Summit panels

Join Lawrence Lucas, President Emeritus of The USDA Coalition and Representative of the Justice for Black Farmers Group, as he rips the mask off the USDA's façade of equality. Delve into: - The USDA's dark history: How America's agricultural institution became a breeding ground for racial discrimination - Systemic racism by design: Why the USDA's structure ensures Black farmers remain second-class citizens - County Committees: Bastions of white privilege or engines of rural progress? - Compensation denied: How white opposition and illegal policies rob Black farmers of their due - The great divide: Stark disparities in USDA programs that keep Black farmers down - Beyond the fields: Sexual assault and the U.S. Forest Service's culture of silence Prepare to be outraged, enlightened, and mobilized. This isn't just history – it's happening now. Are you ready to dismantle "The Last Plantation"?

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Join us for a crucial discussion on the often-overlooked aspects of whistleblowing: resilience and recovery. This panel explores the intense personal journey whistleblowers face, from the initial shock of speaking out to navigating the aftermath and rebuilding their lives. Whistleblowing is not just an intellectual exercise - it's a profound, often traumatic experience that can upend careers, relationships, and one's sense of self. Our distinguished panelists will delve into two key factors that can determine a whistleblower's ability to prosper after such upheaval: 1. Resilience: What makes some individuals able to withstand the pressures and challenges of whistleblowing? 2. Recovery: How can whistleblowers heal and move forward after their lives have been disrupted? Featured Speakers: - Daniel Richard: International award-winning dog breeder-trainer and Executive Director of the National Heritage Center for Constitutional Studies. Daniel will draw parallels between resilience in military and competitive settings and the whistleblower experience. - Melisa Uchida: Yoga Master, Certified Hypnotherapist, and Grief Counselor. Founder of the Healthy Human Project, Melisa will discuss recovery as an intentional practice involving mind, body, and spirit. - Caroline Douglas: Forensic Mental Health Professional and former lawyer. Caroline will share insights from Dr. Karin Huffer's work on Legal Abuse Syndrome and offer additional perspectives on the mental health aspects of whistleblower recovery. The panel will explore practical strategies for cultivating resilience and fostering recovery, including: - Encouraging and reinforcing positive virtues and strengths - Recognizing and incorporating courage, leadership, and forgiveness - Practicing gratitude and mindful living Drawing on Father Richard Rohr's concept of "falling upward into the second half of life," this panel aims to provide whistleblowers and their supporters with valuable insights and tools for not just surviving, but thriving after speaking truth to power.

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We will recognize and celebrate the courageous whistleblowers who have made significant contributions to society by exposing wrongdoing, corruption, and abuse of power. Their actions, often taken at great personal risk, have led to important reforms and have helped to hold those in power accountable.

The National Whistleblower Appreciation Day symposium will be feature a Live Film Screening of The Greatest Piece of Investigative Journalism in 75 Years and subsequent Q&A with the filmmakers. More generally regarding Barbour's impressive career, there are very few other figures from the golden age of television and cinema who are able to bear witness to the transition of the media from its apex to the situation in which it finds itself today. Barbour was the nation’s first TV news film critic as KNBC’s Critic-at-Large. Also, he spent ten years as the film critic for Los Angeles Magazine. As the host of KNXT’s (later KCBS) morning show AM Los Angeles, which was followed by a stint as co-host of AM Chicago on the Windy City’s flagship station, WLS.

Delve into the shadowy world of CIA covert operations with an exceptional panel of whistleblowers, journalists, and experts who have dared to speak truth to power. This riveting discussion will expose hidden agendas, questionable tactics, and the moral dilemmas faced by those privy to classified information. Our distinguished panel includes: - John Kiriakou: Former CIA counterterrorism officer who blew the whistle on the agency's torture program, author of seven books on intelligence and national security. - Louis Wolf: Founding editor of the Covert Action Information Bulletin and witness to CIA operations in Laos during the 1960s. - Jeremy Kuzmarov: Investigative journalist, Managing Editor of CovertAction Magazine, and author of five books on U.S. foreign policy. - Gloria Guillo: On-the-ground investigative journalist covering U.S. foreign policy, sanctions, and international elections. Join us as these courageous individuals share their firsthand experiences and insights, shedding light on the complex intersection of national security, ethics, and public accountability. Discover the personal and professional costs of exposing government secrets and the ongoing impact of covert actions on global politics.

