Courageous Conversations Conference
Advancing Justice, Healing, and Community Transformation
The Courageous Conversations Conference is the South Coast Health Equity Coalition's signature gathering focused on advancing equity, justice, healing, and community transformation through honest dialogue, shared learning, and meaningful connection.
Originally established as the South Coast Diversity Conference, the conference has grown into Courageous Conversations to reflect our commitment to creating spaces where people can engage across differences, deepen their understanding of one another, and work collectively toward healthier and more equitable communities.
For years, we've welcomed community members, advocates, educators, healthcare professionals, Tribal leaders, youth, public servants, and partners from across Oregon to learn from local and national speakers, participate in interactive workshops, and strengthen relationships that extend well beyond the conference itself.
Looking Ahead
Beginning in 2028, the Courageous Conversations Conference will transition to a biennial (every other year) event.
As part of this transition, the conference will not be held in 2027.
This intentional change allows us to invest more deeply in planning, strengthen community partnerships, thoughtfully develop programming, and bring dynamic local and national presenters to the South Coast. Most importantly, it creates space for us to remain responsive to the evolving needs of our communities while continuing to build an experience that reflects our shared commitment to justice, healing, and belonging.
Our Work Continues Year-Round
While the conference will now take place every other year, our commitment to community engagement remains ongoing.
We believe courageous conversations are not confined to a conference—they happen every day through organizing, relationship building, advocacy, cultural celebration, leadership development, and collective action.
Throughout the years between conferences, the South Coast Health Equity Coalition will continue to host:
Community workshops and educational trainings
Leadership development opportunities
Healing-centered gatherings
Advocacy and civic engagement events
Cultural celebrations and community convenings
Opportunities for dialogue, learning, and relationship building across the South Coast
These experiences help strengthen our communities while shaping the future of Courageous Conversations.
Join Us in 2028
We look forward to welcoming you back for the next Courageous Conversations Conference in 2028.
Conference dates, locations, keynote speakers, workshop proposals, sponsorship opportunities, and registration details will be announced as planning progresses.
Until then, we invite you to stay connected by participating in our year-round programs and events as we continue advancing justice, strengthening community, and building a South Coast where everyone has the opportunity to belong, lead, and thrive.
Together, we know that courageous conversations aren't just events—they're a practice that transforms communities.
