The Vanderbilt University Initiative for Race Research and Justice (RRJ) will host their fifth JumpStart Virtual Conference for educators on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from 9:00am – 4:00pm CT. This professional learning opportunity will provide PreK-12 educators, graduate students, university faculty and staff as well as community members across the nation an opportunity to learn about ways to continue working towards racial justice and equity in the current climate.

In response to recent legislation across many states challenging the legitimacy and utility of teaching about race equity and justice in schools and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education,  this year’s conference theme is Racial Justice in a Changing Democracy. Keynote lecturers and breakout session facilitators will focus on the depth, breadth, and consequences of this issue and practical ways for educators to navigate these troubled waters.