Urban League of Rochester to Host 7th Annual Interrupt Racism™ Summit: “We The People”

Rochester, NY – The Urban League of Rochester is proud to announce its 7th Annual INTERRUPT RACISM™ Summit, presented by ESL Federal Credit Union. The area's premier anti-racism conference will take place in person on Monday, November 2, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Rochester from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.

This year's theme, “We the People,” invites us to reflect on our shared responsibility to uphold the promise of democracy and defend our collective commitment to dignity, humanity, and the common good. As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and prepares for another consequential midterm election, the Summit will explore the meaning of democracy, whose voices are represented, and what it takes to ensure thatthe promise of equality and justice extends to everyone.

The Urban League is honored to welcome Wilfred U. Codrington III, Walter Floersheimer Professor of Constitutional Law at Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law and co-director of the Floersheimer Center for Constitutional Democracy, as this year's keynote speaker. Professor Codrington is a nationally recognized constitutional law scholar whose work focuses on voting, elections, constitutional reform, civil rights, and antidiscrimination. He is the co-author of The People’s Constitution: 200 Years, 27 Amendments, and the Promise of a More Perfect Union, which explores how generations of Americans have shaped the Constitution through amendments and movements for a more inclusive and democratic nation. His work offers an especially meaningful perspective on this year's theme and the ongoing responsibility to realize the promise of our nation's founding principles.

This year's Summit promises a full day of education, engagement, and inspiration for youth and adults. In addition to the keynote address, the program will feature 16 workshops led by local professionals and experts. Through dynamic presentations, interactive workshops, and opportunities for dialogue, participants will examine the systems, institutions, and individual actions that influence equity and justice in our communities.

Dr. Candice Lucas, Senior Vice President of Equity and Advocacy at the Urban League of Rochester, emphasized the importance of this year's theme and the responsibility it presents. ”We the People’ is more than the opening words of our Constitution. It is a reminder that democracy belongs to all of us, and that each of us has a responsibility to protect it”, Dr. Lucas, said. “The promise of equality, justice, and opportunity requires more than words. It requires our participation, our courage, and our willingness to stand up when those principles are threatened.”

The Summit will also feature the Urban League's annual Legacy Luncheon, recognizing outstanding individuals whose leadership, dedication, and contributions have made a difference in our community. This year's luncheon will include the presentation of the Joan M. Allen Legacy Award to Dr. Ruth Scott, honoring her extraordinary contributions and lasting impact as a Black woman leader in our community. Established in honor of Joan M. Allen, the award celebrates the leadership, resilience, and everyday contributions of Black women who make a difference in the lives of others. The luncheon will also recognize five outstanding community trailblazers: Kerry Gant, Constance Jefferson, Walida Monroe-Sims, Carla Perez, and Septimus Scott.

The Urban League of Rochester is deeply grateful to its presenting sponsor, ESL Federal Credit Union, whose support helps make this important gathering possible.

The 7th Annual INTERRUPT RACISM™ Summit will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Rochester, 125 East Main Street, Rochester, NY. The Legacy Luncheon will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For additional information, please visit www.urbanleagueroc.org/interrupt-racism-summit.