Selma, AL — The Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation (SCNTR) is proud to announce that its Executive Director, Atty. Ainka Jackson, has been selected to take the stage at the Obama Foundation’s 2024 Democracy Forum on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Chicago. Atty. Jackson will join President Barack Obama, along with Manu Meel and Nika Kovac, for a pivotal conversation on hope, pluralism, and fostering dialogue in an increasingly polarized world.
The Democracy Forum, hosted by the Obama Foundation, is an annual event that brings together changemakers, experts, and emerging leaders to explore critical issues facing democracies today. This year’s Forum will center on the power of pluralism in strengthening democracy and will feature contributions from leaders across various sectors, including young lawmakers, activists, and community builders.
The discussion, moderated by President Obama, will focus on the role of pluralism in addressing divisions, fostering collaboration, and creating pathways for collective progress. The session will highlight how leaders like Jackson are leveraging community-driven approaches to strengthen democracy through hope and understanding.
“It’s an honor to represent Selma and the work we are doing at the SCNTR on such a prominent stage,” said Jackson. “Pluralism is not just a concept—it’s a practice. It’s about how we learn to listen, to collaborate, and to build together, especially in the face of difference.”
Atty. Jackson’s work at the SCNTR reflects the themes of this year’s Forum. Under her leadership, the Center has championed programs like the Beloved Community Block Clubs and the Violence Intervention Program, which promote nonviolence, strengthen neighborhood connections, and address systemic inequities that divide communities. Additionally, she created Chat and Chews as an intimate space to have courageous and necessary conversations. They are typically held on the fourth Thursday of each month. Her appearance at the Forum will bring national attention to the important work being done in Selma and the lessons it offers to communities worldwide.
About the Democracy Forum
The Democracy Forum will take place at the Marriott Marquis in Chicago and will include:
Lightning Talks: A morning session of short talks on pluralism by experts and thought leaders.
Panel Discussions: A bipartisan conversation with Kansas representatives Brandon Woodard (D) and Tory Marie Blew (R) on the importance of respect and engagement in today’s political climate.
Workshops and Networking: Attendees will participate in hands-on workshops to learn strategies for fostering productive dialogue and will connect with hundreds of emerging leaders from Obama Foundation programs, including Scholars, Leaders, and My Brother’s Keeper network members.
President Obama’s Remarks: The former President will discuss how pluralism strengthens democracy, followed by the conversation with Jackson, Meel, and Kovac.
This year’s Forum is a preview of the kinds of programming that will be offered at the Obama Presidential Center, set to open in 2026 on Chicago’s South Side.
Join the Conversation
The Democracy Forum will be livestreamed on December 5, 2024, beginning at 11:50 AM CT. Viewers can tune in for free on the Obama Foundation’s website, social media platforms, and YouTube channel. For updates and livestream details, visit Obama.org/2024-democracy-forum.
The SCNTR encourages Selma residents and supporters to follow along with the conversation using the hashtag #DemocracyForum and engage with the Obama Foundation’s social media accounts (@ObamaFoundation).
About Atty. Ainka Jackson
Atty. Ainka Jackson serves as the Executive Director of the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation. A dedicated advocate for justice and community healing, Jackson has spearheaded numerous initiatives addressing violence, systemic inequities, and community development in Selma. Her work exemplifies the Center’s mission to foster love, justice, and the Beloved Community by addressing the root causes of violence and division.
About SCNTR
Founded in 2015, the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation is committed to reducing violence in all its forms and promoting justice and equity through education, advocacy, and community engagement. By embracing principles of nonviolence, the Center works to transform communities and build a more equitable and peaceful world.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation
Phone: 334-526-0767
Email: dglover@selmacntr.org