The Students of Color of Rackham (SCOR) are excited to welcome you to the 2026 Social Justice Symposium: “Sankofa: Honoring the Past to Strengthen Future Democracy.” This event seeks to explore a central question: How can university communities draw upon their histories of activism, advocacy, and democratic participation to build a more equitable and inclusive future?Our symposium serves as both a commemoration and a call to action—celebrating the Rackham Graduate School’s 150th anniversary while honoring SCOR’s origins in the Black Action Movement (BAM) of the 1970s. Through a combination of panel discussions, flash talks by faculty-student pairs, and interactive workshops, the event will create a space for students, faculty, alumni, and community members to reflect on how movements for racial and social justice have shaped higher education and to envision new strategies for democratic engagement today!Each year, SCOR is proud to host an annual social justice symposium. This event is a part of SCOR’s legacy and a testament to our commitment of fostering dialogue and awareness surrounding the academic, social, and cultural journeys of graduate students of color at the University of Michigan. While the symposium is thoughtfully designed with the needs and experiences of graduate students in focus, we extend invitations to both undergraduate students and faculty, recognizing that our experiences are not only unique to us. We understand it is important to garner a supportive community. We seek support from faculty who have navigated similar paths and from other students who resonate with the symposium themes. This is also an opportune time to connect with others who are contemplating their next steps after undergraduate or masters studies. Aligned with our mission, SCOR welcomes everyone, irrespective of identities, religion, culture or abilities to participate in the symposium, showcasing the rich diversity and wealth of scholarly talent that Michigan graduate students have to offer. In pursuit of our objectives, this year's symposium revolves around the theme "Express Yourself—a vibrant celebration of self-expression." Our aim is to cultivate a safe and encouraging space for students to explore creative outlets and illuminate how their multifaceted experiences shape their research, hobbies, and other interests in the face of challenging realities.