In the world of television, cinema, investigative reporting, storytelling, and comedy there is no greater a polymath than the multiple Emmy Award-winning John Barbour. Spanning some 75 years, Barbour’s career includes having hosted what many consider was television’s first reality show, Real People, which aired on NBC from 1979 to 1984. Instead of celebrities, the program featured regular folks having unusual jobs, talents, or hobbies. We are honored to discuss his impressive and storied career, including screening his most recent major work, a powerful and affectionate documentary about the recently deceased human rights attorney William F. Pepper, who devoted decades to documenting shocking revelations challenging conventional court findings and media narratives about the deaths of his close colleagues Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) and Robert F. Kennedy (RFK). Dr. Bernice King, CEO of the King Center in Atlanta and youngest daughter of MLK and Coretta Scott King, wrote a letter read at Pepper's Memorial Service in Harlem on April 27 describing Pepper as one of the nation's greatest attorneys, as illustrated by his unique courage and expertise in pursuing justice in the assassination of her father. Barbour's video interview, boldly entitled Greatest Piece of Investigative Journalism in 75 Years: Barbour & Osanic's Tribute to William F. Pepper, compiled with historically powerful photos and videos by Black Ops radio host Len Osanic, chronicles how Pepper became so convinced that convicted killers James Earl Ray and Sirhan Sirhan could not possibly have killed MLK and RFK, respectively, that Pepper ended up representing Ray and Sirhan.

This compelling panel sheds light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by dialysis patients, focusing on critical issues of patient rights, medical record accuracy, and the power dynamics within healthcare settings. Drawing from a powerful testimonial, we explore a case that exemplifies the broader systemic issues affecting this vulnerable population. Key topics include: 1. The impact of miscommunication and misunderstandings between medical staff and patients 2. The serious consequences of inaccurate medical records on patient care and treatment options 3. The importance of patient advocacy and the challenges of speaking up in medical settings 4. The need for clear, transparent communication protocols in hospitals, especially regarding mental health concerns 5. The unique physical and emotional challenges faced by long-term dialysis patients Our panel aims to spark a crucial dialogue on improving patient care, enhancing communication in medical settings, and empowering dialysis patients to advocate for their rights and well-being. By bringing these issues to light, we hope to inspire positive changes in healthcare practices and policies. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that gives voice to those who have been silenced and paves the way for a more compassionate, patient-centered approach to dialysis care.

This panel explores the critical role of community whistleblowing in improving mental health services and support systems. Inspired by the experiences of individuals like Ms. Regina Fleming, whose struggles with the District of Columbia's mental health system led to the founding of M.I. Mother's Keeper, we'll discuss how grassroots advocacy and whistleblowing can drive positive change. Panelists will share insights on: 1. Identifying systemic issues in mental health care delivery and management 2. Effective strategies for community-based whistleblowing and advocacy 3. Balancing patient privacy with the need for transparency in mental health services 4. Collaborating with existing organizations to amplify voices and create change 5. Empowering individuals with mental illness to advocate for themselves and others This session aims to inspire attendees to become active voices in their communities, working towards better quality of life for those living with mental illness. Join us to learn how community whistleblowing can contribute to improved mental health services, housing circumstances, and overall community relations.

We will introduce National Whistleblower Appreciation Day to American University SoC and present a virtual interview with international environmentalist and sustainable food advocate, Allan Savory, President of the Savory Institute adding a global perspective to the festival's discussions.

American Banner Books and Eagle View Books will host this special event, celebrating the power of the written word in advocating for truth and justice. The book launch will be accompanied by a Live Film Screening of If It Could Happen to Me, It Could Happen to You and subsequent Q&A with the filmmakers.

American Banner Books and Eagle View Books will host this special event, celebrating the power of the written word in advocating for truth and justice. The book launch will be accompanied by a Live Film Screening of If It Could Happen to Me, It Could Happen to You and subsequent Q&A with the filmmakers.

American Banner Books and Eagle View Books will host this special event, celebrating the power of the written word in advocating for truth and justice. The book launch will be accompanied by a Live Film Screening of If It Could Happen to Me, It Could Happen to You and subsequent Q&A with the filmmakers.

American Banner Books and Eagle View Books will host this special event, celebrating the power of the written word in advocating for truth and justice. The book launch will be accompanied by a Live Film Screening of If It Could Happen to Me, It Could Happen to You and subsequent Q&A with the filmmakers.

This explosive panel lifts the veil on a disturbing trend plaguing probate courts across the nation. We'll examine how unscrupulous attorneys, judges, and professional guardians exploit the very system designed to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Our expert panel will: - Reveal the tactics used to isolate elderly and disabled individuals from their families - Discuss the overmedicalization of wards to maintain control - Expose the systematic draining of estates through dubious legal and financial maneuvers - Highlight real cases that demonstrate the scope of this crisis - Propose reforms to safeguard against abuse and preserve the rights of those under guardianship Join us for this crucial conversation about protecting our loved ones and reforming a system that's failed those it swore to defend. This presentation is brought to you in memory of Marti Oakley and made possible by TS Radio Network and supported by NASGA in the United States and AASGAA out of Australia.

