The post 2025 Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Media Contact
Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
202-809-2011
media@cbcfinc.org

Washington, D.C.  — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is proud to announce that registration is now open for the 54th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), the nation’s leading and influential policy conference dedicated to advancing the global Black community. Set for September 24–28, 2025, in Washington, D.C., this year’s ALC will center around the bold and timely theme, ‘Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, & Progress,‘ highlighting the strength, influence, and forward momentum of the Black community.

CBCF is honored to welcome Senator Angela Alsobrooks and Representative Joe Neguse as this year’s Honorary Co-Chairs. Their bold leadership and deep commitment to advocacy and service inspire progress and embody the transformative spirit at the heart of the conference.

“We are in a defining moment for Black America—one where our collective power, civic engagement, and policy influence are shaping the future of this nation,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF. “This year’s theme, ‘Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, and Progress,’ reflects the urgency and responsibility of this time. With leaders like Senator Alsobrooks and Congressman Neguse helping guide this year’s conference, we are poised to deliver one of the most impactful gatherings to date.”

Each year, ALC brings together thousands of policymakers, advocates, thought leaders, and emerging voices to explore legislative solutions, celebrate cultural achievements, and advance the movement for equity and justice. Featuring thought-provoking policy sessions and the return of signature events — including the National Town Hall, Day of Healing Prayer Breakfast, Community Breakfast & Health Fair, The Black Party, and the Phoenix Awards Dinner — ALC is designed to educate, inspire, and empower, while celebrating Black leadership and progress.

“The Annual Legislative Conference is a vital opportunity to come together, share ideas, and shape policies that move our communities forward,” said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell, Chair of the CBCF Board of Directors. “By gathering leaders, advocates, and innovators from across the nation, we spark conversations and actions that advance equity, celebrate our culture, and strengthen Black leadership for generations to come.”

For decades, ALC has driven bold action and sparked real change. Now, at a time when democracy faces unprecedented challenges and the livelihood of our communities hang in the balance, the 54th ALC affirms that we are “Made for this Moment,” as we unite leaders to confront urgent issues and chart a path forward.

Registration for the 54th ALC is now open at cbcfinc.org/alc.

For media inquiries or additional information, contact media@cbcfinc.org.

###

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.

The post Registration Opens for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 54th Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Contact:
Yolanda Raine
Vice President of Marketing and Communications
ALCMedia@apcoworldwide.com

Washington, D.C. – The work of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) was honored Saturday night by President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris – noting that these bodies have helped advance freedoms for all Americans that are now under threat ahead of November’s Presidential elections.

As he was honored with the CBC Lifetime Achievement award at the Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner, the flagship event of the CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference, President Biden noted that his administration’s achievements were bolstered by the actions of the CBC.

He said, “With the CBC, we went big and we went bold and we are better off today than we were four years ago. I’m being very sincere when I say a big reason why is because Congress boasts the highest number of Black members in American history.”

Looking beyond his presidency, President Biden added, “We must show up; we must look to the future. I’m looking to you to help lead the way, to help push us forward and be the country we say we are, a country of freedom, justice and equality and proving that Black history is American history and Black excellence is American excellence.”

Vice President Harris called on the CBC to leverage its history as “the conscience of the Congress” to provide a vision for the future of the country.

She said, “As a proud former CBC member I know first-hand America relies on the leaders in this room not only for a conscience but for a vision. The CBC has always had a vision for the future of our nation; a future where we can see what is possible unburdened by what has been, a future where we fulfill the promise of America; a promise of freedom opportunity and justice, not just for some but for all. And today that vision is under profound threat.”

She concluded, “Each of us has a job to do, and the bottom line is we know what we stand for and that’s why we know what we fight for. And when the CBC fights, we win.”

With those powerful words, CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery added “this year’s ALC theme, “From Vision to Victory: Amplifying Black Voices” acts as a challenge to engage, advocate, and drive change, adding that every voice and action strengthens our unity and determination, essential for achieving victory.” 

Additionally, CBCF Board Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL-07) noted that the murder of George Floyd has sparked a renewed commitment to addressing racial inequalities across American society.

