Tennessee State Representative Justin J. Pearson delivered the keynote address at the 2026 Civil Rights Symposium Banquet, hosted by the W. Harold Flowers Law Society, Inc. and the Women’s Council on African American Affairs, Inc. Under the theme “Here We Go Again! Fighting for Our Votes, Our Rights, Our Future,” Pearson provocatively asks the audience, “Are We Human?” to challenge listeners to think about humanity, dignity, equality, and why those things are still being debated and defended after all this time. The evening brought together legal professionals, community leaders, and advocates for a timely conversation about civil rights, civic engagement, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Catch a moment from Representative Pearson’s keynote address.

Nationally recognized journalist and political commentator Roland S. Martin took the stage as keynote speaker at the Arkansas Black Mayors Association’s “Bridges & Bold Moves” Leadership Gala, delivering his signature energy and unapologetic perspective on leadership, community, and progress.