The 20th Annual NC Black Summit, hosted by NC Black Alliance, is set to convene leaders, advocates, and community members for a powerful gathering focused on strengthening Black civic engagement across the state. This year’s summit marks two decades of building, sustaining, and advancing Black civic power in North Carolina.
Among this year’s featured participants is Dawn Blagrove, who will serve as a panelist during the preconference session, “Ballots, Battlegrounds, and the Balance of Power in NC.” This timely discussion will explore the evolving dynamics of voting rights, electoral influence, and grassroots organizing in a state that continues to play a pivotal role in national politics. Blagrove’s leadership and deep experience in justice advocacy promise to bring valuable insight to the intersection of policy, power, and community action.
The summit will also celebrate the achievements of Kerwin Pittman, who will be honored with an award recognizing his impactful work and leadership. Pittman’s journey—from incarceration to becoming a powerful voice for reentry and justice—embodies the transformative potential of second chances and community support. His recognition at the summit underscores the importance of lived experience in shaping more equitable systems and uplifting those directly impacted.