She said, “The racial reckoning, brought about by the murder of George Floyd has renewed our energy and our commitment to work for social justice and economic prosperity; and to close the racial gaps that confront all of American society – in education, in income, in home ownership, in environmental justice, in public safety, and so much more.”

This set the stage to honor this year’s trailblazers whose work embodies the spirit of that fight and the theme of #ALC53.

The winners of the 2024 Phoenix Awards are:

• President Joseph R. Biden, Congressional Black Caucus Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Governor of Maryland Wes Moore, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs’ Award 
• The late Sheila Jackson-Lee, former U.S. representative for Texas’s 18th congressional district, Congressional Black Caucus’s Body Award
• The 14^th Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Chair’s Award 
• Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison, Mission In Action Award

Awardee Quotes

Dr. Carla Hayden, “Some have noted that I am making history as the first woman and the first African American in this post, and that is true. As a descendant of people who were denied the right to read to now have the opportunity to serve and lead the institution that is our national symbol of knowledge is a historic moment, and receiving the Phoenix Award is truly one of the capstones of my career.”

Governor Wes Moore said, “I am standing before you as probably the most improbable governor in America. I say that as somebody who had handcuffs on my wrists by the time I was 11, as someone who joined the army when I was 17, and as someone who went to a two-year college, but is now standing in front of you as the 63^rd governor of my state and the first Black governor in the history of the state of Maryland. It is an exciting time for our state. It’s an exciting time for our country and I’m so grateful to be your partner in the work.”

Jaime Harrison said, “As DNC Chair, the third Black person and the first CBCF intern and CBCI boot camper to ever serve in this role, I have been fortunate enough to use this platform to uplift our voices and fight for our communities but most importantly to give our people hope. My life is a testament that in America the son of a teen mom, the progeny of those who came to this country in chains, forced to pick cotton and clean houses, relegated to the back of the bus, can go on to chair the oldest and most powerful political party on the planet, and pick presidents.”

For updates on ALC and CBCF, follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).    

###

About CBCF   

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.  

The post President Biden and Vice President Harris Rally Congressional Black Caucus at CBCF Phoenix Awards, Encouraging Bold Action Toward Their Vision for the Future Ahead of the Presidential Election appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

The post 2024 Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

The post The 52nd Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

“In the spirit of #ALC52, we celebrate the resounding success of this conference and its timeliness. The discussions surrounding ‘Securing Our Democracy. Protecting our Freedoms. Uplifting our Culture.’ have not only been enlightening but also profoundly relevant to the challenges we face today. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our honorary ALC co-chairs and the CBC and CBCF Board chairs for their invaluable contributions to making this event a remarkable platform for dialogue and progress.”

– Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

We had 6 signature events including…

Opening Press Conference

1. Press Release
2. WHEN: Wednesday, September 20, 11:30am – 12:00pm ET
3. WHO: ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Sen. Raphael Warnock and Rep. Stacey E. Plaskett, CBCF Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell, CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery, and Amazon Head of Black Business and Growth Accelerators Danyel Surrency Jones

CBC Spouses Community Breakfast and Health Fair

1. Press Release
2. WHEN: Thursday, September 21, 7:00am – 10:30am ET
3. WHO: Hosted by Congressional Black Caucus spouses; CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery, ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Sen. Raphael Warnock and Rep. Stacey E. Plaskett, CBCF Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell, CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford were also in attendance.

National Town Hall: Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture.

1. Press Release
2. WHEN: Thursday, September 21, 9:00am – 11:00am ET
3. WHO: CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery; Vice President, CBCF Center for Policy Analysis and Research, Dr. Jonathan M. Cox, Ph.D.; Writer and Media Personality, Michael Eric Dyson; Civil Rights Advocate and Scholar, Kimberlé W. Crenshaw; President and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Damon Hewitt; and Chief Policy Officer, Southern Poverty Law Center & SPLC Action Fund, LaShawn Warren
4. SPECIAL GUEST: Entertainer and business mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs

Gospel Extravaganza

1. WHEN: Thursday, September 21, 8:00pm – 10:00pm ET
2. WHO: District choirs, CBC members and faith leaders

Day of Healing

1. WHEN: Saturday, September 23, 7:30am – 10:00am ET
2. WHO: Gospel Artist Karen Clark Sheard and Reverend Dr. Gina Stewart were distinguished special guests; CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery, and CBC Members were also in attendance.

