Day 1 (July 26)
During the first day of the Symposium, we aim to answer the question, “What Is People Power?” The morning will begin with a welcome from Karen McNeil-Miller, president and CEO of The Colorado Health Foundation. We will then explore the unique types of power within each of us and the power structures that surround us, illustrated through mainstage panel discussions with community leaders, a chat with journalist and author Linda Villarosa, and afternoon exchange sessions. During a break, Ms. Villarosa will be signing books. If you don’t already have a copy of her most recent book, we will gift you a copy. An evening reception and movie screening will cap off the day.
Meet Linda Villarosa
Journalist Linda Villarosa is a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, covering race, inequality and public health. A former executive editor of Essence Magazine, she is the author of the book ”Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Racism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation.”
Day 2 (July 27)
After gaining a shared understanding of the types of power we possess on day 1, we will turn our attention toward inspiring action. On day 2 of the Symposium, we will showcase examples of individuals and groups using their power to advance equity. In addition to mainstage conversations and afternoon exchange sessions, we will be joined by entrepreneur Beatriz Acevedo. The evening festivities will include time for networking and connection with a dinner reception and our Celebrating Togetherness Dance Party.
Meet Beatriz Acevedo
Beatriz Acevedo is one of the leading inspirational voices and Latina entrepreneurs in the United States. She has dedicated her career to creating opportunities for the voices of diverse youth to influence authentic and positive depictions of Latinos in society.
Day 3 (July 28)
We’ll end our time together at the Symposium envisioning ecosystems in which we all utilize our individual and collective power to influence change. The morning will feature a conversation with writer Anand Giridharadas and exchange sessions centered around creating an environment where power is shared and leveraged to generate positive change. Artist, activist and educator Kerrie Joy will send us off with renewed energy and inspiration to use our power for good.
Meet Anand Giridharadas
Anand Giridharadas is the author of “The Persuaders: At the Front Lines of the Fight for Hearts, Minds, and Democracy” (2022), “Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World” (2018), “The True American: Murder and Mercy in Texas” (2014), and “India Calling: An Intimate Portrait of a Nation’s Remaking” (2011). A former foreign correspondent and columnist for The New York Times for more than a decade, he has also written for The New Yorker, The Atlantic and Time, and he is the publisher of the newsletter The Ink.