YWCA Rock County is proud to announce its 11th Annual Racial Justice Conference, taking place on November 13–14, 2025. This year’s event will feature a unique two-day format, combining a half-day virtual conference on Thursday, November 13 with a full-day, in-person experience at Blackhawk Technical College on Friday, November 14.
The Racial Justice Conference brings together community members, leaders, educators, and advocates to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore solutions, and take action toward building a more equitable community. This year’s Racial Justice Conference theme, “Stand Up, Reach Out – Is racism shaping my everyday life?” is a call to action for individuals and communities to move beyond awareness and into meaningful engagement. We invite reflection and honest dialogue, racism is not only a systemic issue, but also a lived reality that affects individuals in visible and invisible ways. The conference creates space to acknowledge personal experiences while working collectively toward solutions that foster justice and belonging.
Early bird pricing is now available through October 20, 2025. Tickets may be purchased online at: https://whova.com/portal/registration/EyaOPoEctikcVLS8b4ff/
“Each year, this conference provides a vital space for learning, listening and leading,” said Heidi Deininger, YWCA Rock County Executive Director. “We are excited to continue these important conversations and bring together voices committed to racial equity and justice in Rock County and beyond.”
Both virtual and in-person sessions will offer attendees opportunities to learn from diverse speakers, participate in workshops, and leave with actionable strategies to create positive change in their workplaces, schools, and communities.
Event Details:
· Thursday, November 13, 2025 – Half-day Virtual Conference
· Friday, November 14, 2025 – Full-day In-Person Conference at Blackhawk Technical College (limited capacity)
· Early bird pricing ends October 20, 2025
· Register here: https://whova.com/portal/registration/EyaOPoEctikcVLS8b4ff/
For more information, please contact Heidi Deininger, Executive Director at hdeininger@ywcarockco.com.
1/2 Day Virtual Conference: Thursday, November 13, 2025
8:15 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.: Welcome - Heidi Deininger, Vanessa Beckham
8:35 a.m. – 9:35 a.m.: Keynote Speaker - Dr. Rick Daniels
9:40 a.m. – 9:50 a.m.: Break
9:50 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.: Community Leader Speaker - TBD
10:55 a.m. – 11:05 a.m.: Break
11:05 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Keynote Speaker - Vicki Clark
12:30 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Closing - Heidi Deininger