This year’s Phoenix Awards carry particular significance as the 50th presentation of the awards – marking five decades of honoring leaders whose courage, service, and achievement have advanced Black communities and shaped the nation.

As CBCF commemorates its 50th anniversary, the Phoenix Awards Dinner will celebrate five decades of impact and state its purpose for the work ahead. The black-tie event, renowned as the culminating program of the 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), will be hosted by Actress La La Anthony and Actor Amin Joseph. The evening will recognize EGOT winner Viola Davis, civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young, former Congressional Black Caucus Chair Representative Joyce Beatty, and former Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder. The dinner begins at 6 p.m. on September 18 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

“In this anniversary year, the Phoenix Awards carry special meaning,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF. “For 50 years, CBCF has invested in leaders, informed policy and expanded opportunity for Black communities. This year’s honorees reflect the courage, excellence and sustained public service that have defined that legacy – and the leadership our nation will continue to need in the decades ahead.”

The Phoenix Awards Dinner is CBCF’s premier recognition and fundraising event. It convenes leaders across government, business, philanthropy, advocacy and culture while generating critical support for the Foundation’s nonpartisan research, education, leadership development, fellowship and scholarship programs. In its 50th anniversary year, the dinner underscores the enduring power of leadership rooted in service – and CBCF’s commitment to preparing the next generation to meet the country’s most consequential challenges.

2026 Phoenix Awards Honorees

Viola Davis will receive the CBC Chair’s Award. One of the few artists to achieve EGOT status, Davis has shaped the cultural landscape through performances marked by emotional truth, dignity, and depth. Her memoir, Finding Me, offered an intimate account of triumph over circumstance and imposed labels, while her advocacy and community partnerships have advanced systemic change and elevated voices too often overlooked.

Joyce Beatty will receive the CBC Body Award. A longtime public servant and former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Beatty has championed policies that expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and advance prosperity for historically underserved Americans. Her record of legislative leadership and investment in the next generation reflects a career defined by advocacy, coalition-building and measurable public impact.

Ambassador Andrew Young will receive the CBCF Board Chair Award. A central figure in the American civil rights movement, Young helped shape its strategy and vision before continuing his service as a U.S. Congressman, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Mayor of Atlanta. Across more than six decades, he has demonstrated how principled leadership and diplomacy can advance peace, justice, human dignity and opportunity across generations.

L. Douglas Wilder will receive the ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Award. As the first African American elected governor of a U.S. state, Wilder broke a historic barrier and widened the path for generations of Black leaders in public life. His service in the Virginia Senate, Governor’s Mansion, and Richmond Mayor’s Office reflects a sustained commitment to civil rights, economic opportunity, and representative government.

About the Annual Legislative Conference

The Annual Legislative Conference is the leading policy conference focused on issues affecting African Americans and the global Black community. ALC features more than 70 public policy forums addressing health, education, economic empowerment, the environment and civic engagement, along with an Exhibit Showcase. Signature programs include the National Town Hall, Celebration of Leadership in Fine Arts, Gospel Extravaganza, Black Party, Prayer Breakfast, and the culminating Phoenix Awards Dinner.

For conference updates, visit cbcfinc.org/alc and follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. Established in 1976, CBCF is committed to creating and maintaining an equitable society for all. To learn more, visit cbcfinc.org.

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Media Contact:
Jennifer Cho & Marc Banks
alcmedia@cbcfinc.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Against a backdrop of consequential challenges facing Black communities across America, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) will open its 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) today with an urgent call for leadership, civic engagement and collective action.

Annual Legislative Conference Co-Chairs, Representatives Alma Adams and Glenn Ivey, CBC Chair, Representative Yvette Clarke, CBCF Board Chair, Representative Terri Sewell and CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery will be joined by some of the nation’s leading civil rights voices – Janai Nelson, President and Director-Counsel, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund; Melanie Campbell, President and CEO, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation; and Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law – for an opening press briefing focused not only on the start of a conference, but on the stakes of this moment for Black America and the work required to meet it.

The message: this is a moment to show up.

Across the country, Black Americans continue to confront profound challenges touching nearly every aspect of daily life from economic opportunity and health disparities to education, voting rights, and criminal justice. These are not isolated struggles; addressing these systemic barriers is essential to ensuring a fair, equitable, and prosperous future for all people. For 50 years, CBCF has worked to build the leadership, research, policy infrastructure and public engagement necessary to confront challenges like these. As the Foundation marks its 50th anniversary, CBCF and its partners will use the opening of ALC 55 to make clear that commemorating that history also demands action in the present.

