Southern Vision Alliance welcomed over 60 folks from staff, our sponsored projects, and movement partners to Efland, NC for our 10th Annual All Members Gathering. This year’s theme, Rivers of Resistance, helped us reflect on the many people, organizations, and struggles that have shaped movements for justice across North Carolina and the South.
Over the course of the gathering, SVA Sponsored Projects, staff and board members had the chance to connect, learn, and build stronger relationships. In addition to strategy sessions, skills building, and story collection, we spent time enjoying activities like archery, zip lining, and canoeing. These shared experiences gave us space to have fun, strengthen trust, and deepen connections.
Together, we explored how our past has shaped the present and what it will take to build the future we want to see. Participants shared successes, discussed challenges, and exchanged ideas for growing power in their communities. A throughline for the weekend was a collective consideration of the question, “What Might Be Possible, between now and 2028 if we strengthen Unity and Solidarity across North Carolina and the South?”
On Saturday evening, we all boarded the Greenways biofuel party bus and enjoyed the music and art at Swamp Jam 2026, an event organized by SVA Sponsored Project, Grounded Possibilities!
After three days of learning, bonding, and strategizing, the gathering came to a close. Participants left with new relationships, fresh ideas, and renewed energy for the work ahead.
The theme, Rivers of Resistance, reminded us that all of our movements are connected through history, place, and people. Just as many streams come together to form a river, our individual efforts become stronger when we work together. By grounding ourselves in our history, we gained a deeper understanding of where we are today and a clearer vision for where we are headed.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped create a space for learning, reflection, and community!
