Community Building
Meetups are monthly convenings that focus on amplifying the stories and work of Black, Indigenous, Latino/x/e, Southeast Asians, and People of Color.
Our space centers our people and provides opportunities to make meaningful connections, build relationships, and share knowledge.
Our Meetups
Our Impact
Community Building
ei recognizes the power of connection and the importance of building a strong, supportive community for educators. Our meetups provide an intentional space for networking, professional development, and inspiration, particularly for those from historically underrepresented communities in education.
1,900
1,900 educators, leaders & community members connected at our monthly meetups
67% of attendees at each meetup are joining us for the first time
101
101 meetup speakers shared their stories at our events
Upcoming Meetups
Upcoming Meetups
November Meetup
Pull Up a Chair: Ten Years, One Table
It started small. Look what grew.
In November 2016, a few Black and Brown educators pulled up chairs. Some were still in classrooms. Some had left schools but still wanted to teach. All of them were looking for a space where they could talk honestly about the education system and, more importantly, figure out how to change it.
That small gathering became the heart of Equity Institute.
Ten years and 53 meetups later, more than 2,000 educators, school leaders, community leaders, and aspiring teachers have pulled up a chair. Together we've shared stories, supported one another through hard seasons, helped keep educators in the field, and built a community where people feel seen and valued.
Now we're celebrating ten years at the table, and we want you there.
What to Expect
This is not a sit-down program. It's a relaxed evening to walk around, eat, drink, reconnect, and meet new people.
Food and drinks to enjoy while you mingle
A walk through our story, from the first gathering in 2016 to today
A short toast with our founders and a few voices from the community
Story Corner, where you can pull up a chair and share what this community has meant to you
Time to connect with people who care about education as much as you do
Who Should Come
There's a seat for everyone who cares about the future of education:
Classroom teachers and teacher assistants
School and district leaders
Community leaders and partners
Aspiring educators and students
Longtime meetup family, past speakers, and anyone joining us for the first time
Whether you were at the very first meetup or you're just finding us, come as you are and pull up a chair.
Evening at a glance
5:30 PM: Arrive, mingle, and sign the Signature Chair
6:30 PM: Toast and stories (about 15 minutes)
6:45 to 8:30 PM: Food, drinks, Story Corner, and connection
Ten years by the numbers
53 meetups since 2016
More than 2,000 people have pulled up a chair
138 speaker spots for educators and leaders sharing their stories
96% of attendees surveyed said our meetups gave them a sense of community
What People Are Saying