“There are moments when gathering together is about celebration, and there are moments when gathering is an act of purpose. This year, it must be both,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “The challenges facing Black America—and indeed all people—demand more than our attention. They demand our participation, our leadership, and our collective resolve. Fifty years ago, CBCF was built because our communities needed lasting institutions capable of turning knowledge into leadership and leadership into progress. That responsibility belongs to every one of us now. We are Rooted. We are Ready. And together, we are Rising.”

The press conference will bring together civil rights and community leaders to highlight what is on the line for Black America and every community, outlining clear ways that individuals and institutions everywhere can drive meaningful change.

The gathering will set the tone for five days of policy dialogue, organizing, education and engagement at ALC 55, taking place September 16-20 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The ALC opening press conference will be held at Franklin Park alongside the CBC Spouses Community Breakfast & Health Fair in the same location, demonstrating how the Foundation’s work connects directly with the needs of the communities we serve.

Under the theme Rooted, Ready & Rising, this year’s ALC marks two milestones: CBCF’s 50th anniversary and the 55th year of its Annual Legislative Conference. CBCF leaders say the anniversary is not simply an opportunity to look backward. It is a reminder of why institutions capable of sustaining leadership, knowledge, and civic engagement across generations remain essential.

Rooted in the people and movements that built the path to this moment.

Ready to confront the challenges facing Black and underserved communities and build a better future for all.

Rising to build the leadership, ideas and institutions necessary for what comes next.

That charge will carry throughout ALC 55, where more than 100, in-person issue forums and established brain trusts will bring together elected officials, policymakers, advocates, entrepreneurs, professionals, students, cultural voices and community leaders.

For five decades, CBCF has worked to ensure Black communities and all people seeking equity and opportunity have a voice in the policy conversations shaping their lives. Through its Leadership Institute, Center for Public Policy and Research, and public engagement programs, the Foundation develops leaders, informs policy, and educates the public.

This week, Washington becomes the gathering place for that work.

The invitation is not simply to attend. It is to engage. To listen. To organize. To lead. And to carry the work beyond the walls of the conference.

OPENING PRESS CONFERENCE

WHAT: ALC 55 Opening Press Conference — Rooted, Ready & Rising: A Call to Action

WHEN: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
9:30 a.m. ET

WHERE: Franklin Park
1332 I Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005

WHO:
Nicole Austin-Hillery
President and CEO, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

Janai Nelson
President and Director-Counsel, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.

Melanie Campbell
President and CEO, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation

Damon Hewitt
President and Executive Director, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

MEDIA: Members of the press are encouraged to attend. For media access and information, contact alcmedia@cbcfinc.org.

About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global Black and underserved community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. As a 501(c)(3), CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.

About the Annual Legislative Conference

CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference is a leading public policy convening focused on issues impacting Black Americans and the global Black community. ALC brings together elected officials, policymakers, thought leaders, advocates, entrepreneurs, professionals, students, influencers and engaged citizens for policy dialogue, leadership development, networking, cultural programming and signature events.

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Media Contact
Jennifer Cho
jcho@cbcfinc.org
202.263.2800

Today, August 4, 2026, marks the official 50^th anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. In recognition of this historic milestone, CBCF President & CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery released the following statement:

Fifty years ago, our founders laid the groundwork for an institution built on an unyielding vision of equity, opportunity, and transformational leadership. Today, as we celebrate the 50^th Anniversary of the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), we proudly embrace this significant achievement under the banner of Rooted, Ready, and Rising. We honor our enduring legacy and commitment to advancing the well-being of the global Black community and all people throughout our nation and worldwide.

This historic anniversary is more than a moment. It marks a year-long celebration of our collective impact. Beginning with our inaugural Legacy and Leadership Gala in April and continuing through signature programming, including special commemorations at this September’s Annual Legislative Conference, this golden anniversary invites reflection on five decades of building a powerful leadership pipeline and providing vital policy analysis and research for decision-makers from grassroots communities to the highest levels of government.

When members of the Congressional Black Caucus established CBCF in 1976 as an independent, nonpartisan research and educational institute, they planted the seeds meant to withstand the test of time. We are rooted in the strength, courage, and vision of our founders who built this institution to ensure no community is ever left out of the national conversation when it comes to shaping policy. Their purpose was to construct a permanent pillar of empowerment which creates pathways for current and emerging leaders, scholars, and community members to shape the just and inclusive society we all deserve.

