Event Information
The WEA Human and Civil Rights (HCR) Leadership Summit is a leadership development experience rooted in a "grow-your-own" philosophy and designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of educators committed to advancing racial, social, and economic justice. Centered on the theme Keep It 100, this year's summit challenges participants to lead with authenticity, courage, and purpose while confronting inequities within education, communities, and labor organizations.
The summit is intended for emerging and experienced leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of leadership through an equity lens and expand their ability to organize, mobilize, and create meaningful change. Participants will engage in interactive learning experiences grounded in the NEA Leadership Competencies Framework, explore systems of power and influence, and develop practical skills for leadership growth and community impact.
Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Hilario Benzon, Director of the Human and Civil Rights Department for the National Education Association, the summit will provide opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and action-oriented learning. Additional invited guests may include educational and civic leaders who exemplify courageous leadership and public service.
Waitlist Limit: 0/30
Courses
2026 HCR Leadership Summit (NC) (8.5hr)
Non-Clock Hour
Course Description
The WEA Human and Civil Rights (HCR) Leadership Summit is a leadership development experience rooted in a "grow-your-own" philosophy and designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of educators committed to advancing racial, social, and economic justice. Centered on the theme Keep It 100, this year's summit challenges participants to lead with authenticity, courage, and purpose while confronting inequities within education, communities, and labor organizations. The summit is intended for emerging and experienced leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of leadership through an equity lens and expand their ability to organize, mobilize, and create meaningful change. Participants will engage in interactive learning experiences grounded in the NEA Leadership Competencies Framework, explore systems of power and influence, and develop practical skills for leadership growth and community impact. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Hilario Benzon, Director of the Human and Civil Rights Department for the National Education Association, the summit will provide opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and action-oriented learning. Additional invited guests may include educational and civic leaders who exemplify courageous leadership and public service.Course Objectives
Participants will:
Explore WEA's vision and definition of leadership through an equity-centered framework.
Assess their leadership strengths and growth areas using the NEA Leadership Competencies Framework.
Examine how power, privilege, and systems influence leadership opportunities and outcomes.
Challenge traditional leadership paradigms and explore culturally responsive approaches to leadership development.
Develop organizing and mobilization strategies that strengthen member engagement and collective action.
Build knowledge and skills to advance racial, social, and economic justice within schools, communities, and professional organizations.
Identify specific leadership competencies and create a personalized growth plan for continued development.
Strengthen connections with a network of leaders committed to equity, belonging, and transformational change.