Approximately 80 community members gathered at Seton Hall University’s Bethany Hall for this year’s Conversations on Race program, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring question: Where do we go from here—and why does it matter now? Attendees came not only from South Orange and Maplewood, but also from neighboring communities, reflecting the broad interest and urgency surrounding this year’s conversation.

The evening featured a powerful panel discussion examining the relationship between race, history, democracy, and civic action. Educator Tariq Raheem spoke about the importance of understanding the history of segregation and the continuing challenges of building equitable and integrated educational spaces. Jean-Pierre Brutus of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice addressed current threats to civil rights and democracy, including ongoing efforts to weaken voting rights protections. Professor Robert Pallitto of Seton Hall University focused on practical pathways forward, emphasizing voting, protest, and the courts as important tools for civic engagement and resistance.

Following the panel, attendees participated in facilitated table discussions that were thoughtful, energetic, and deeply engaged. Conversations continued well beyond the close of the event as participants remained to reflect, connect, and exchange ideas.

Each attendee received a take-home resource guide, Turning Reflection into Action, which offers ways individuals can stay engaged through advocacy, civic participation, community dialogue, and ongoing learning.

The Community Coalition on Race extends deep gratitude to moderator Caroline Smith; panelists Jean-Pierre Brutus, Robert Pallitto, and Tariq Raheem; and the Conversations on Race planning committee led by Mikki Murphy and including Lori Brown, Norm Francis, Rev. Dr. Forrest Pritchett, Barbara Velazquez, Robert A. Marchman, and Caroline Smith.

We also thank Seton Hall University for generously hosting the event at Bethany Hall.