Now that we've caught our breath from the inaugural Just Opportunity Summit two weeks ago, I wanted to say that it was a success because of you! We had more than 300 registrants from as far as San Francisco, Denver and Pittsburgh come together to engage in a historical moment where the civic, community and nonprofit communities worked for one purpose - economic prosperity for all people in metropolitan Atlanta and the America South.

I can't begin to express my gratitude towards our staff, supporters, speakers and sponsors who stepped up to endure the stress, late nights and endless conversations, which resulted in an event that I believe will set the tone for the economic inclusion agenda in our region moving forward.

I will contine to beat this drum until it is heard loud and clear throughout the South - equity is the superior growth model! If it's not for all of us, it's not for any of us!

Please stay tuned as we share the outcomes of the Just Opportunity Summit and steps that we will take to ensure shared prosperity for all throughout metropolitan Atlanta and the American South. What are you commited to do after the summit? Are you going to generate two conversations about economic disparities using what  you learned at the summit, support policies and policy makers that are advancing a racial equity agenda, stand up for everyone to be counted in the 2020 Census, support the Men and Boys of Color Initiative, or attend the open Just Opportunity Circle meeting in Fall 2019?

Please feel free to share your feedback and tell us what you’re committed to, so we can keep up the momentum and produce a better Just Opportunity Summit in 2021!

I am truly humbled for your support and energized by your love for your neighbors. Again, thank you!


Nathaniel Smith
Founder and Chief Equity Officer
Partnership for Southern Equity