On Monday, June 16, 2025, over 250 UC Berkeley staff members gathered in Pauley Ballroom and across campus for the Equity in Action: Shaping Democratic Futures Summit, a day of reflection, learning, healing, and community-building. With the theme, "We are the ones we’ve been waiting for," — the final line of June Jordan’s 1980 poem Passion — the summit offered space to reimagine democracy through the lens of equity, justice, and inclusion.
Supported by a grant from the UC Office of the President and organized by the Division of Equity and Inclusion, People and Culture, and Communications and Public Affairs, the full-day event underscored Berkeley’s long-standing commitment to social justice and its evolving role in shaping democratic futures.
The day began with an opening presentation on the legacy of action titled “Love, Study, Struggle: Connecting the Dots” by Victoria Robinson, American Cultures program director. The morning sessions followed with a deep dive into strategy and resilience. The “Double Down, Pivot, Course Correct” session asked attendees to reflect on their current approaches to equity and inclusion amid increasing national opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.
“The day was designed to be a space of support, love, and joy, the bedrocks of why we do the work we do here at Berkeley,” shared Dr. Amber Johnson, Assistant Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff for the Division of Equity and Inclusion. “Despite what those in opposition to access and equitable engagement may call our work, we are committed to increasing access and belonging for all of our students, staff, and faculty. That motivation shined bright throughout the entire day.”
In the afternoon, participants attended one of ten breakout sessions across two blocks. Topics ranged from inclusive pedagogy and narrative-based fundraising, to psychological safety, cybersecurity, and healing-centered practices like Reiki and sound healing.
The summit concluded with a dynamic panel titled “Shaping Democratic Futures: Democracy and DEI” that brought together thought leaders who explored the critical intersections between inclusion, civic engagement, and justice.
Attendees then gathered in the Alumni House for a joyful networking reception, featuring music by DJ David Maldonado, a founding member of Berkeley Underground Scholars and PhD candidate.
Participants reflected on the day, one stating that: "It was very clear how much care, thought, and intention was behind this - from the conception, the BEAUTIFUL website, messaging, inspirational face on the flyer, the layout, session options, to the celebration wrapping everything up. Thank you so much for the inclusion and love poured all over us yesterday. I am looking forward to seeing what gets cooked up next, and how we can strengthen our bonds and interdependence in community."
We offer deep gratitude to all participants, presenters, and sponsors who made this day possible and to the Ohlone people, on whose unceded ancestral lands UC Berkeley stands.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Equity in Action Summit
The 2025 Equity in Action Summit was both a moment of collective reflection and a call to action. As we look ahead to the 2026 Equity in Action Summit: Thriving as a Collective Practice, Freedom as an Organizing Principle, we carry forward the relationships, insights, and renewed sense of purpose sparked by this gathering. Whether advancing justice through formal leadership roles or everyday acts of care and advocacy, this work belongs to all of us.
Visit the Equity in Action webpage for up to date information about the 2026 Summit.