Voices That Move Us

Leonard Burton is a nationally recognized leader and advocate whose work focuses on advancing equity, dignity, and opportunity for children, families, and communities. As President and CEO of the Center for the Study of Social Policy, Burton brings decades of experience in systems change grounded in justice, compassion, and belonging.

In Building Beloved Community, Leonard Burton calls us to imagine—and commit to—a society rooted in dignity, equity, and shared humanity. Drawing from his personal journey and decades of work alongside children and families, Burton reflects on what it truly takes to build the “Beloved Community,” including the commitment, purpose, and shared responsibility required to create a world free from harm, poverty, hate, and hunger.

Burton emphasizes a powerful truth: community enriches us. When we show up for one another, we become more grounded, more connected, and more capable of shaping meaningful change together.

With clarity and conviction, he challenges attendees to see themselves as active participants in building beloved community within their own spheres of influence—leaving inspired, accountable, and ready to translate empathy into action.

Click here to check out more of Leonard's work with CSSP.

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