In this powerful talk, Deborah Archer examines the role of transportation infrastructure in shaping racial and economic inequality in America. She will talk about the themes in her new book Dividing Lines and explore how highways, public transit, and urban planning decisions have been used to divide communities, reinforce segregation, and limit economic mobility for marginalized groups. Beyond transportation, she delves into the broader legal, political, and economic systems that sustain racial and economic disparities, from housing and education policies to criminal justice and voting rights. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of how structural inequality is built into the very design of our cities and institutions—and what it will take to create a more just and equitable society.

According to Deborah Archer, when most people think of racism they think about a person, or groups of people, who dislike people of a different race and then act on that dislike. Or, increasingly, they talk about implicit bias where someone is acting on unconscious feelings. Certainly, it is important to understand how individual and implicit bias work. But thinking of racism only in those terms misunderstands the true nature, power, and persistence of racism.  This understanding of racism overlooks the centuries-long impact of race-based laws, policies, and practices that have caused and perpetuate racial inequality. In this eye-opening talk, Deborah Archer provides a deeper understanding of race in America — focusing on systemic racism in a variety of contexts, including housing, the criminal legal system, health care, education, and infrastructure.

In this compelling talk, Deborah Archer examines the foundational principles that uphold democracy and the critical role of the rule of law in ensuring justice, equality, and civic participation. She explores the legal and institutional safeguards that Americans have built over generations to protect democratic governance; as well as the historic and emerging threats to these structures, including political disenfranchisement, attacks on judicial independence, undermining the press, and the erosion of civil rights. Through an analysis of historical and contemporary issues, she highlights the intersection of law, policy, and democratic resilience. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of the legal and institutional mechanisms essential to a functioning democracy and what it will take to safeguard them.

In this inspiring talk, Deborah Archer explores the vital role of women in leadership across law, politics, and society. She examines the barriers that have historically limited women’s leadership opportunities, as well as the legal and institutional frameworks that have shaped their access to power. Through an analysis of gender, leadership, and systemic inequality, she highlights the progress made and the ongoing challenges women face in breaking through structural and cultural barriers. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of the impact of women’s leadership on democracy, justice, and social change—and the strategies needed to continue advancing gender equity in leadership.

In this insightful talk, Deborah Archer explores the demands of leadership in moments of crisis and transformation. She examines the qualities and strategies that enable leaders to navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and drive meaningful change in the face of social, political, and institutional challenges. Through an analysis of historical and contemporary leadership during turbulent times, she highlights the intersection of leadership, justice, and democracy. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of how ethical, courageous, and adaptive leadership can sustain institutions, strengthen communities, and advance equity in times of uncertainty.