Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network (NAN) will bring together some of the country’s most influential voices for the 2026 NAN National Convention from April 8 to April 11 in New York City. This annual gathering convenes leaders in civil rights, politics, business, media, and culture for a national call to action.
The four-day convention will focus on critical issues such as voting rights, economic equity, and defending democratic freedoms. Through high-level panels, keynote speeches, and strategic sessions, NAN aims to mobilize Black America and its allies to safeguard progress and shape the next chapter of the civil rights movement.
Celebrating 35 years of activism
This year marks NAN’s 35th anniversary. Founded in 1991, the organization has evolved from a grassroots initiative into one of the nation’s foremost civil rights institutions. Over the past three and a half decades, NAN has combined community activism with national policy, ensuring that marginalized voices remain central to the fight for justice, accountability, and opportunity.
The 2026 convention will feature plenaries, workshops, and panels with political leaders, academics, clergy, and corporate executives. Key topics will include civil rights and voting strategies, economic empowerment solutions, and leadership tracks for women and youth activists.
A gathering of the nation’s most influential voices
NAN’s convention serves as a unique platform where high-ranking government officials, corporate executives, and international dignitaries meet the next generation of youth activists and grassroots organizers. With delegates from more than 140 NAN chapters nationwide, the event represents a diverse and powerful constituency from every region of the United States. Historically recognized as the country’s largest civil rights convening, the convention draws thousands of attendees and sets the national agenda for justice and equity each year.
Attendees will also hear from potential 2028 presidential contenders, New York Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, members of the Congressional Black Caucus, and leading cultural figures from Black America. The convention provides a rare opportunity to witness civil rights, political, and cultural leadership intersect in one influential forum.
Event details
When: Wednesday, April 8 – Saturday, April 11, 2026
Where: Sheraton New York Times Square, 811 7th Avenue (at West 53rd Street), New York, NY 10019
Media members can register for credentials to cover the event.
About National Action Network
Founded by Rev. Al Sharpton in 1991, NAN is a leading civil rights organization with chapters across the United States. Inspired by the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the organization works to promote a modern civil rights agenda, ensuring justice, decency, and equal opportunities for all people regardless of race, religion, nationality, or gender.
Source: National Action Network
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