce professionals, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and advocates committed to advancing equity and opportunity for Black learners. This year’s Forum will once again be moderated by award-winning journalist Michele Norris and will feature an insightful panel of distinguished voices. Following the Forum, we will have a closing reception sponsored by Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC) which will offer space for continued reflection, connection, and community building.
 

2026 Black Education Forum Topic: All Politics is Local in the Age of AI

As artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes how we learn, work, and govern, its impact is not abstract — it is deeply local. From school board decisions and district policies to municipal leadership and community-based organizations, the realities of AI are being shaped in real time by those closest to the ground.

For Black communities, this moment presents both urgency and opportunity. While AI holds the potential to expand access, personalize learning, and drive innovation, it also carries the risk of reinforcing existing inequities if left unchecked. The question is not just how AI is developed — but who is influencing how it shows up in our schools, neighborhoods, and everyday lives.

Local leaders, educators, advocates, and communities are uniquely positioned to shape these outcomes. Their decisions determine whether AI becomes a tool for liberation or a mechanism that deepens disparity.

What does it mean to lead at the local level in an era defined by rapidly advancing technology? How can communities ensure that AI is implemented in ways that reflect their values, histories, and aspirations? And how do we build the capacity of local systems to not only respond to change — but to lead it?

In this conversation, we explore the intersection of policy, place, and possibility — and the power of local leadership to shape a more just and equitable future in the age of AI.
 

Moderator

Michele Norris (Moderator)

Washington Post Columnist; Former NPR “All Things Considered” Host; Founder, The Race Card Project; Author of "Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race and Identity"

Michele Norris is an award-winning journalist, author, and columnist known for her candid discussions about race, culture, and communication in America. With a background in radio and television, including hosting NPR's "All Things Considered," Norris is a trusted voice in American journalism. Her book, "Our Hidden Conversations: What Americans Really Think About Race and Identity," offers insightful perspectives based on her personal journey and interviews with influential figures. As a Washington Post Opinions Columnist, Norris sparks important dialogue on current events and social issues, challenging commonly held beliefs and biases. Her work has earned her prestigious awards, including a Peabody Award for her initiative, "The Race Card Project." With her thought-provoking approach, Norris empowers audiences to engage in conversations about complex topics and make a difference in their communities.
 

Panelists

Sondra Samuels

President and CEO, Northside Achievement Zone, Minneapolis
 

Rich Buery

CEO, Robin Hood

Additional Panelists coming soon!

Location

Sponsors and Supporters

  

Questions? Contact hello@innovationequity.org