A gathering for educators, leaders, and community partners committed to diversity, international-mindedness, and belonging.
Hosted by the Washington International School Institute for Teachers (WISIT), the Empower Conference is a three-day experience designed to foster bold conversations and practical action around diversity, international-mindedness, and belonging. Rooted in values of intercultural understanding, multilingualism, and social justice, Empower brings together those who are shaping learning environments where all identities are honored and critical thinking thrives.
Throughout the weekend, you’ll engage with inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, affinity groups, and community collaborations with DC’s world-class museums and social justice organizations.Conference Throughlines:
How can museums and community partners help us deepen our understanding of justice, identity, and belonging, both within our schools and across diverse community contexts?
How might we create more inclusive, culturally responsive learning communities that affirm student identities and cultivate liberation?
How can we turn our learning into sustained action, empowering students and ourselves to lead change in our schools and communities?
What to Expect Each Day
Day 1: Explore
Immerse yourself in workshop with DC’s cultural institute, reflecting on identity, justice and belonging through the lends of museums and community partners.
Day 2: Imagine
Deepen your practice with interactive workshops, affinity groups, and keynotes focused on creating inclusive, liberatory learning communities. Engage in dialogue and develop practical strategies for your school and classroom.
Day 3: Act
Focus on action planning and sustaining change. Participate in collaborative visioning, celebrate connections, and leave empowered to lead meaningful transformation in your community.
Cost
The Empower Conference costs $1,175 for three days.
There is an Early Bird Registration discount, for those registering before January 1st, of $975.
There is also a discount for Title One Schools and Groups of 3 or more registering before January 1st, of $775.
Breakfast and lunch are included on Saturday and Sunday. No meals are provided on Friday as we will spend our day at the National Mall. We will provide a list of food recommendations.
Keep checking back for event registration, speaker announcements, and more details. Need answers ASAP? Reach out to elise.stephenson@wis.edu for info and more.
