St. Louis, MO – August 27, 2024 – The Conscience and Justice Council (CJC) is pleased to announce its Annual Convention, set to take place from September 18-22, 2024, at the St. Louis Airport Marriott in St. Louis, Missouri. Marking a decade since the pivotal events in Ferguson, this year’s theme, “10 Years After Ferguson: Walking or Talking,” will serve as a reflection on the progress made and the steps still needed toward justice and equity.
The convention will feature a diverse range of sessions and presentations addressing critical social justice issues. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in discussions and hear from a variety of speakers, including community leaders, legal experts, mental health professionals, and faith leaders. The agenda will cover topics such as racial justice, civic engagement, the impact of generational trauma, and more.
Convention Highlights:
- Pre-Conference Tour (Sept. 18):
Participants can embark on a pre-conference tour, which includes a visit to the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum for an immersive experience, as well as a tour of the Streets of Ferguson. This tour provides insights into the historical and contemporary perspectives of the events that unfolded in Ferguson, accompanied by dinner at the renowned local eatery, Imo’s Pizza. - Kickoff Plenary Session (Sept. 19):
Featuring the keynote “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot,” this session will include panelists such as Michael Brown, Sr., founder of Chosen for Change, and other distinguished speakers who will discuss the legacy of Ferguson and the ongoing fight for justice. - Evening Plenary Session (Sept. 19):
Renowned activist and community leader Father Michael Pfleger, Pastor of St. Sabina Catholic Church in Chicago, will deliver a compelling address titled “Justice in Action.” Father Pfleger’s long-standing commitment to social justice and his work in communities affected by violence and inequality will inspire attendees to reflect on actionable ways to advocate for change. - Breakout Sessions: (Sept. 20)
Attendees can choose from various tracks, including the Conscience Track, Justice Track, Pastors Track, and General Track, to engage with specific issues such as criminal nationalism, gun violence, diversity and inclusion, voter empowerment, and environmental justice. - Plenary Sessions and Worship Experiences: (Sept. 20-22)
The convention will feature numerous plenary sessions addressing key themes such as Christian Nationalism, the impact of historical events like Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, and the role of religious communities in fostering civic engagement. The event will culminate with worship experiences and a celebration of best practices in community change.
For more details about the event schedule, session topics, and speakers, please refer to the full convention agenda available at cjcouncil.org.
Registration Information:
To register for the Conscience and Justice Council Annual Convention, visit https://register.adventsourceevents.org/2024CJC/home or contact AdventSource at 800.732.7587.
Join us as we commemorate the past, evaluate the present, and look toward the future.
About the Conscience and Justice Council
The Conscience and Justice Council is comprised of Regional Conference Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) Directors and the regional representatives for the North Pacific and Pacific Union Conferences of Seventh-day Adventists in serving the regional churches across the United States of America. The council seeks to equip and empower anyone interested in public affairs and religious liberty through the practical application of the Bible.