Phoenix Awards

1. Press Release 
2. WHEN: Saturday, September 23, 7:00pm – 9:30pm ET
3. WHO: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 46th President of the United States; Vice President Kamala Harris, 49th Vice President of the United States; CBCF ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Sen. Raphael Warnock and Rep. Stacey E. Plaskett, CBCF Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell, CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford, and CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery.
4. HOSTS: Actor Kofi Siriboe; Comedian, Actress and Writer Janelle James
5. The winners of the 2023 Phoenix Awards are:
   1. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs’ Award 
   2. Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Chair’s Award 
   3. House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8), Congressional Black Caucus’s Body Award 
   4. Tennessee State Rep. Justin Jones (D-TN-52), Congressional Black Caucus Chair’s Award 
   5. MC Lyte and LL Cool J, 2023 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Culture Icon Award

WE HAD OVER 100+ SESSIONS THIS YEAR. CBCF brain trusts tackled everything from bias in AI to the moral urgency to end gun violence. 

Who’s who of CBCF ALC 52:

Between sessions and signature events, CBCF ALC welcomed 58 members of the CBC, including:

• ALC Honorary Co-Chairs 
  1. Sen. Raphael Warnock
  2. Rep. Stacey E. Plaskett

• CBCF Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell
• CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford

Key Sessions:

Artificial Intelligence and Black America: Harnessing the Promise and Mitigating the Harms

• Summary: AI will have profound effects on our economy, society, and daily life — in ways known and unknown. We have an extraordinary opportunity before us to capture its promise, and to lead the world in AI innovation. And we have an urgent responsibility to guard against foreseeable harms: deepfakes, disinformation, and election interference; AI systems that discriminate against marginalized communities in hiring, housing, healthcare; etc. This session will focus on ways to leverage the promise of AI, mitigate risks, elevate Black voices in this critical discourse, invest in STEM learning, and enable emerging technologies to flourish in a responsible way.
• Participants: Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ); Arati Prabhakar, Ph.D., Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy; Charlotte Burrows, Chair, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

The Moral Urgency to End Gun Violence: A Community Conversation with U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock

• Summary: Gun violence is an epidemic. One that has ravaged our country, particularly the black community, for decades. Join Reverend Raphael Warnock, U.S. Senator for Georgia and Senior Pastor of Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church, for a timely conversation to examine the impacts and harm of gun violence on the Black community, and explore how gun violence survivors, advocates, activists, faith leaders, policy experts, elected officials and others need to push in this moment to make institutional change that will finally bring an end to the gun violence crisis.
• Participants: Sen. Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA, 7), Quavo, and Greg Jackson Jr.

Press Conference with Rep Steven Horsford (D-NV-4):

• Summary: CBC Chair Steven Horsford and SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman will provide an update on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to lending equity in underserved communities and will announce new SBA loan data for Black-owned small businesses.

A Fireside Chat: The Battle or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Summary: In recent years, the United States has seen increased efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts. While attacks against these efforts are not new, we are experiencing an important inflection point, with ramifications for our country’s future. During this fireside chat, discussants dissect the motivations and methods behind these rollback efforts and examine their intersection with broader societal and political movements, particularly within the context of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the unique and disproportionate consequences faced by Black individuals. The goal of the session is to outline the true implications of the threat against DEI in this moment, explore strategies for safeguarding DEI principles, and collectively envision a more inclusive society where diversity is celebrated, equity is pursued, and the rights and experiences of Black people are truly valued.
• Participants: Jonathan Cox, Vice President of Center for Policy Analysis and Research, CBCF; Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA-43); Sean “Diddy” Combs, Entertainer and Mogul; Symone Sanders-Townsend, Host of “SYMONE”, MSNBC; Alphonso David, President and CEO, Global Black Economic Forum; Simone Jordan, Global Head of Purpose & Brand Partnerships, Unilever; Dr. Sesha Moon, Director of Office of Diversity and Inclusion, U.S. House of Representatives; Ayana Parsons, Chief Operating Officer, Fearless Fund

