• by Sara Guaglione , August 5, 2020

The Root, a Black news and culture site owned by G/O Media, is hosting its first Root Institute conference virtually for the next few weeks, featuring more than 25 Black leaders in politics, film, activism, literature and music.

Presented by Target, the event serves as a platform to amplify the voices of Black change-makers at a pivotal time in history, and to discuss topics that affect Black Americans in 2020 and beyond.

“At this incredibly moving moment in the U.S., I’m proud to lead this first-annual gathering of some of the best and brightest minds in America,” stated Danielle Belton, editor in chief at The Root. 

“Given the socioeconomic climate, there has never been a more important time to step back and take a deep dive into these issues,” she added.

Originally intended to be a live, in-person event, The Root Institute went virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Root plans to host the event in person beginning in 2021, “to allow for an interactive discussion with panelists and attendees,” according to the publisher.

The Root Institute launched on August 4 and continues each Tuesday and Thursday through the month.

Guests will discuss a weekly theme affecting Black Americans, including: politics, entertainment and culture, health and wealth, and social impact. 

Discussions will feature leading figures, such as politician Stacey Abrams, musician Aloe Blacc, directors Ava DuVernay and Lee Daniels, as well as Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, and Alexis McGill Johnson, CEO of Planned Parenthood, among others.

All content from The Root Institute will live on a dedicated vertical on The Root’s site.

Tomorrow’s panel discussion includes cofounder of Higher Heights, Glynda Carr; executive director of the Advancement Project, Judith Browne Dianis; and president of Color of Change, Rashad Robinson.

Next week, the event will focus on entertainment and culture.

“Speaking with some of the foremost leaders and minds out of Hollywood, we will discuss how art can be used to educate, uplift, spread joy, entertain and engage around the issues that impact our communities,” reads the topic description online.