Today, as in the early days of the Aspen Institute, we find ourselves at a critical inflection point, grappling with an unprecedented rate of societal change. In this era marked by increased polarization, eroding trust, the decline of democratic norms, and rising conflicts, our natural response to the ‘other’—all that is different from us—can often be to meet darkness with darkness. Yet, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. taught us, darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. In confronting these growing social challenges, we must strive to create and step into shared spaces with understanding and compassion, rather than succumb to the shadows of fear and separation.

Inspired by King’s words, the Aspen Global Leadership Network (AGLN) community convened from July 23 to 27, 2024, for the 2024 Resnick Aspen Action Forum under the theme Only Light Can Do That. This gathering in Aspen, CO, drew a global mosaic of nearly 500 AGLN Fellows, young leaders, and other values-driven leaders ready to reconnect, reflect, and recommit to tackling the greatest challenges of our time. 

Through the Institute’s signature seminar dialogues and art and movement activations, participants explored resilience and hope in our collective pursuit of positive change.

Mainstage speakers including Van Jones, Ashley Bell, Geena Rocero, Bayo Akomolafe, and Rabbi Sharon Brous, showcased a different kind of leadership: leadership centered on authenticity, bridging divides, third-way thinking, and authenticity. The 2024 John P. McNulty Prize Winners shared impactful stories of community-based solutions to pressing issues. Expert-led Action Roundtables addressed salient topics like AI, mental health, economic disparity, climate change, rising conflict, and more, sparking new collaborations.

The week underscored a powerful message: darkness need not be feared. It is where innovative solutions are incubated, where initial connections to bridge divides can occur, and where the unknown presents opportunities to harness community and courage for forward progress. Armed with fresh perspectives, strengthened relationships, and commitments to address daunting challenges, participants left the gathering empowered to lead, build trust, and find common ground, ready to take significant steps toward creating a more free, just, and equitable society— together.

Learning and Reflection: Explore key talks from the program in the videos below. Stay tuned for more ways to engage with the AGLN community by following us on social media @AspenAGLN. #AspenAction