The annual Social Justice Summit invites students to explore how they can use social media and technology to drive campaigns and raise awareness about critical issues. Hosted by the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement, this year’s summit, held March 17-20, will focus on digital advocacy, providing students with the knowledge and resources to use accessible digital tools for social justice work.

Attendees of the summit, titled “From Hashtags to Action: Turning Online Momentum into Real-World Impact,” will leave feeling inspired and empowered with the tools and strategies needed to create meaningful change both online and in their communities.

Concurrent breakout sessions, taking place March 17-19, will feature dynamic presentations, interactive group activities and facilitated discussions. These sessions will explore a range of important topics, including the unique challenges justice-impacted students face in accessing technology, the strategies behind legislative actions, and how both individual and collective voices can drive effective advocacy.

Building on the theme of advocacy, another breakout session will bring together CSUSB faculty, students and community members for an engaging discussion with local media professionals. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with publishers, broadcasters and journalists who use traditional and digital media to produce solutions-oriented journalism that empowers and enlightens local communities.

New this year, the breakout sessions will be offered both online and in-person at the San Bernardino campus, providing more opportunities for students to participate. In addition, Palm Desert Campus students can join the sessions online or gather in the Oliphant Auditorium, where the Zoom broadcast will be streamed for in-person viewing.

Imani Barbarin, a disability rights and inclusion activist with an influential social media presence, will give the keynote address virtually on March 20. Barbarin uses her platforms to engage the disability community and has created numerous trending hashtags that amplify their voices, especially those at the intersection of race and disability. Known for her activism, Barbarin will speak about how social media can be a catalyst for change, highlighting the importance of accessibility, inclusivity and the power of digital advocacy.

Students at the San Bernardino and Palm Desert campuses can attend a live watch party of the keynote address while enjoying a free lunch. Throughout the week, the Social Justice Summit will also feature snacks and giveaways, including free tote bags, t-shirts and hydro flasks.

The Social Justice Summit dates and locations:

San Bernardino campus

  • March 17-18: SMSU South Fourplex, noon-1 p.m.
  • March 19: SMSU North, 3rd floor, noon-1 p.m.
  • March 20: SMSU South Theater, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Palm Desert Campus

  • March 17 and March 19: Oliphant Auditorium, noon-1 p.m.
  • March 18: Oliphant Auditorium, noon-1 p.m.
  • March 20: Oliphant Auditorium, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

The event is open to all currently enrolled CSUSB students and their guests. Each guest must be pre-registered by the student via RSVP and be present with the student at check-in. RSVP at Coyote Connection.

The Social Justice Summit is a unique opportunity for students to learn how to translate online activism into real-world impact. With both virtual and in-person sessions, the event offers flexible ways to engage and learn from thought leaders in the field. From learning key strategies to hearing from inspiring speakers, attendees will leave the event ready to take action.

For questions and accommodations, email the Office of Student Leadership and Engagement at osleinfo@csusb.edu. Please note that accommodations should be requested at least 24 hours in advance.