Because of that strong foundation, we are ready to navigate the complex challenges of today on behalf of our entire national and global community. For half a century, CBCF has served as a policy-driven engine for change. Through our flagship internship and fellowship programs, scholarship funds, public health and economic empowerment initiatives, and policy research we have equipped thousands of leaders who engineer progress in government, business, academia, and civil society.

As we look toward the next 50 years, we are rising to meet the future. CBCF will continue to build bridges, foster collaboration, and empower the next generation to eliminate systemic disparities in education, health, wealth, and civic participation.

We celebrate this 50-year anniversary with an abundance of gratitude for our founders, the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, board members, partners, alumni, and supporters. Together, firmly rooted in our legacy and ready for the work ahead, we will keep rising to ensure the promise of equity, prosperity, and human dignity is realized for all people, including Black Americans, that have been historically excluded.

We are especially grateful to our founders including:

• Rep. Shirley Chisholm (NY-12)
• Rep. William L. Clay Sr. (MO-01)
• Rep. George W. Collins (IL-06)
• Rep. John Conyers Jr. (MI-01)
• Rep. Ronald V. Dellums (CA-07)
• Rep. Charles C. Diggs Jr. (MI-13)
• Rep. Walter E. Fauntroy (D.C. Delegate)
• Rep. Augustus F. Hawkins (CA-21)
• Rep. Ralph H. Metcalfe (IL-01)
• Rep. Parren J. Mitchell (MD-07)
• Rep. Robert N.C. Nix Sr. (PA-02)
• Rep. Charles B. Rangel (NY-18)
• Rep. Louis Stokes (OH-21)

Be a part of supporting our mission today: https://www.cbcfinc.org/donate/individual-giving/

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency

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Washington, DC — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (“CBCF”) this morning responded in federal court to The American Alliance for Equal Rights and Defending Education’s meritless complaint challenging The CBCF Spouses’ Education Scholarship.  Our response, linked here, makes plain that the plaintiffs are wrong on both the facts and the law and that their lawsuit should be dismissed.  

In response to this morning’s filing, Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation; and co-counsels Jason Schwartz, Partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP; and Alphonso David, Civil Rights Attorney and President & CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum issued the following statements:   

“For 50 years, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation has been dedicated to a world in which all communities have an equal voice in public policy including ensuring that African Americans and other marginalized communities in the United States have the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.  For more than 40 of those years, the spouses of CBC members have supported the CBCF’s Spouses’ Education Scholarship program, furthering our commitment to public policy, research, education and leadership development by advancing our mission as an educational institution,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “Today’s motion to dismiss makes clear that the legal challenges to our scholarship program by the American Alliance for Equal Rights and Defending Education—another in their long line of efforts to target groups that advance the Black community—-is without merit. The scholarship is entirely lawful, is an enormous benefit to all students, and will proceed to help countless students and the institutions that educate them.”

“Today in our legal filing, the CBCF makes clear that the scholarship program they support and which the plaintiffs have wrongly challenged complies with the law,” said co-counsel Jason Schwartz, Partner at Gibson Dunn. “The plaintiffs’ challenge is wrong on both the facts and the law.”

“The lawsuit filed by The American Alliance for Equal Rights and Defending Education against the CBCF is on its face baseless. Their misunderstanding of the law and lack of due diligence on the basic facts reveals that something far more consequential is at stake here. This lawsuit is an attack on the speech and debate privileges held by Members of Congress, an indifference to the first amendment freedoms of speech and association that we all enjoy and demeaning to the extraordinary generosity of a scholarship program created by African Americans but open to all,” said co-counsel Alphonso David, Civil Rights Attorney and President & CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum. “The CBCF Spouses’ Education Scholarship comports with the law and we expect this meritless lawsuit to be dismissed.”  

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Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.

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Media Contact:
Marc Banks
alcmedia@cbcfinc.org

The Nation’s Premier Gathering of Black Political Power and Thought to Convene in Washington, D.C., as CBCF Marks its 50th Anniversary and the Conference Enters its 55th Year.

Washington, D.C. — Today, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) announced the theme for its 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC): Rooted, Ready & Rising taking place September 16-20, 2026. The theme commemorates CBCF’s 50th anniversary and serves as a reminder of a community’s collective perseverance and indomitable spirit.

Black lawmakers held the inaugural ALC, then titled Black Caucus Weekend, in the 70s – laying the foundation for what would become the bellwether of Black political engagement in America. It remains a space where the conversations shaping the nation’s future have always begun.