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is an independent federal agency tasked with safeguarding the merit system by protecting federal employees and applicants from prohibited personnel practices, especially reprisal for whistleblowing. Despite its crucial role, many whistleblowers find the OSC process complex and sometimes frustrating. This workshop aims to demystify the OSC and its functions, providing whistleblowers with practical knowledge for effective engagement. Attendees will gain insights into: - The history and mandate of the OSC - OSC's jurisdiction and the types of cases it handles - Setting realistic expectations when seeking OSC assistance - Maximizing the effectiveness of OSC interactions - Understanding OSC procedures, timelines, and limitations - Exploring the full spectrum of OSC support services, including investigation, mediation, and litigation - Insights into the OSC's dedicated COVID-19 whistleblower unit By providing a comprehensive overview of the OSC process, this panel aims to reduce frustration and enhance positive outcomes for whistleblowers. Participants will learn how to navigate the system more effectively, from initial disclosure to potential corrective action. Invited panelists include representatives from key OSC departments: - Special Counsel (TBA) - OSC Disclosure Unit (TBA) - Alternative Disputes Resolution Chief (TBA) These experts will share their perspectives on best practices for whistleblowers and answer questions about the OSC's role in protecting the federal workforce. Join us to empower yourself with knowledge and increase your chances of a successful outcome when working with the Office of Special Counsel.

Kick off the Whistleblower Summit & Film Festival with an exclusive gathering at the historic Morrison-Clark Inn & Restaurant. This intimate retreat, sponsored by Montgomery County Guardianship Advocates, sets the tone for a week of powerful dialogues and courageous narratives. Connect with fellow attendees and speakers in a welcoming atmosphere as we prepare to explore the critical role of whistleblowers in society.

This panel will explore critical legislative priorities for the whistleblower community in the upcoming year. With bipartisan support waning, we face a pivotal moment that could define whistleblower protections for years to come. Experts will discuss groundbreaking legislation aimed at modernizing U.S. whistleblower laws to align with global best practices. Key topics include: 1. Federal employee protections under the Whistleblower Protection Act 2. Rights for government contract employees in the Covid-19 WPA 3. Addressing law enforcement abuses through the Special Inspector General Act 4. Jury trial rights for NRC and DOE employees 5. Reforms to the VA's Office of Whistleblower Accountability and Protection 6. Equal rights for FBI whistleblowers 7. Intelligence community whistleblower protections 8. Closing loopholes in the Dodd-Frank Act 9. Establishing a whistleblower office at the Federal Trade Commission Join us to learn how these legislative initiatives could reshape whistleblower rights and how you can support these crucial reforms.

This hard-hitting panel delves into the systemic issues of whistleblower retaliation and racial discrimination within federal law enforcement agencies, with a focus on the U.S. Marshals Service. Drawing from Senator Charles Grassley's impassioned floor testimony and the ongoing EEOC case of Matthew Fogg, we'll explore: - The alarming pattern of reprisals against whistleblowers in the U.S. Marshals Service - The weaponization of internal investigations to target those who speak out - The intersection of whistleblower retaliation and racial discrimination in federal agencies - The challenges faced by class action complainants in pursuing justice through the EEOC - The role of Administrative Judges and potential conflicts of interest in these cases - The broader implications for civil rights and accountability in law enforcement Our expert panel will analyze: 1. The tactics used to silence truth-tellers, from dubious investigations to the removal of class agents 2. The struggle of long-term whistleblowers like Matthew Fogg, who have fought systemic racism for decades 3. The complexities of navigating both EEOC complaints and federal court filings 4. The ongoing need for Congressional oversight and intervention in these matters Join us for this eye-opening examination of power, corruption, and the brave individuals fighting to uphold justice within a system that often seems designed to silence them. We'll discuss the personal costs whistleblowers face and explore potential reforms to better protect those who risk everything to expose wrongdoing.

ACORN 8 proudly presents the opening plenary of the 13th Annual Whistleblowers Summit & Film Festival. This groundbreaking session will explore the critical intersection of whistleblowing, investigative journalism, and enterprise reporting in our rapidly evolving media landscape. Joining us will be our esteemed co-hosts: the Justice Integrity Project, the Savory Institute, FSTV, TS Network, and the Martha Mitchell House & Whistleblower Museum. We are also honored to welcome a special guest speaker, whose identity will be revealed at the event. This session sets the stage for a week of dynamic discussions, film screenings, and networking opportunities, all aimed at strengthening the vital role of whistleblowers and investigative journalists in upholding transparency and accountability in our society.