Insight Pt. 2: Center for Black Educator Development, Gift of Life and National Donor Sabbath

In our first segment, we welcome Sharif El-Mekki, Founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development (CBED) — a nationally recognized leader working to rebuild the Black teacher pipeline and advance educational equity. With more than 25 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and movement-builder, Sharif shares how CBED is transforming the educational landscape through professional learning rooted in racial justice, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy. We also highlight BMEC2025 — the Black Men Educators Convening happening November 20, 2025, a powerful gathering for Black educators and allies committed to systems change.
Website: www.thecenterblacked.org
X (formerly Twitter): @centerblacked
Instagram: @centerblacked
Facebook: CenterBlackEd
YouTube: The Center for Black Educator Development (channel) youtube.com

We then turn to an extraordinary annual tradition that blends faith, humanity, and healing. Each November, Gift of Life Donor Sabbath brings together faith leaders from diverse traditions to share a vital message: organ and tissue donation is an act of love, compassion, and charity. All major religions in the United States support donation as a selfless gift that saves lives. Joining us for this inspiring conversation are: Imam Dr. Raymond Brock-Murray, Masjid Baitul Nasr Pastor Charles Leonard, Saint Mark’s Church Rabbi Michael Singer, Congregation Brith Sholom Cynthia Slater, donor mother and advocate Yvette Mason, two-time liver recipient Together, they explore how faith traditions uplift the lifesaving mission of donation, how spiritual leaders guide families through difficult decisions, and why communities of color — especially those disproportionately affected — benefit deeply from trusted faith voices championing this cause.

As always, we close with an invitation to take action: During Donor Sabbath this November, have the conversation with your loved ones and consider registering as an organ donor at donors1.org. Through collective compassion and courage, we can offer hope, healing, and the gift of life.

Gift of Life Donor Program / Donor Sabbath Website: www.donors1.org — specifically their “Gift of Life Donor Sabbath” page. Gift of Life Donor Sabbath
Facebook: Gift of Life Donor Program – FB page Facebook+1
Instagram: @donors1