What started as a convening of lawmakers and community leaders has grown into one of the largest cross-industry gatherings in the country, uniting elected officials, policymakers, thought leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, and the next generation of changemakers under one roof.

“The Annual Legislative Conference has stood the test of time as a homecoming for Black political power and thought,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “This year, that has never been more urgent. Rooted, Ready and Rising captures the spirit of a community that has never waited for permission to lead. It is at once a celebration of what has been built over 50 years and a charge to the generation inheriting the work.”

As the nation’s leading Black public policy conference, CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference offers over one hundred free in-person issue forums and established brain trusts, with select virtual programming over five days. The event brings together elected officials, policymakers, and community leaders to engage on the issues shaping Black communities nationwide.

“The ALC exists so that activists, community leaders, influential individuals, civically engaged citizens, and elected officials can connect and strategize seriously around the impactful work of public policy,” said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (D-NY-11), Chair, Congressional Black Caucus. “I am encouraged to know this conference represents so many things to many people, but most importantly, it is a clarion call for our community to rally around what we see as critical to addressing, from economic equity to health disparities, to voting rights and criminal justice reform. This is where policy meets people and purpose. It is where our collective voice can become collective action through strategy and insight.”

“Each year, the ALC offers a vital opportunity to confront the most pressing issues shaping our current social, political, and cultural landscapes,” said Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL-7), Chair, CBCF Board of Directors. “Given everything this year has brought into focus, I am mindful and grateful for all those who paved the way for this convening. I look forward to the uplifting and hard conversations that will undoubtedly help us rise toward a future that reflects the full promise of American democracy.”

The 55th Annual Legislative Conference will see Congressional leaders Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-NC-12) and Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-MD-4) serve as Honorary Co-chairs for the five-day public policy event.

“In addition to being a transformative organization that has prepared leaders, uplifted critical conversations, and pushed public policy forward, CBCF continues to serve as an accelerator and change agent,” said Congresswoman Alma Adams (D-NC-12). “This year the theme reflects exactly that. We are Rooted in our history, Ready for this moment, and Rising to meet what comes next.”

“This year’s conference arrives at a moment when the stakes of Black political engagement have never been higher,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-MD-4). “Against the backdrop of the current landscape, the ALC stands as both sanctuary and staging ground, a place to recharge, reconnect, and recommit to the work that has defined this organization for half a century.”

The 55th Annual Legislative Conference will see the return of signature events – the National Town Hall, Day of Healing Prayer Breakfast, the Gospel Extravaganza, the Black Party, and the Phoenix Awards Dinner. These signature events, in addition to more than 100 public policy forums, serve as an opportunity to recognize and honor luminaries and pivotal cultural moments. The ALC is the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s largest initiative, funding the essential work of the Leadership Institute and the Center for Public Policy and Research as well as other mission-critical work.

Members of the media are invited to request credentials by August 31, 2026. Please visit cbcfinc.org/ALC.

For Frequently Asked Questions, please visit https://events.cbcfinc.org/e/alc55/page/faqs.

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About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org and follow @CBCFinc on social platforms. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.

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Media Contact
Jennifer Cho
jcho@cbcfinc.org
202.263.2800

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 9, 2026 — Nicole Austin-Hillery, President & CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), has been named a 2026 Power 50 Woman of Influence by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC). This prestigious national recognition honors exceptional women who are shaping industries, advancing communities, and driving meaningful economic and cultural impact.

Selected from a distinguished group of leaders across business, media, public service, and entrepreneurship, the Power 50 Women of Influence represent a dynamic network of trailblazers whose work continues to redefine leadership and expand opportunity on a national and global scale.

This year’s theme, “Women Who Lead the Movement,” highlights women who are not only achieving excellence in their respective fields, but who are also actively creating pathways, shifting narratives, and building lasting legacies.

“On behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, I am honored to be recognized among such an extraordinary group of women who are leading with purpose, passion, and impact. True movement leadership is about building bridges and shifting systems so that prosperity, equity, and justice are accessible to all,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President & CEO, CBCF. “At CBCF, our daily mandate is to uplift the global Black community and champion the needs of all historically discriminated against and marginalized groups. This recognition belongs to our entire team and our partners who work to cultivate the next generation of changemakers and eliminate systemic barriers in all halls of power where key decisions are made from Congress to corporate board rooms.”

In her role as President & CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery has successfully expanded CBCF’s scale by launching transformative new programs, campaigns, and initiatives aimed at advancing the global Black community and all underserved groups. Under her stewardship, the Foundation which this year celebrates its 50^th Anniversary, has significantly strengthened its leadership pipeline for emerging leaders, deepened its influence on public policy research, and expanded its reach in empowering historically disenfranchised communities worldwide.