Meet and Match-Minority: Suppliers Doing Business with the Public and Private Sectors

• Summary: This is an extraordinary event to give small minority, veteran-owned, service-disabled veteran owned, HUB Zone, and women owned businesses the opportunity to market their capabilities directly to the federal government and private sector companies such as TransCanada, Exxon Mobil, BP, Deloitte, the Department of Army, Department of Homeland Security, and others.
• Representative Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX-18); Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20); Isabela Guzman, Administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration; Hon. Donald R. Cravins, Honorable Donald R. Cravins Under Secretary, Minority Business Development Agency; Shannon Jackson Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Calvin Mitchell, Director of Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S. Department of Education; Annette Owens-Scarboro, Small Business Program Manager, National Institutes of Health; Leonard Grant, Head of Contracting Activity and Director, U.S. Food and Drug Administration; Sanjay Ramabhadran Chair, The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County; Lax Chepuri, CEO, Technogen; Korey Gray, Director of Compliance and Business Development, DC Water

Financial Services Braintrust: Closing the Wealth Gap and Providing Access to Capital

• Participants: Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA-43); Robert F. Smith, Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Vista Equity Partners; Everett Sands, CEO, Lendistry.

Energy Braintrust U.S. – Africa Partnership for Ensuring a Just and Equitable Energy Transition in Africa

• Participants: Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX-18); Apera Nwora; General Manager of External Affairs, JERA Americas; Dr. Pandwe A. Gibson, CEO, EcoTech Visions Inc.; Ralph Cleveland President & CEO, American Association of Blacks in Energy; Albert (AI) Williams, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Chevron; Jerome Ringo, Chairman, Zoetic Global

Preparing the Physician Workforce Today, Bracing for Tomorrow 

• Summary: The health care industry predicts a shortage of physicians and a surge in demand for health care providers in the next decade – we need a comprehensive health care workforce strategy. Hear what is underlying the physician workforce projections, how proposed legislation can increase the number of physicians, and what it will take to diversify the workforce. Learn about successful federal programs, and how to advocate for increased support for health professions training. Other sessions highlights include the impact of the SCOTUS race conscious admissions decision on medical schools and encouraging more underrepresented minorities to pursue careers in medicine.
• Participants: Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL-7); Danielle Turnipseed, Chief Public Policy Officer, Association of American Medical Colleges; Ally Perleoni, Manager of Government Relations, AAMC Center for Health Justice; Wanda Lipscomb, Senior Associate Dean of Diversity and Inclusion, Michigan State University; Theodore M. Shaw, Julius L. Chambers Distinguished Professor of Law, University of North Carolina School of Law; Dr. Jeannette South-Paul, M.D., Chair of the department of Family Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

Stop Cop City Press Conference 

• Summary: Hip Hop Caucus will host a press conference during the CBC ALC to call for continued activism from artists and elected officials, particularly around the pending policy training facility in Atlanta and over policing in Black communities. 
• Participants: Rev. Lennox Yearwood, President & CEO, The Hip Hop Caucus; Kendrick Sampson, Actor & Activist; Amanda Seales, Actor & Comedian

Driving Towards EV Equity

• Summary: Electric vehicles continue to become more prevalent in the State of Alabama, and the Southeast as a whole. This panel will explore how we can leverage policies to foster more innovation in the EV space, address market structures, and discuss what EVs mean for equity and advancement for minority communities.
• Participants: Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL-7); Houston Smith, Vice President of Government Affairs, Alabama Power Company

Meet and Match: How to do Business with the Virgin Islands

• Summary: Virgin Islands Government Agencies such as the Departments of Education, Tourism, Public Works, Housing Finance, the Economic Development Authority, and the Offices of Disaster Recovery and Management and Budget will be on hand to answer questions, capture, and exchange information on new key stakeholders to take back to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Rep. Stacey Plaskett (D-USVI)

Voting Rights Braintrust: Old Battles, New Lines – Redistricting and the Fight for Fair Representation for Black Americans

