Chaffey College Hosts Black and Brown Minds Conference
The event brought students together for workshops focused on community empowerment and civic leadership.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in African-American
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Chaffey College recently hosted the Black and Brown Minds & Mattering Conference, gathering approximately 450 attendees. The event provided students from across the Inland Empire with workshops on leadership, financial literacy, and social history.
Why it matters
The conference serves as a dedicated platform to support and uplift communities of color through education and community engagement. By connecting students with diverse experts, the event aims to foster academic and personal resilience.
Approximately 450 people attended the event at Chaffey College. The conference curriculum featured workshops on subjects ranging from financial literacy to the history of the Black Panther Party.
The players
Star Rivera-Lacey
She served as a keynote speaker at the conference and is an influential voice in educational leadership.
Nikkolas Smith
He is an artist and author known for his work on the movie Sinners and the Legacy Tower for the Downtown Disney District.
Chaffey College
This is a public community college located in Rancho Cucamonga that serves students throughout the Inland Empire region.
The details
Attendees engaged in specialized sessions covering broadcast media, civic engagement, and leadership development. Keynote speakers Star Rivera-Lacey and Nikkolas Smith led presentations designed to inspire students regarding their future roles in society.
Timeline
The Black and Brown Minds & Mattering Conference took place on October 23, 2026.
Culture Shift
The conference reflects a growing focus on inclusive representation that challenges the narrative surrounding the American Library Association's banned book lists. By elevating speakers like Nikkolas Smith, the event bridges the gap between academic discourse and contemporary cultural debates.
Students from the Inland Empire gained practical insights into leadership and civic participation that can inform their future career paths. The collaborative environment encourages attendees to integrate these lessons into their local community involvement and personal development.
The takeaway
Empowering students through education and dialogue is a vital tool for building stronger, more resilient communities. Engaging with diverse perspectives helps prepare the next generation to lead in their respective fields.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural events on our African-American section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Inland Valley News " Inland Valley News.
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