Union members, civil rights activists, and community leaders from across the nation will come together January 15–18, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland, for the AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference—a powerful gathering that celebrates Dr. King’s legacy while strengthening the partnership between the labor and civil rights movements.
The theme for this year’s conference, “Honoring Our History—Fighting for Our Future,” reflects both the movement’s deep roots and its unwavering commitment to shaping a just and equitable future for all workers.
For generations, the civil rights and labor movements have stood side by side to secure dignity, opportunity, and fairness for working people. That partnership is more vital than ever as our democracy faces grave threats. Across the country, extremist politicians, far-right judges, and corrupt corporate interests are aligning to erode hard-won rights—attacking the freedom to vote and the right to organize and collectively bargain for a voice on the job.
“Our democracy is in a state of emergency,” AFL-CIO leaders warned. “The labor movement has always been a force for progress, and we will continue that legacy by standing in our power and fighting back against these attacks.”
The conference will build on recent victories and chart a path forward in the ongoing fight for economic and racial justice—both within the labor movement and throughout society. Participants will engage in strategy sessions, workshops, and discussions led by national experts on the most pressing issues facing working people.
Sessions will focus on solutions and best practices to help unions and activists organize, mobilize, and lead with impact. Attendees will also gain cutting-edge tools and knowledge to effect change in their workplaces and communities.
By stepping into the new year with unity and purpose, working people will make it clear that they—not corporate interests—will determine the direction of this country.
Together, labor and civil rights advocates will continue Dr. King’s fight to build an economy and a society that work for everyone, where all workers—no matter who they are—can live and work with dignity and respect.
