The ACTFL Black Language Educators (ABLE) Institute is an immersive program offering support, mentorship, and leadership training to help aspiring Black language teachers thrive in their teaching journeys.
Limited financial stipends may be available in 2026 to qualified participants.
Highlights from July 2025
The second ABLE Institute was held in July 2025 at Howard University in Washington, DC.
Over the course of three days, the cohort participated in workshops, explored the field of world language education, connected with peers, and reflected on their individual career goals and pathways.
Participants unanimously shared that they felt more confident in their ability to pursue a career in language education having completed this experience, and that they would recommend ABLE to others.
"ABLE matters because it creates meaningful opportunities—especially for African American students like me—to see what’s possible for our futures. [...]
Being surrounded by supportive people who look like me made all the difference. ABLE helps students feel seen, capable, and empowered—and that’s something worth investing in."
– Maliyah
"The ABLE Institute both affirmed and uplifted my identity and voice, because I never knew there were so many people that looked like me involved in Black language education.
It feels like I've discovered a new passion and calling."
– Hannah Rose
Join Us in Sustaining Black Futures in Language Education: Programs like ABLE are made possible by generous contributions to LCF from donors like you!
By championing Black language educators, individuals, companies, and foundations contribute to creating a more inclusive and dynamic educational landscape—one that addresses racial disparities in teacher representation and prepares all students for success in a multilingual and multicultural world.