“The Power 50 Women of Influence represent excellence in every sense of the word,” said Ron Busby Sr., President and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “These women are visionary leaders, barrier breakers, and change agents who continue to redefine what is possible. We are honored to celebrate their extraordinary contributions and the lasting impact they are making across industries and communities.”

About USBC Power 50: The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Power 50 Women of Influence initiative honors dynamic women leaders who are driving economic growth, advancing social progress, and creating lasting, generational impact across industries including business, media, finance, technology, public service, and philanthropy.

The 2026 honorees will be celebrated at the annual Power 50 Women of Influence Luncheon on July 13, 2026, hosted at the Ritz-Carlton in Washington, D.C. This signature event brings together an influential network of executives, founders, policymakers, and cultural leaders for an elevated celebration of excellence, leadership, and impact.

About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF)

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.

About U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.

U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. is the leading national organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Through advocacy, programming, and strategic partnerships, USBC advances economic empowerment and sustainable growth within Black communities nationwide.

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Victoria Alexander

Ashanti Allen

Rayven Edwards

Cerina Fairfax

Bianca Huntley

Gladys Johnson-Ball

Rev. Tammy McCollum

Nancy Metayer

Throughout 2026, the murders of Black women in domestic violence incidents captured national attention, but the cases that made headlines tell only part of a much larger story.

Black femicide—a term coined by activist and researcher Rosalind Page—refers to the killing of Black women and girls because they are Black and female. While the term has been popularized in the last few years, Black femicide is centuries old and rooted in institutional devaluation and normalized violence against Black bodies. Today, Black women make up 14% of the US population and one-third of all women murdered by men. The anti-Black racism and sexism uniquely experienced by Black women result in abductions, exploitation, and murders that are drastically under reported by mass media compared to that of white women. While significant disparities persist in reporting data and stories documenting the disproportionate harm experienced by Black women, mass media often perpetuates dangerous stereotypes that portray Black women as aggressive, hypersexual, and uniquely resilient to suffering.

Black femicide does not occur in isolation. It exists along a continuum of violence that includes economic insecurity, workplace discrimination, barriers to health care, and the routine devaluation of Black women’s experiences. These forms of structural and passive violence often limit access to resources, reduce opportunities to seek support, and reinforce conditions that increase vulnerability to interpersonal violence. The same systems that render Black women disproportionately exposed to poverty, maternal mortality, housing instability, and workplace mistreatment also contribute to a culture in which violence against Black women is minimized, overlooked, and insufficiently addressed.

Policies that acknowledge Black femicide and protect Black women are scarce. Federally, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women distributes funding provided through the Violence Against Women Act, which was recently reauthorized by Congress in 2022. The act provides funding for programs that address domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking throughout the country. However, there are no federal level policies that directly address Black femicide.

State level policy can often serve as a blueprint for effective federal solutions. In 2023, Minnesota was the first state to establish an Office of Missing and Murdered Black Women and Girls. Building on this, Professor Tiara Willie at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health created the Screaming in Silence Policy ToolKit, which includes a model law that any state can adopt to replicate what Minnesota has done. The model law includes a customizable comprehensive framework to improve prevention, response, and accountability through better data collection, case review, policy recommendations, community investments, training, and a missing and endangered persons alert program.

In April, Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Protecting Victims Act of 2026. The legislation protects victims of domestic violence by enhancing accountability measures against offenders and protecting the privacy and safety of survivors. Although this bill does not specifically address Black femicide, it is a needed intervention to protect Black women in the District, as the city’s population is 43.6 % Black and 52.6% female. Additionally, domestic violence assaults with a dangerous weapon have increased in D.C., putting many Black women at risk.

Minnesota and Washington, D.C.’s recent efforts demonstrate that action is possible, but more must be done. States and the federal government should adopt policies that specifically address Black femicide, improve accountability, and invest in the safety and well-being of Black women and girls. Addressing Black femicide requires recognizing that lethal violence exists on a continuum with the structural and interpersonal harms Black women experience in their homes, workplaces, and communities. Their lives, like the lives of Victoria Alexander, Ashanti Allen, Rayven Edwards, Cerina Fairfax, Bianca Huntley, Gladys Johnson-Ball, Rev. Tammy McCollum, and Nancy Metayer and the countless other victims on Black femicide, are worth protecting, and our policies should reflect that reality.

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