State of the People – Richmond, Virginia Tour Stop

Friday, May 16: Welcome Reception + Call to Action

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | The Len – 15 N 17th St, Richmond, VA 23219

Join us for a Welcome Reception as we kick off a powerful weekend of movement building rooted in service, solidarity and strategic action. As national political tensions rise and impact Black communities across the country, we turn our attention to the State of Black Virginia—honoring the legacy of those who came before us as we forge a collective path forward.

This evening is more than a gathering—it’s a call to action and the official launch of a weekend dedicated to power building. We’ll hear from Black leaders across local, state and national levels as they speak to the urgency of this moment, highlight the unique challenges and opportunities facing Black Virginians and challenge us to organize with clarity, courage and commitment.

The reception will feature activations, connection-building and collective visioning—all designed to energize our movement and ground us in the purpose of what’s to come.

Music by DJ Ease

Happy Hour Cocktails

No Cover

Register to Attend naacpva.us/StateOfThePeople

Saturday, May 17: Day of Power – Rally, Restore & Reimagine

12:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Abner Clay Park – 200 W Clay St, Richmond, VA 23220 | Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia – 122 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23220

Join us as we come together to bring the full vision of the tour to life with urgent collective action, vibrant culture and community joy in Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward, a neighborhood that has long stood as a pillar of Black strength, resistance and legacy. As we honor its rich history, we must act now to shape a future of sovereignty, liberation and transformative change.

Main Stage – Abner Clay Park

Expect an inspiring lineup of panels, performances and keynotes from local, state and national Black leaders & performing artists, addressing the critical issues impacting our communities and laying out a roadmap for collective action, resilience, and lasting change.

Community Resource Village

Connect with grassroots organizations, service providers and movement builders offering tools and resources to sustain the fight and support Black communities in Virginia.

Food + Family Zone

Enjoy food trucks, kids’ activities and spaces for wellness and joy for the entire family.

Breakout Sessions – Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia

Inside the museum, 45-minute interactive sessions & panel discussions will delve into key topics impacting the Black community. These sessions include:

• Building An Economy That Loves Black People: Participants will engage in designing an economy that uplifts and supports Black communities, focusing on reparative capital, wealth creation and economic freedom.
• State of Black Women: A powerful discussion on the unique experiences of Black women, exploring issues of identity, resilience and the vital role they play in shaping community and culture.
• State of Black Men: This session will focus on the challenges and strengths of Black men, addressing societal expectations, mental health and strategies for personal and collective empowerment.
• Gun Violence & Prevention: A crucial dialogue on the impact of gun violence on Black communities, exploring preventive strategies and pathways to healing and protection.AND MORE …
• RBRE Food Trucks
• The Art Seen Marketplace
• Community Resources
• Live talent representing 757 and RVA

Register to Attend naacpva.us/StateOfThePeople