CLE Certificates now available.  If you’ve already purchased your ticket to the conference, click here to purchase the CLE add-on.

Join the National Association for Public Defense (NAPD) for the sixth annual Racial Justice Conference (“RJC”), as we return to Montgomery, Alabama, one of the historic homes of the Civil Rights Movement. NAPD is proud to host this immersive and transformative conference, designed to enhance your understanding of racial justice and your ability to fight for it in your work as a public defense professional.

Featuring highly respected speakers from across the nation, RJC is an unparalleled opportunity to explore three key areas that impact our pursuit of justice for clients of color.

First, we will examine how we, as individuals, approach race and how we can work to overcome our own biases and preconceptions.

Second, we will explore how public defender offices address race in their workplaces, and how we can create policies and practices that promote racial equity and fairness.

Finally, we will delve into effective strategies for challenging racial bias and discrimination wherever we encounter it.

Through a range of educational opportunities, you will gain the tools and insights needed to be a more effective advocate for racial justice in your work as a public defense professional. You will also have opportunities to connect with colleagues from across the country who share your commitment to advancing the cause of justice for all.

Click here to view the Racial Justice Conference schedule!

RJC Includes Visits to the Equal Justice Initiative’s Sites

RJC also includes visits to the Equal Justice Initiative’s The Legacy Museum, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the new Freedom Monument Sculpture Park.

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New Exclusive Evening Keynote & Awards Event Available: Rooted to Rise Above

Don’t miss this exclusive event featuring Bryan Stevenson as the Keynote Speaker.

This year, we are offering a limited premium registration that includes access to an exclusive evening keynote and awards event. Rooted to Rise Above is an evening ceremony that honors and uplifts the practice of holistic public defense, recognizing individuals and teams who exemplify client-centered, comprehensive advocacy.

Space is ultra-limited for this event. Secure your premium registration NOW!

We are  SO excited for this! You do not want to miss this! 

Need to purchase a ticket to just for the Keynote Address & Awards Ceremony?  Want to upgrade your standard registration to a premium ticket? Grab your ticket here or email us.

Be sure to review NAPD’s Event Policies to learn more about our attendance and cancellation policies.

BOOK YOUR HOTEL ROOM WITH OUR ROOM BLOCK

Our room block is at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center.

Click here to book your room.

We have a limited number of rooms. Please book early to ensure you get the best rate.

The last day to book using our room block is Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

CONVINCE YOUR BOSS

Need some help convincing your boss? Review and use our Convince Your Boss Resources. There, we provide a sample letter and other information to assist you in convincing your office to approve your RJC attendance.

SPONSORSHIP & DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

Interested in being a Sponsor? Contact us to discuss sponsorship opportunities.

Would you like to donate to our RJC scholarships? Donate to support scholarships for this conference here. Leave a comment, “RJC,” to apply it to this conference.

This years R.E.A.L. scholarship winners are here: R.E.A.L. Scholarship winners

MORE QUESTIONS

We will be happy to assist you! Contact us here with your inquiry.

* Ticket availability may be further restricted based on overall conference registration. Both the standalone and upgrade ticket options may expire at any time as standalone tickets or upgrading depends on ticket availability.