• Summary: This year’s Voting Rights Braintrust will bring together legal, policy, and advocacy experts to discuss the impact of the landmark Allen V. Milligan Supreme Court decision on redistricting cases across the country and the importance of increasing fair representation for Black voters.
•  Participants: Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL-7); Abha Khanna, Partner, Elias Law Group; Deuel Ross, Deputy Director of Litigation, NAACP Legal Defense Fund; Marc H. Morial, President, National Urban League; Maya Wiley, President & CEO, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights; Cliff Albright, Co-Founder, Black Voters Matter; Evan Milligan, Executive Director, Alabama Forward

Young, Gifted and Black: the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop

• Summary: A discussion of timely topics affecting the lives of young, talented black youth. 
• Participants: Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA-43); Tip Harris, artist, actor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and podcast Host; Yolanda Whitaker, hip hop entertainer, actress, educator, and philanthropist; Aaron Lindsay, Strategy Analyst, Accenture.

Foreign Affairs on Africa: Our Africa, Our Future

• Summary: “Our Africa, Our Future” will be a forward-looking discussion on the future of Africa, as envisioned by Africans. Structured as a fireside chat between Rep. Omar, high-ranking African officials, and prominent citizens active in the advancement, progression, and promotion of the continent. The discussion will cover topics such as economic development, impactful infrastructure investment, conflict resolution, cultural appreciation and celebration, post-colonial recovery, the landscape of trade relations, US militarism, the historic impact of sanctions, and consideration of the international community’s ability to and history of responding to humanitarian, economic and climate-related environmental crises.
• Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN-5); Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, World Renowned Writer; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, World Trade Organization; Patrick Gaspard, President & CEO, Center for American Progress; Janean Davis, Deputy Assistant Administrator, USAID; Alexia Latortue, Assistant Secretary International Trade and Development, US Treasury.

In addition to CBC members, #ALC52 welcomed celebrities such as Quavo, Sean “Diddy” Combs, LL Cool J, Kofi Siriboe, and Janelle James to the week’s important conversations and festivities. 

Thanks to your participation the event was widely covered, and below are some highlights that capture the main themes and issues that were tackled.

• Good Morning America: Georgia Sen. Warnock discusses Congressional Black Caucus – Good Morning America
• Georgia Sen. Raphael Warnock previews the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation kicking off their 52nd annual legislative conference.
• MSNBC: Securing our democracy: Inside the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference
• The foundation’s President & CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery joins Symone Sanders-Townsend to discuss what the conference is about, why it’s important to democracy and why P. Diddy will be there!

• The Grio: Booker says there will be ‘AI revolution’ – but Black Americans can’t be left behind
• Gray DC: Congressional Black Caucus meets in D.C.
• Essence: What You Missed At The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 52nd Annual Legislative Conference
• Variety: Quavo Meets with Vice President Kamala Harris About Gun Control, Appears on ‘Good Morning America’
• CNN Politics: White House strategy on government funding meets serious test this week 
• CNN Politics: McCarthy works through weekend but no progress on short-term fix with just one week until shutdown
• CBS News: Biden warns against shutdown, makes case for second term with VP at Congressional Black Caucus dinner – 
• AP News: Readout of SBA Administrator Guzman’s Participation in Events with Congressional Black Caucus Foundation- 
• C-SPAN:  Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Holds Legislative Conference
• Politico: Playbook PM: Menendez spurns calls for resignation
• Politico: Playbook: How to make sense of those new Biden-Trump polls
• Yahoo! Finance: Readout of SBA Administrator Guzman’s Participation in Events with Congressional Black Caucus Foundation 
• The Washingtonian: 54 Best Things to Do in the DC Area This Week: Theatre Week, Panda Palooza at the Zoo, and the Cathedral’s Window Unveiling 
• Roll Call: Lee, administration officials issue plea for five-year PEPFAR 
• The Shade Room: Quavo Advocates Against Gun Violence at White House & CBC – 
• The Steve Harvey Morning Show: Quavo Tackles Gun Violence With Congress in Honor of TakeOff
• USA Today: Voting rights for all? Democrats push for federal voting protections – 
• BET: NAACP Unveils Legislative Priorities Ahead of Congressional Black Caucus Weekend 2.8M 
• The Hill: The Hill’s Morning Report — Can House Republicans govern? 
• Vice: Democrats Propose Bill to Establish DOJ Office for Missing and Murdered Black Women

We look forward to seeing you next year!

