A powerful lineup of community leaders, advocates, and changemakers will come together on October 31 to inspire conversations about leadership, opportunity, and building generational wealth.
The Black Men’s Legacy Summit returns for its fifth year on Saturday, October 31, 2026, bringing together influential voices, community leaders, and the next generation of changemakers for a day of meaningful conversations, education, and inspiration.
Presented by the 9000 Equities Initiative, this year’s summit continues its mission of empowering Black men with the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to build, protect, and pass on generational wealth.
Headlining this year’s event is renowned scholar, philosopher, author, and social justice advocate Dr. Cornel West, who will deliver the keynote address, State of the Nation.
Known for his powerful insights on race, democracy, justice, and the challenges facing America, Dr. West brings a thought-provoking perspective to the summit. His keynote will encourage attendees to reflect on the issues shaping our communities, the importance of leadership, and the responsibility we share in building a stronger future for the next generation.
Meet This Year’s Panelists and Speakers
Guiding attendees through the day’s conversations will be Freddie Bell, Master of Ceremonies, a respected broadcaster and familiar voice in the Twin Cities community.
The summit will feature an impressive lineup of speakers addressing topics that impact Black men, their families, and their communities.
Black Fathers and Their Sons
Presiding Bishop Richard D. Howell and Apostle Larry Cook
Fatherhood, mentorship, and strong family relationships play an essential role in shaping future generations. This discussion will explore the importance of Black fathers and the influence they have in preparing their sons for leadership, responsibility, and success.
Youth: Next In Line “Our Turn to Build”
Demitri McGee, James Cooper, Joseph Sutton, Brayshaun Gibson, and Jeremiah Allison
The next generation takes center stage as these panelists share perspectives on opportunity, leadership, and what it means to carry forward a legacy. This conversation will highlight the voices of young men and their role in shaping the future of their families and communities.
The Collective Kitchen
Warren McLean
Building strong communities requires collaboration, shared resources, and a commitment to creating opportunities. Warren McLean will lead this session, bringing attention to the power of collective action and community-driven progress.
Thriving Economic Opportunities to Build Legacies
Eric White, Henry Rucker, and Ryan Nestingen
Economic opportunity is a critical component of generational wealth. This panel will explore pathways to financial growth, economic empowerment, and creating opportunities that can positively impact families for generations.
Health is Wealth
Leonard Searcy and Anthony Taylor
True wealth extends beyond finances. Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are essential to building a lasting legacy. This discussion will emphasize the importance of prioritizing health while pursuing personal, family, and financial success.
Politics and Legacy
Don Samuels, Senator Bobby Joe Champion, and Alfred Babington-Johnson
Decisions made in government and public policy have lasting effects on our families, neighborhoods, and economic opportunities. This panel will examine the connection between civic engagement, leadership, and the role politics plays in shaping the future of Black communities.
Keynote Address: State of the Nation – Dr. Cornel West
A highlight of the day will be the keynote presentation by Dr. Cornel West, one of America’s most recognized public intellectuals and outspoken advocates for justice and human dignity.
Throughout his career, Dr. West has challenged audiences to think critically about the state of our nation, the importance of community, and our collective responsibility to future generations.
His appearance at Black Men’s Legacy Summit V promises to be a compelling moment, connecting the summit’s mission of building generational wealth with broader conversations about justice, opportunity, and the future of Black America.
Following the keynote, Adair Mosley will join Dr. West for a fireside conversation, providing an opportunity to further explore the ideas and perspectives shared during the address.
More Than a Conversation – A Call to Action
For five years, the Black Men’s Legacy Summit has created a space for honest dialogue, practical education, meaningful connections, and action.
This year’s event will also include a lunch networking opportunity, giving attendees time to connect with speakers, community leaders, and fellow participants.
From strengthening relationships between fathers and sons to exploring economic opportunities, health, politics, and the voices of the next generation, every session is designed to encourage participants to think about the legacy they are building today.
The day will conclude with a call to action, challenging attendees to turn what they’ve learned into meaningful steps toward strengthening their families and communities.
Join us on October 31 for Black Men’s Legacy Summit V.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Dr. Cornel West and an outstanding lineup of speakers committed to building stronger families, thriving communities, and lasting legacies.
Registration is open! Visit Eventbrite to reserve your spot for Black Men’s Legacy Summit V.