The NAACP Virginia State Conference, in collaboration with Virginia Housing, will host its 2026 Housing Justice Conference on Thursday, May 21, 2026, bringing together advocates, community leaders, policymakers, and partners from across the Commonwealth for a full‑day exploration of how housing instability shapes every aspect of community life. The conference will take place from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm at the Virginia Housing Conference Center, located at 4224 Cox Road, Glen Allen, VA.
This year’s theme, “The Intersection of Housing Instability: Community Health, Crime & Education,” underscores the urgent need to address how housing inequities reverberate across every major system in the Commonwealth. As highlighted in the conference materials, “when families lack stable housing, entire systems absorb the impact.” The event will convene advocates, community leaders, policymakers, and partners to explore solutions that advance the NAACP’s mission of political, educational, social, and economic equality.
Rev. Cozy Bailey, President of the NAACP Virginia State Conference, emphasized the importance of this moment:
“Housing is not just a policy issue — it is a justice issue. When families are forced into instability, their health suffers, their children’s education suffers, and their safety suffers. This conference is about bringing Virginia together to confront these truths and commit to real, lasting change.”
The Housing Justice Conference will offer attendees the opportunity to learn from experts, engage with NAACP leadership, and explore actionable solutions to strengthen communities across Virginia.
The day will feature a robust lineup of panels and presentations, including:
- Housing’s Impact on Criminal Justice
- Environmental Justice & Housing Conditions
- Housing Instability & Education
- Housing & Community Health
- Economic Justice & Housing Equity
- The Reality of Affordable Housing & Fair Housing Discussion
Speakers and moderators include leaders from across the housing, legal, education, environmental justice, and public health sectors. The agenda also includes a community open forum, providing space for residents and advocates to share lived experiences and priorities.
“Every community in Virginia is touched by housing instability, and every community has a role to play in the solution,” stated Tracey Hardney‑Scott, NAACP Virginia State Conference Housing Committee Chair. “This conference is designed to move us from conversation to coordinated action. When we strengthen housing, we strengthen the entire foundation of opportunity for our families.”
Registration is $25, and space is limited.
Registration is open and will close on Friday, May 8, 2026.
Participants may register at www.naacpva.org/events.
For more information, contact info@naacpva.org or follow @naacpvirginia on social media.