SCLC Southern Christian Leadership Conference

08/25/2026

Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. received a special recognition honoring his lifetime of service to the Civil Rights Movement and his enduring commitment to nonviolence, justice, equality, and human dignity.
The recognition came from the office of U.S. Senator Cory Booker as an addition to the United States Congressional Record, ensuring that Dr. LaFayette’s extraordinary contributions to American history and the struggle for civil and human rights are formally recognized and preserved.
The presentation was made by Adwoa Rey of the National Council of Churches, during a moving moment of tribute to Dr. LaFayette’s decades of leadership, teaching, organizing, and advocacy.

08/25/2026

At the 67th National Convention of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) in Tampa, Florida, L.I.O.N. – Lafayette Institute On Nonviolence was honored for its dedication to advancing the principles and practice of nonviolence.
The award was accepted by Rozellia Kennedy, founder of the Lafayette Institute On Nonviolence and sister of legendary civil rights leader and nonviolence educator Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr.
Through education, training, community engagement, and the preservation of the philosophy of nonviolent social change, L.I.O.N. helps carry forward a powerful tradition that was central to the Civil Rights Movement and remains deeply relevant today.

08/25/2026

Ainka Sanders-Jackson accepted the award on behalf of the Selma Center, an organization rooted in the historic struggle for voting rights and social justice in Selma, Alabama.
This special presentation recognizes the Center’s important work carrying forward the principles of nonviolent social change that helped transform America and remain essential today.
The 2026 SCLC National Convention, themed “The Pursuit: What is Life and Liberty in America,” brought together civil rights leaders, advocates, community organizations, and supporters committed to advancing equality, justice, and human dignity

08/25/2026

The award was accepted on behalf of the museum by Curator Fred Hearns, whose work has helped preserve and elevate the stories of Tampa’s African American community and its important place in Florida and American history.
Through its exhibitions, collections, educational programs, and community outreach, the Tampa Bay History Center helps ensure that the experiences and contributions of generations past remain accessible to future generations.

08/14/2026

The Program, held in Tampa, Florida, as SCLC leaders, members, supporters, honorees, and guests gather for an evening celebrating leadership, service, justice, and the continuing work of the Civil Rights Movement.
The theme of the 2026 SCLC Convention, “The Pursuit: What Is Life and Liberty in America?”, challenges us to examine the meaning of freedom, equality, opportunity, and justice in America today.

08/14/2026

SCLC President and CEO DeMark Liggins, Sr. delivers his annual Presidential Address during the 2026 Southern Christian Leadership Conference Convention Banquet in Tampa, Florida.

08/08/2026

The Life and Legacy of Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. was honored throughout the SCLC 2026 Convention as highlighted in this Awards Night Gala video.

08/08/2026

SCLC Convention 2026 in Tampa, Florida where Love, Legacy, and Leadership was Celebrated and Strengthened as we enter the 70 year of Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 2027.
The Spirit of The Movement Continues!

07/04/2026

07/02/2026

July 2, 1964: President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act of 1964. July 2, 1964