Working While Black Expo

Connect with organizations with apprenticeship programs that provide real, quality, jobs upon completion.

Find out more about their apprenticeship programs, how to enter, and the jobs that are available after the program is completed. The participating organizations help ensure that Black workers have access to quality jobs with livable wages, and are committed to helping develop skilled trades people and supporting success through the end of the apprenticeships.

Meet thinkers, leaders, entertainers
Join workshops and discussion groups led by:

Cory McCray, Maryland State Senator
Carmen Berkeley, Civitas Public Affairs Group, radio host and disc jockey
Dr. Kristee Haggins, PhD, Safe Black Space, co-founder
Neneki Lee, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), director
Erica Smiley, Jobs with Justice, executive director
Phela Townsend, Rutgers University School of Management & Labor Relations, doctoral candidate
Nzingha Hooker- senior attorney, National Employment Law Project
Reena Doyle- Human Rights Consultant, California Teachers Association
Kwesi Chappin- Senior Political Director, Color of Change

Special Invited guests include:

Boots Riley- Rapper, producer, screenwriter, film director and activist
Bill Fletcher Jr.- Author and activist (Confirmed)
Kevin Wilson Jr.-  Academy Award nominated filmmaker (Confirmed)
Maurice Mitchell- National Director, Working Families Party (Confirmed)

The Black Collar Award is our annual recognition of an individual who works tirelessly to build power and equity for Black Workers.

From confronting racism and oppression as barriers to social change and healthy human relations; to removing workplace barriers through the pursuit of racial justice and inclusion, this award celebrates tireless dedication to acting in solidarity with Black workers everywhere in the quest for racial and economic justice.