Built By Us: Black Women, Power and The Next 250

Join Black women from across Mississippi as we reimagine power, possibility, and the next 250 years during ESSENCE Festival weekend.
About this Event

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Black women continue to be architects of progress, democracy, culture, and community. Join the Mississippi Black Women's Roundtable and One Voice during ESSENCE Festival of Culture weekend for a powerful gathering centered on the voices, experiences, and visions of Black women across Mississippi.

This interactive experience will bring together community members, advocates, organizers, students, entrepreneurs, faith leaders, elected officials, and everyday women to explore what the next 250 years should hold for Black women and our communities.

Through research presentations, storytelling, a dynamic panel discussion, music, and participant engagement activities, attendees will have an opportunity to reflect on where we are today and help shape a vision for the future.

What to Expect

• Insights from the Status of Black Women & Girls in Mississippi Report

• Highlights from the Black Action Agenda Survey

• Architects of the Future: Black Women, Power and The Next 250 panel discussion

• A special musical performance by Mississippi soul singer KIRBY

• Interactive activities and visioning conversations

• Opportunities to connect with Black women from across Mississippi

• A call to action focused on civic engagement, leadership, and community impact

Whether you are a longtime advocate or simply care about the future of Black women and girls, your voice belongs in this conversation.

Come ready to connect, imagine, and help build what comes next.