The post Highlights from the 52nd Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Washington, D.C. – Tonight, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris honored the work of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) to uphold democratic norms and institutions and chart a pathway for progress for Black Americans – while warning this work is more important than ever before in a pivotal upcoming election year. 

Speaking at the Phoenix Awards, the flagship signature event of the CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference, President Biden said, “I chose to run because silence is complicit, and I would not be silent.” Adding that, “Democracy was at stake in 2020, and thank God, because of you, we won.” 

He added, “I wish I can say the threat to our democracy ended with our victory in 2020, but it didn’t. Our democracy is still at stake, don’t kid yourself,” before declaring, “political violence in America is never, never, never acceptable in our democracy.” 

Vice President Harris said, “As a proud former CBC member, I thank you for your partnership and your leadership. The CBC has always been the conscience of our country, a truth teller; truths about where we have been and where we must go. Tonight, let us continue to speak truth. Across America, there is a full-on attack on many of the hard-fought, hard-won freedoms that the CBC has achieved.” 

President Biden’s remarks came as the winners of the Phoenix Awards were announced, giving recognition to six people who are serving as leaders and trailblazers for the Black community, creating more opportunities for the next generation in the process.  

The winners of the 2023 Phoenix Awards are: 

• White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs’ Award 

• Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Chair’s Award 
• House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8), Congressional Black Caucus’s Body Award 
• Tennessee State Rep. Justin Jones (D-TN-52), Congressional Black Caucus Chair’s Award 
• MC Lyte and LL Cool J, 2023 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Culture Icon Award 

Speaking at the event, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) noted that this year’s caucus is the largest ever, with 58 members, representing 82 million Americans and making up almost one-quarter of the House Democratic Caucus. 

He said, “The power of the Black community in America today is evident.  And I don’t just mean our political power, but power in every aspect of American life – in our neighborhoods, in business, in media, in the arts and entertainment, in health and science and so many other areas.  We’ve staked our claim to being a powerful force – potentially the most powerful – in our Nation, and we mean to use that power for the good of our people.” 

CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery added that the CBCF has been using investment, education, and new initiatives to improve the lives of Black Americans – in keeping with this year’s ALC theme, “Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture.” 

She said, “In a wide variety of social justice and public policy issues – health care, the economy, the disproportionate effects of climate change, and many more – we’ve used education, investment, and new initiatives to make a real difference in the lives of Black Americans. Nothing is more important in that effort than continuing our scholarship and internship programs.  They’ve given hundreds of young people the opportunity to work in public service and public policy, and we’ve given financial assistance to gifted and motivated young leaders in CBC districts.” 

CBCF Board Chair, Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) added that this year’s #ALC52 conference comes at a pivotal moment, where backsliding in democratic norms is gathering momentum ahead of a Presidential election year. 

She said, “This ALC 52 is much more than a hashtag we want trending, it’s a moment of resistance to the times we are living in. At a time of increased attacks against Black history and Black people, there’s never been a more important time to uplift and empower the mission of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation—to create ‘a world in which all communities have an equal voice’.” 

Awardee Quotes 

Karine Jean-Pierre: “I would not be here today if it were not for the generation of barrier-breaking people before me. This is really a truly humbling experience, and I stand on their shoulders. I have learned from their excellence and benefited from their sacrifices, and I am forever grateful to them.” 

Mayor Karen Bass: “It wasn’t an easy decision to leave Congress, but I had to because Black folk in Los Angeles are 8% of our city and 30% of the people on our streets. In Los Angeles, that’s 46,000 people who sleep on the streets every night, and every night five of them don’t wake up. But CBC will always be in my heart, and even though I might not be a member of Congress I still consider myself part of the CBC family.” 

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries: “Thank you for this incredible honor. Since 1971, the CBC has fought for racial justice, social justice, economic justice and to bring the American dream to life in every single zip code. We will continue to speak up, we will continue to show up, we will continue to stand up until we reach the promised land of liberty and justice for all.”  

