WDN Connect 2023: Rise & Renew
November 9-12, 2023
Omni Charlotte Hotel, North Carolina
Together we have made significant impacts in our collective fight for justice — and we’re not done yet. At WDN Connect 2023, we’re bringing hopeful hearts to Charlotte, North Carolina, to renew our commitment to the work ahead.
Charlotte embraces its rich, complex history while also boasting a fresh vision for the future. This echoes where WDN is in our evolution, with this fall’s gathering focusing on a new strategic plan and a powerful shared vision that is rooted in justice for all. As we enter into our next chapter, we’re rising to the challenges ahead — and we’re doing so together. Individually, each of us can make an impact; but together, our community can move mountains.
Join us as we step into a season of transformation and possibility.
Register now and take advantage of our $300 earlybird discount. Earlybird pricing ends September 30.


WDN Connect 2023 begins with an evening reception on Thursday, November 9, and runs through breakfast on Sunday, November 12. We’re excited to host a special happy hour to welcome new and prospective members at 4 pm on Thursday. In addition, we’re planning:
- Milestone moments: The unveiling of our new strategic plan
- Panel discussions: Inspiring ways to think bigger
- Insights from the field: Hear from our grantee partners and movement leaders
- Breakouts: Small group spaces to learn and build skills
- Community activities: Opportunities to network and deepen connections with fellow participants
- Unique experiences: A special evening event with elected leaders and local partners at Charlotte’s renowned Harvey Gantt Center, hosted by WDN Action
WDN Connect will take place in person, but several main-stage programs will be live-streamed and recorded via our app. A virtual-only ticket will be available for sale in October.














Register now and take advantage of our $300 earlybird discount. Earlybird pricing ends September 30.

We’ll share updates on our full agenda in the coming weeks, but you can view our overview schedule below to get an idea of what each day will look like. A conference app for registered participants will be available to download in late October.
Thursday
4:00 pm: Mix & Mingle for new and prospective members
4:00 pm: Registration opens
5:00-6:30 pm: Happy Hour
6:30-8:30 pm: Opening Night Dinner/Program
Friday & Saturday
7:00-8:00 am: Yoga
7:30-9:00 am: Breakfast & Morning Meetups
9:00 am-12:00 pm: Morning Sessions
12:00-1:30 pm: Lunch
1:30-4:30 pm: Afternoon Workshops
6:00-10:00 pm: Closing dinner & Celebration
Sunday
7:30-9:30 am: Breakfast & Morning Meetups
9:30 am: Goodbyes & Travel Home
SPECIAL EVENT SPOTLIGHT
On Friday evening, we’re organizing a special evening event with elected leaders and local partners at Charlotte’s renowned Harvey Gantt Center, hosted by WDN Action.

Register now and take advantage of our $300 earlybird discount. Earlybird pricing ends September 30.

Why Charlotte?
Each year, WDN Connect is hosted in a location that offers our network a chance to connect with local communities and leaders. We have long-standing relationships in North Carolina and are proud to be on the ground in support of the incredible organizing efforts in the state.
How do I book my stay at the Omni Charlotte?
Please reserve your room at the Omni Charlotte Hotel via this booking link. Standard room rates are $229, plus applicable taxes. If you have a question about room reservations, reach out to Lindsay Crawford at [email protected].
Will there be a virtual option?
WDN Connect will take place in person, but main-stage sessions will be live-streamed and recorded via our app. A virtual-only ticket will be available for sale in October.
What are your COVID guidelines and precautions?
The health and safety of our community remain of utmost priority. We require all conference attendees who are eligible to be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations and to have had at least 1 booster in accordance with CDC guidance, except in the case of religious or medical exemption. Click here to read more about our health and safety guidelines.
What does my conference fee include?
- Access to all conference sessions
- Meals and snacks beginning with our reception and dinner on November 9 through breakfast on November 12
- Friday Special Event at the Harvey Gantt Center and Saturday Closing Celebration & Dance Party
- Access to a group rate at the conference hotel (while rooms are available)
- Access to our conference app
Registration does not cover the cost of your room at the Omni Charlotte Hotel, so please reserve your lodging separately. We’ll share the booking link for the Omni in your registration confirmation email.
What is your refund policy?
You may cancel your registration and receive a full refund through October 16. Room cancellation charges may apply, at WDN’s discretion, in the event that the cancellation of your room reservation after October 16 causes our group to fall below our contractual minimum. We are not able to offer refunds after October 16.