Daddy’s Daughters is a tender and powerful conversation among the daughters of iconic and transformative civil rights leaders. Rooted in love and remembrance, this panel offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of those who called these giants of justice simply “Dad.”

In this deeply moving dialogue, panelists will share personal stories that highlight the joys and heartbreaks of growing up with fathers whose lives were shaped by courage, conviction, and sacrifice. Through reflections on family, freedom, and the ongoing fight for justice, they will speak to the ways these legacies live on—not just in history books but in their hearts, their work, and their everyday lives.

This session is a tribute to the bonds between fathers and daughters and to the enduring power of love to carry forward the work of justice. It invites us all to remember, feel, and reimagine the future through the lens of those who knew these heroes best—not only as leaders but as family.

Start your day with a light breakfast and networking opportunities as the doors open for our event. Registration will be available upon arrival.

Before diving into Day 2 programming, this short moment of reflection led by a young voice from our movement invites attendees to pause, breathe, and reconnect. Together, we’ll honor the legacy we’re building upon and prepare to engage with clear purpose and open hearts.

Moderator: Lance Wheeler

Panelists: Reena Evers-Everette, Corrie Cockrell Carter, and Courtney Cockrell

In this heartfelt moment, Corrie Cockrell Carter and Courtney Cockrell, members of the Evers family, will share their reflections on the legacy of Medgar and Myrlie Evers. With warmth and sincerity, they will invite attendees into the heart of their family’s story, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs that have shaped their journey. Through their voices, we will hear about the profound impact that Medgar and Myrlie’s work continues to have on the fight for justice and equality. This intimate sharing will honor the Evers family’s history and highlight the resilience, strength, and love that has carried them through decades of activism. As they reflect on the significance of the previous day’s events, this moment will serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing impact of the Evers family’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and how their legacy continues to inspire and shape the future.

Take a break and mingle with fellow attendees during the Meet & Greet in the lobby. Capture memories with pictures and collect autographs from notable figures.

This is a perfect opportunity to network and relax before the next session.

Experience a captivating performance by MADDRAMA Performance Troupe.

Lunch will be served.

Moderator: Pamela D.C. Junior

Panelists: Constance Slaughter Harvey, Hezekiah Watkins, and Jerry Keahey

This plenary session will delve into Medgar Evers’ leadership and personal experiences, sharing reflections from veterans of the Mississippi Civil Rights Movement. Panelists will discuss how his dedication to justice shaped the movement and what it was like to work alongside him in the fight for equality. Through personal stories and insights, the session will highlight how his commitment to justice inspired and motivated those around him, helping to ignite lasting change in the fight for civil rights.

Join political leader, author, and advocate Stacey Abrams for a powerful keynote on the evolving landscape of leadership in the fight for justice. Drawing on her experience at the forefront of political activism and voting rights advocacy, Abrams will reflect on the challenges and triumphs of building movements, combating voter suppression, and empowering communities to claim their rightful place in the democratic process. This inspiring address will underscore the critical role of courageous leadership in advancing equity and protecting democracy.

Moderators: Jada Barnes, Central MS Regional Coordinator, MS Votes Action Fund

In an era defined by rapid digital innovation, deepening political polarization, and shifting movement landscapes, community organizing remains a vital force for social and political transformation. This panel, led by Mississippi Votes, explores what it means to organize with communities—not for them—in the 21st century. From door knocking to digital organizing, mutual aid to movement strategy, panelists will examine how young organizers, grassroots leaders, and movement elders are reimagining power-building in their neighborhoods and across the South.

Together, we’ll unpack the tools, challenges, and evolving practices shaping community organizing today—especially in states like Mississippi, where systemic disenfranchisement persists but resistance thrives. The panel will uplift lessons from campaigns that center Black and Brown youth, rural communities, and queer and trans voices, while offering insight into how we build lasting infrastructure, not just momentary momentum.

Facilitators: Nikolis Smith & Henry Goss

This workshop explores the transformative power of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in advancing civil rights, social justice, and community empowerment. From digital activism to ethical AI, participants will engage with thought leaders, innovators, and historians to examine how technology can preserve history, amplify marginalized voices, and drive systemic change.

Moderator: Rukia Lumumba

Panelists: Charles Taylor, Tyler Harden, Porsha White, & Amir Badat

As we commemorate what would have been the 100th birthday of Medgar Evers, we close the 2025 Democracy in Action Convening by looking forward—toward the next century of possibility, purpose, and power in Mississippi.

The Next 100 is a collaborative closing plenary hosted by the Medgar & Myrlie Evers Institute and Mississippi Votes Action Fund, spotlighting the young leaders and visionaries who are shaping the civic and social justice movements of tomorrow. Rooted in the enduring legacy of Medgar and Myrlie Evers—and energized by the momentum of MS Votes' grassroots infrastructure—this conversation uplifts the Mississippians who are redefining what democracy looks like in the Deep South.

From restoring democratic tools like the ballot initiative to advancing justice in education, economics, and healthcare, these rising voices carry forward a lineage of activism, while boldly crafting new strategies for liberation. This is not just a passing of the torch—it’s a generational expansion of the fire.

As the day comes to a close, we gather to reflect on the transformative insights and collective power that defined the day.

Medgar Evers Sunday is a spiritually-rooted celebration that brings together faith leaders, artists, and community members to honor Evers’ legacy through worship, reflection, and unity. The service includes powerful musical selections, an interfaith sermon, interpretive dance, and closing blessings. The day concludes with an outdoor community meal and fellowship, affirming our shared commitment to continue the work.