State Rep. Justin Jones: “I’m so honored to be standing in this tradition of good trouble, this legacy of liberation, and this reminder that we are a people of progress. On April 6, I was the youngest Black lawmaker, and my colleague and I were expelled fighting for a nation to protect kids and not guns. I’m so humbled to receive this award; not for myself but for the movement of which we are a part.” 

LL Cool J: “In hip hop culture, we’re not always politically correct but we are always artistically correct, and so this love of this culture and this love of this art wouldn’t be anything without all of your support. I want to commend you on everything that you’re doing to make dreams come true around the country for Black men and Black women like myself, and I’d just encourage you to go after your dreams.” 

MC Lyte: “Thank you to the entire CBC for your dedication to change. Because you do what you do, and you take care of the heavy lifting in our communities, we in hip hop get to do what we do and that’s to entertain.” 

For updates on ALC and CBCF, follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).    

###

About CBCF   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.   

The post At Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Phoenix Awards, President Biden, Vice President Harris Warn that American Democratic Norms and Freedoms are at Stake Ahead of 2024 Presidential Elections appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Sponsored by Bristol Myers Squibb, the Breakfast is a key calendar event at the CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). Now in its 52nd year, the ALC’s theme for 2023 is “Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture.,” the conference is hosting a range of thought-provoking policy discussions, collaborative brainstorming on policy solutions, and purposeful action for attendees to apply in their communities.

The Community Breakfast offers a tangible example of this thinking being put into practice, with healthcare professionals providing mammograms, prostrate testing, mental health counseling, vaccinations, and dermatology. Breakfast was provided by DC Central Kitchen, and haircuts were also offered.

CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery said, “Charting a pathway toward progress is a core goal of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference, and the Community Breakfast is an example of us putting that ethos into action. We thank the spouses of the Congressional Black Caucus for leading by example, and for their help in supporting the local community.”

Wendy Short Bartie, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Hematology and Cell Therapy at Bristol Myers Squibb, said, “Promoting healthy communities by addressing health disparities and ensuring access to care is critical to our mission to serve patients and communities. We are happy to provide these services for the District again this year, support the local community and partner with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation for this longstanding event.”

For updates on ALC and CBCF, follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter).

###

About CBCF

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.

The post Congressional Black Caucus Spouses, Healthcare Professionals Serve up Health Screenings at Annual Community Breakfast appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Combs, who recently launched Empower Global, an e-commerce platform for black-owned businesses, said: “My goal is to add diversity in any industry I enter. It’s not just about being in the same room, it’s about sharing power. Companies should empower their employees and partners of color. Don’t just check the box; make sure people of color have real power to make decisions and drive results, and don’t just give us the black budget. Give us real budgets so that we can win. It’s just good business.”

The National Town Hall put the theme of this year’s ALC – “Securing our Democracy. Protecting our Freedom. Uplifting our Culture.” – into practice, charting a pathway toward securing democratic institutions as states continue to pass measures that suppress African American history, such as legislation or executive orders recently passed or enacted by 18 states that prohibit the teaching of alleged “divisive concepts” about race.

These measures include Florida’s efforts in the last year to alter how Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies is taught in classes, bans on Critical Race Theory enacted in multiple states, and bills introduced in more than 30 states to restrict voting rights. To counter this, speakers offered responses that push back against the censorship, misinformation, voter suppression and other tactics that are cumulatively causing this democratic erosion.

The speakers were New York State Attorney General Letitia James; Rep. Stacey Plaskett, ALC Honorary Co-Chair; Rep. Steven Horsford, Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus; Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; Sean “Diddy” Combs, entertainer and entrepreneur; State Rep. Justin Jones, Tennessee State Representative; Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation; Dr. Jonathan M. Cox, Vice President, Center for Policy Analysis and Research, CBCF; Michael Eric Dyson, academic, writer, minister, and radio host; Kimberlé Crenshaw, Executive Director, African American Policy Forum; LaShawn Warren, Chief Policy Officer, Southern Poverty Law Center; LaTosha Brown, Co-Founder, Black Voters Matter Fund; and Samantha Tweedy, Chief Executive Officer, Black Economic Alliance.

