HOW WE SHOW UP MATTERS.

2026 | KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Dr. Yaribel Mercedes 
Mom. Educator. Racial Equity Warrior. Activist. Critical Thinker. Consultant. Writer. Author. Race-Conscious. Abolitionist. ProBlackEverything. EdD ✊🏾

Advisory Board Member: Justice for Black Girls

Dr. Mercedes is a scholar, practitioner and advocate whose work centers racial justice, education and the experiences of Black girls and women. Her research explores race and racism, critically race-conscious leadership, and (re)membering as a practice and place for healing — a particularly powerful connection to this year’s State of Our Girls conversation about what we carry, what we heal, and how that shapes the way we show up for our girls.

She earned her doctorate in Organization and Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University, and received a 2025 AERA Outstanding Dissertation Award for her research on critically race-conscious and responsive leadership as a site of resistance.

LinkedIn | Instagram

MODERATOR

Cass Cruz Empowerment Coach, Change Agent & Equity Warrior

Cass helps people reconnect with their innate power by challenging limiting beliefs, trusting their inner knowing, and building confidence. As an empowerment coach and equity advocate, she creates space for people to recognize the power they already hold — and carry it into every part of their lives.

FACILITATOR

Kathy Lebrón Liberation Architect, Weaver of Belonging & Storyteller

Kathy is the founder of The Radical Maestra, where she equips young people, caregivers and educators with practical tools for healing and liberation. Through culturally sustaining practices, healing circles and arts-based experiences, she builds bridges between home, community and learning to create spaces rooted in belonging, joy and collective healing.

Event Itinerary

09:45-10:15 a.m.Breakfast & Registration

10:15-10:25 a.m.Opening Remarks

10:25-10:50 a.m.Keynote Address

10:50-11:35 a.m.Panel Discussion

11:35-12:35 p.m.Worshop

12:35-01:00 p.m.Closing Remarks

Register

This is a free event, but space is limited — and every seat matters. 

Please only register if you truly plan to attend. In sisterhood, we show up for each other — and that means not taking a spot that someone else could have filled.



Please tell us the role that best describes your connection to this work:

  • I am a parent or guardian supporting a Black or Brown girl.

  • I am a community member caring about the Black and Brown girls in my life.

  • I am a teacher or youth worker empowering Black and Brown girls.

  • I am a Black or Brown girl ready to learn, lead, and grow in community.

Your Information:

This event is free to attend, but if you’re inspired to support the work of Love Your Magic, your donation — of any amount — is deeply appreciated.

Suggested Amounts
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