In a nation facing heightened political polarization and challenges to civic trust, the role of engaged, informed, and empowered citizens has never been more critical. Against this backdrop, the Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA) is set to host its 47th Annual Tribute to Black Women Summit and Youth Empowerment Weekend, October 3–4, 2025, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. The summit seeks to inspire community members to not only navigate the current political climate but to lead, advocate, and effect meaningful change in their neighborhoods and beyond.

The two-day event will bring together community members, advocates, and leaders to promote personal growth, civic participation, and the celebration of Black excellence. This year’s theme, “The 92: Rest, Resist, Repeat,” encourages participants to strike a balance between self-care and sustained activism.

Symone D. Sanders Townsend will deliver the keynote address during the Tribute Luncheon on Saturday, October 4, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. The luncheon will honor local Black women for their contributions in education, science, politics, the arts, and other fields. Vendor booths and doors open at 10:30 a.m.

Sanders Townsend is a political strategist, commentator, and author who rose to national prominence as a senior advisor and chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris, and previously as national press secretary for Senator Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign. Known for her sharp political insight and dynamic media presence, she has served as an advocate for progressive policies and equity-focused initiatives. She is currently a co-anchor on MSNBC’s The Weekend and The Weeknight, having joined the network in 2022 to host her own show, Symone. Beyond her work in politics and television, Sanders Townsend has authored a memoir and remains a sought-after speaker on leadership, civic engagement, and the power of youth and diverse voices in shaping America’s future.

The summit begins Friday, October 3, with workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (doors open at 8:00 a.m.), offering attendees strategies for leadership and change-making in their communities. That afternoon, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., the Youth Empowerment Workshop — designed for Black girls ages 12 through college and presented in partnership with the CU Wellness Center — will focus on mental health, confidence, and advocacy skills.

Registration and award recipient nominations are now open, giving community members the opportunity to participate in the summit and recognize outstanding local Black women who have made significant contributions in their fields.

Nomination Categories Include:

Community Engagement

Education

Science & Medicine

Politics

Arts & Culture

Youth Leadership

Nomination Deadline: September 1st

While nonpartisan, the CBWPA event aims to equip attendees with the tools to engage in civic life, especially during an election cycle where follow-through from elected officials is under close scrutiny.

For more information, please visit CBWPA.org.

By CBWPA/DWN

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