Speaking ahead of the October trial of former President Donald Trump, Letitia James said, “With all the fiber, with all of your being, with all of the ancestors who flow through your DNA, we need to tell them the truth. I will be honored when I walk into that courtroom on October 2nd to hold someone responsible, to hold someone accountable. While my role is civil, I will come back before you soon with a check for $250 million, to let you know that he is no longer allowed to do business in the State of New York.”

Kimberlé Crenshaw said, “There are over 23 states that have passed bans on the way black history can be taught.” She added, “We need to understand that this is about taking away our ability to narrate our lives. It’s about taking away the ability to talk about inequality. It’s about our inability to talk about the continuing ways racism shapes every aspect of our existence. If they can take away our ability to speak about reality, how are we going to be able to transform our reality.”

Rep. Terri Sewell said, “Today, we know that old battles have become new again and our progress is under attack across the nation. Extremists are fanning the flames of racism, disinformation, and missing information. Our freedoms are erased, our culture is eroded, and our democracy is undermined. We see these new attacks every day: whitewashing our history, removing stories from our textbooks, restricting the right to vote, and the list goes on and on.” She added, “We are truly at an inflection point in American society in the face of these attacks, with Americans being called upon to speak up, stand up, and take action.”

Sen. Raphael Warnock said, “This is a moral moment in our country. We are called upon again to push the nation to center equity, all of its discussions and all of its policies, and to move forward the continuing project of democracy. Black folk have always had to play a particular kind of role in that work because we’ve been on the underside of that conversation somewhere, caught between being and becoming a democracy yet to be.”

The post Sean “Diddy” Combs Applauds Black Leaders’ Commitment to Defending Democracy, Driving Corporate Diversity at Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

Against a backdrop of the Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down affirmative action programs, and DEI initiatives stalling across Corporate America, this year’s ALC – and its theme, Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture. – takes on even greater significance, with a full agenda that includes a National Town Hall on Safeguarding the Truth and Protecting Our Democracy, and panels focused on conserving a democratic future.

Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF, said, “With a pivotal presidential election ahead of us, it is more important than ever for us to come together at ALC to chart a path toward progress that is both meaningful and long lasting. It is vital that we all engage and do what we can, alongside legislators and policymakers, to fortify our democracy, protect fundamental freedoms, and celebrate the richness and vibrancy of our cultural heritage.”

This year, #ALC52 is being presented by Amazon, which has provided $1.5 million to support the renowned Washington, DC, convening and its popular signature events: Community Breakfast and Health Fair; National Town Hall; Gospel Extravaganza; Day of Healing; and the Phoenix Awards. Amazon also affirmed its steadfast support of CBCF’s mission to educate and empower future Black leaders through the creation of a new HBCU scholarship.

Brian Kenner, Amazon’s Head of Community Engagement said, “Our country is at its best when we are working toward a more just and equitable society for every American. Scholarships are an important way of removing prohibitive financial barriers that can prevent some of our most promising young people from realizing their full potential. Amazon is proud to partner with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation not only on scholarship provision, but in propelling young leaders, advancing meaningful dialogue and inciting positive change.”

This year, ALC honorary co-chairs, Rep. Stacey Plaskett and Sen. Raphael Warnock, are leading an agenda that takes in a broad array of topics of importance to Black America and the global Black community, including racial bias in both AI and medicine, improving equity in transportation, and passing the Momnibus.

Rep. Plaskett said, “Previous presidential elections have shown us just how precious the democratic process is in America. This year’s ALC will give us the opportunity to explore transformative dialogue and actionable solutions that can potentially shape and brighten our nation’s future.”

Sen. Warnock said, “This is a moral moment for our country, and this year’s ALC is taking place at a critical time in which we are literally seeing the democratic principles underpinning our nation under attack. This convening is an important call to action for CBCF’s network of thinkers, changemakers, organizers, activists, strategists and community members who are doing the work to secure our freedoms and the blessings of our democracy for future generations.”

###

About CBCF

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.

The post Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Kicks Off 52nd Annual Legislative Conference with a Call to Secure Our Democracy, Protect Our Freedoms and Uplift Our Culture appeared first on Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.