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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Media Contact
Jessica Josey
Digital Media Manager
202.680.2243
media@cbcfinc.org

In response to the Supreme Court decision in the voting rights case challenging Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, Louisiana v. Callais, CBCF President & CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery issued the following statement:

“The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) acknowledges the Supreme Court’s ruling in Louisiana v. Callais, which carries serious implications for key provisions of the Voting Rights Act. As a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) institution dedicated to the nation’s civic health through public education and leadership development, we remain steadfast in our mission: ensuring that the interests of Black Americans, and all underrepresented and historically marginalized groups, are prioritized and protected. The Voting Rights Act is a cornerstone of this mission.

As CBCF marks its 50th Anniversary this year, we are reminded of a founding principle: that we must ensure the perspectives and needs of every citizen are reflected in how we are governed.  A healthy democracy requires the active protection of the rights of all voters, and every citizen deserves a fair and representative voice in it. Our work through leadership development, policy analysis, and the convening of voices underscores this principle.

At CBCF, we will continue to do our part to make sure every person has the tools needed to understand the rights of all voters. We will continue to encourage civic engagement through empowering communities with essential information about how redistricting affects their access to the ballot and local representation.

While legal interpretations of the Voting Rights Act continue to evolve through the court system, our resolve to support underrepresented and underserved populations and to serve as a resource remains unchanged.

We will continue to provide the information and education necessary to help communities navigate these changes. By working together, we can ensure that the fundamental promise of equal representation remains a reality for every person, regardless of their zip code or background.”

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
Jessica Josey
Digital Media Manager
202.680.2243
media@cbcfinc.org

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, issued the following statement on the passing of Representative David Scott (GA-13), who died at age 80.

“We have lost a dedicated public servant with the passing of Congressman David Scott. Throughout his decades of work, he remained a true champion, protecting the agricultural interests of Georgia and our entire nation.

Representative Scott blazed a historic path as the first Black leader to chair the House Agriculture Committee. His time in Congress, spanning nearly thirteen terms, included an unyielding focus on the well-being of his constituents in the bordering Atlanta area and the integrity of our food systems. He understood the intersection of balancing policy with the everyday needs of families in the community he served as he also worked to ensure access to jobs, housing, healthcare, and improvements to local infrastructure. He was also a staunch supporter of our nation’s veterans.

David Scott approached governing with a pragmatic spirit. His career demonstrated a valuable ability to bridge divides, ensuring the priorities of his home state were addressed at the highest level of federal policymaking.

Our thoughts are with his family and the community he faithfully represented. We are certain his commitment to the people of Georgia will serve as a lasting example to those who follow in his footsteps.”

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: 
Jennifer Cho
917-657-5626
media@cbcfinc.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On April 16, 2026, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) will mark a historic half-century of service with the CBCF Honors: Legacy and Leadership Gala. Hosted at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, the gala serves as the premier celebration of the Foundation’s 50th anniversary presented under the theme—‘Rooted. Ready. Rising.’ The evening will honor the visionary partners, founders, and supporters who have championed Black leadership and policy advancement since 1976.

Established during the American Bicentennial, CBCF has spent five decades at the forefront of social justice, civic engagement, and leadership development. The 50th Anniversary Gala arrives as the nation prepares for its own 250th anniversary, highlighting CBCF’s role in ensuring that the American promise of equity is extended to all.

“The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation functions as a vital bridge between the halls of power and the communities we serve. This milestone is a testament to the enduring vision of our founders to create a permanent institution dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders and providing the research-driven insights necessary to advance equity across our nation,” said Nicole-Austin Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we remain committed to being a beacon of opportunity and equity for the next 50 years and beyond.”

“This gala is more than a reflection on our past; it is a definitive call to action for the future,” said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell, Chair of the CBCF Board of Directors. “For fifty years, we have been a cornerstone institution for developing leaders and informing policy. As we look toward the next fifty, we are focused on investments in our mission to ensure the next generation of changemakers has the resources to lead.”

The evening’s program will feature:

• Archival Storytelling: A journey through five decades of CBCF’s influence on American policy.
• Distinguished Awards: Recognizing corporate and philanthropic partners who have been instrumental to the Foundation’s growth.
• Cultural Excellence: A short film premiere celebrating Black excellence.
• …and award-winning musical performers and cultural icons!

The event will convene an influential national audience, including Members of Congress, senior policymakers, corporate executives, and CBCF alumni.

Registration for the event is now open at https://events.cbcfinc.org/e/cbcf-honors-gala

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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. 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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