About us
We want the communityto address and solveproblems together.
Our Mission
THE CHARLESTON FORUM STRIVES TO BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER TO IDENTIFY AND SOLVE PROBLEMS OF RACE. WE GATHER WITH A COMMON PURPOSE AND WITH NO PRE-SET AGENDA.
We can’t change what we don’t talk about.
DeRay Mckesson, Civil Rights Activist
Born out of the tragedy at Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church, The Charleston Forum began in 2016 as a group of local political, business, educational and religious leaders who wanted to provide an outlet to discuss race across many different topics. Along with panels throughout the year, The Forum hosts its annual event each June as part of the Mother Emmanuel commemoration and has welcomed over 40 local and national speakers and more than 1,800 participants.
key outcomes
Who We Are
Seeking Unity
The goal of The Charleston Forum is to facilitate movement from our shared moment following the Mother Emanuel massacre. The Committee seeks to harness our community’s realization of the need for and power of unity and to leverage the nation’s identity with Charleston.
Creating Excitement
We recognize that we will not overcome racial barriers without open discussion to share what behaviors and institutions are perceived as problems by some. We therefore seek to create a forum that excites national interest in open discussion, promotes understanding of different views, and shares ideas for progress.
Recognizing Leaders
We strive for Charleston and South Carolina to be recognized as leaders in addressing racial issues and as a community that refuses to allow June 17, 2015 at Mother Emanuel to become just another historical marker.