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THE NAPD

RACIAL JUSTICE CONFERENCE

November 2 - 5, 2026 | Montgomery, Alabama

When?

  • November 2 - 5, 2026

Where?

  • Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa
Room Block Deadline: Monday, October 12, 2026
Book Now

How Much?

Members

  • Early Bird: $600.00
  • Standard: $725.00

Non-Members

  • Early Bird: $725.00
  • Standard: $875.00
Early Bird Deadline: Monday, August 31, 2026
Register Now
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We’ll help you pitch it.

Don't spend hours trying to explain why you need to be here. Download our "Permission Slip for Adults" (aka our Convince My Boss Letter), add your info, and hit send. 

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What We Will Explore Together

Download the Draft Agenda

The Racial Justice Conference (RJC) curriculum is built upon four vital pillars designed to challenge how we view the world, transform our daily advocacy, and elevate the standard of justice for all clients. 

The Individual

Examine how we personally approach race, and learn actionable strategies to overcome our own biases and preconceptions.

The Workplace

Examine how we personally approach race, and learn actionable strategies to overcome our own biases and preconceptions.

The System

Delve into proven, effective advocacy strategies to challenge racial bias and discrimination wherever we encounter them.

The Roots

Confront the history that shapes our modern legal system through scheduled visits to the Legacy Sites (admission included in your registration).

Session Topics

  • Wrongful Conviction & Exoneration
  • Race and Capital Defense
  • Diversity in Jury Selection
  • Addressing Race in Openings & Closings
  • Leader Wellness & Recovery from Racialized Trauma
  • Equity-Centered Leadership & Organizational Structure
  • Supporting & Protecting Black Women in Professional Spaces
  • Systemic Justice & Civil Rights Advocacy
  • Recidivism Reduction & Transforming Incarceration Spaces
  • ICE, Immigration, & Civil Rights
  • Effective Negotiation Strategies
  • The Impact of Race on Decision-Making
  • Leading as a Black Defender
  • BIPOC Public Defender Shared Experiences & Collective Resilience
  • Community Engagement Strategies
  • Storytelling in Defense & Advocacy
Download the Draft Agenda

"The Racial Justice Conference transformed my practice. The insights on overcoming bias and challenging discrimination gave me concrete tools I use every day in representing my clients."

Maria Thompson
Chief Public Defender @ Cook County Public Defender Office

"Essential for building connections with colleagues who share our commitment to justice. The speakers and workshops provided strategies we implemented immediately in our office."

David Chen
Executive Director @ Defender Services of Eastern District

"RJC delivered practical frameworks for promoting racial equity in our workplace and cases. The visits to the Legacy Museum and Memorial deepened my understanding profoundly."

Jennifer Williams
Training Director @ State Public Defender Commission

Meet Our Speakers

Connect with national advocates and veteran public defense professionals who will challenge your perspective and equip you with practical tools for systemic change.

FAQs

What is the dress code?

The dress code for the conference is casual (jeans, t-shirts, etc.).

A quick heads-up for your packing list: Wednesday, Nov. 4th is T-Shirt Day! Wednesday and Thursday feature tours of the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Freedom Monument Sculpture Garden.

While these historic sites are just a short walk or drive from the hotel, the tours themselves involve a good amount of walking. We highly encourage you to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Will food be provided?

We will keep you energized with coffee, beverages, and a variety of snack breaks throughout the conference. Please note that formal meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will not be provided, so you'll want to plan those on your own.

Pro-tip: The hotel is surrounded by fantastic downtown Montgomery dining options, so you'll have plenty of great spots to choose from!

Is it possible to get a refund if I can no longer attend?

Our ability to offer a full or partial refund or credit is dependent on a number of factors, in order to balance the needs of our members with the fiscal responsibility of the association. You can read our full Event Refund & Credit Policy by clicking here.  

My question isn't answered here, how can I get in touch with you?

Please email us at events@thenapd.org and include RJC 2026 in the subject line.