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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Marc Banks
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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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Jennifer Cho
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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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Media Contact:
Tiffany E. Browne
Director, Marketing and Communications
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
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[Washington, D.C.] — Today, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) officially launches its yearlong 50th anniversary celebration, marking five decades of advancing equity, cultivating leadership, and shaping public policy to improve the lives of Black communities and all Americans. Guided by the theme “Rooted. Ready. Rising.”, CBCF’s 50th anniversary honors the visionaries who built a durable infrastructure for Black political influence — one that has endured backlash, retrenchment, and erasure — while asserting the Foundation’s role in shaping what comes next.

Founded in 1976 to support the mission of the Congressional Black Caucus, CBCF has become a premier nonpartisan, nonprofit institution at the center of Black political leadership, policy innovation, and civic engagement. The milestone year reflects both continuity and momentum: honoring the past, confronting the present, and investing boldly in the future.

“This is not simply a celebration of longevity, it is a declaration of purpose,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “For 50 years, CBCF has helped transform representation into real power by developing leaders, advancing ideas, and driving policies that expand opportunity and protect our democracy. As we honor the legacy that brought us here, we are clear about the work ahead and committed to leading with courage, clarity, and conviction into the next generation.”

In addition to its regular programming such as the Scholarship Classic in June and the Annual Legislative Conference in September, throughout the anniversary year, CBCF will activate its legacy through a series of signature events and initiatives that bring the theme to life and engage communities nationwide.

The celebration will include:

CBCF Honors: Legacy and Leadership Gala – a marquee event recognizing visionary leaders and changemakers whose work reflects CBCF’s mission and impact and;

50 Cities, 50 Acts of Service: Legacy in Motion – a nationwide initiative mobilizing communities to honor the Foundation’s history through collective action and service.

Throughout the year, CBCF will convene thought leaders and policymakers through mini Annual Legislative Conferences including one in New Jersey focused on advancing health equity, and a Policy Summit in Chicago — a TED Talk–style convening spotlighting data-driven solutions to the most pressing challenges facing Black communities and the nation — all leading to the culminating Annual Legislative Conference, September 16–20 in Washington, DC, where leaders, advocates, and changemakers from across the country will gather to shape the policy conversations that move the nation forward.

In addition, the Foundation will commemorate the 20th anniversary of AVOICE, CBCF’s digital archive and virtual exhibit that chronicles the history of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and the leaders who have shaped American democracy. As a living record of Black political power and policymaking, AVOICE underscores CBCF’s longstanding commitment to preserving history while educating and inspiring future generations.

Together, these moments underscore CBCF’s unique role at the intersection of policy, leadership, and community impact, while expanding the Foundation’s reach and relevance in a rapidly changing political landscape.

As it enters its next chapter, CBCF is grounded in legacy, prepared for the challenges of today, and energized by a rising generation ready to lead. For more information about CBCF’s 50th anniversary and upcoming events, visit cbcfinc.org.

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About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (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.

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Hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of NAN, the King Day Legislative Breakfast honors leaders who have advanced Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of justice, equity, and opportunity for all. Austin-Hillery will be recognized alongside a distinguished group of national leaders, including former U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr.; Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott; BET co-founder and Salamander Collection CEO Sheila Johnson; veteran political strategist Donna Brazile; and youth leader Eric Carpenter-Grantham.

“Nicole Austin-Hillery is a visionary leader whose work embodies Dr. King’s call to develop courageous leadership and expand opportunity for future generations,” said Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell, Chair of the CBCF Board of Directors. “Under her leadership, CBCF has strengthened its impact, deepened its commitment to public service, and continued to prepare young people to lead with purpose and integrity. This recognition by the National Action Network is richly deserved.”

Under Austin-Hillery’s leadership, CBCF has expanded its leadership development pipeline, strengthened its national profile, and advanced initiatives that empower the next generation of Black public servants and changemakers.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network alongside so many leaders whose work has shaped our nation,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF. “Dr. King’s legacy challenges us not only to remember his words, but to act boldly in defense of justice, democracy, and opportunity. At CBCF, we remain committed to developing leaders who will carry that legacy forward.”

CBCF congratulates Nicole Austin-Hillery on this distinguished honor and applauds National Action Network for its continued leadership in advancing justice and equality.

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As the federal government shutdown continues, the ripple effects are being felt across communities already bearing the brunt of economic instability. For many Black families, the shutdown is not just a temporary inconvenience; it is another stark reminder of the fragility of economic security in a system where opportunity is not equally distributed. Against this backdrop, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is calling the nation’s attention to what is at stake, and what must be done.

Building Black Wealth: Policy Pathways to Economic Opportunity and Advancement is the latest installment in CBCF’s Policy for the People series. Hosted by CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR), this virtual summit will gather some of the nation’s most forward-thinking policymakers, economists, advocates, and entrepreneurs for an urgent conversation about how we move from awareness to action in closing the racial wealth gap.

Rooted in the findings of Forward Together: The Black Policy Playbook for an Equitable America, a joint initiative between CBCF and the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, this three-part virtual series builds on a shared vision: creating sustainable, long-term pathways for Black economic advancement. Each session will spotlight actionable policy solutions that can help families and communities weather economic uncertainty and secure lasting financial well-being. At its core, this virtual summit is both a continuation of this policy work and a rallying call for bold action.

When we think of the racial wealth gap in the United States, we must see it as a defining measure of how policy decisions shape lives. From inequities in the federal tax code and discriminatory housing practices to limited access to business capital, the systems meant to create opportunity often deepen the divide. Our virtual summit will explore three areas where targeted policy reforms can begin to change this trajectory: reimagining tax policy to promote wealth equity, expanding access to homeownership, and concrete investment in Black entrepreneurship.

Tax policy is a powerful lever for shaping opportunity, yet the current code too often limits it. More than half of all Black children are excluded from the full benefits of the Child Tax Credit, while Black taxpayers are disproportionately audited and less likely to benefit from employer-based retirement plans. As Congress debates the future of the nation’s fiscal priorities amid a shutdown, this conversation could not be more urgent. Equity-centered tax reform is not only about fairness, it’s about giving every American family a genuine chance to build wealth and security across generations.

Housing remains another cornerstone of prosperity. For decades, Black households have faced systemic barriers to homeownership through redlining, biased appraisals, and exclusionary zoning. These practices have left lasting scars that continue to limit wealth accumulation. But with intentional, equity-driven federal policy, housing can shift from being a barrier to being a bridge connecting families to stability, opportunity, and legacy.

Entrepreneurship, too, holds transformative potential. Black-owned businesses contribute billions to the economy each year, yet barriers to capital access persist. Recent funding cuts to programs like the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund and the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) threaten to stifle progress just as new generations of Black entrepreneurs are emerging in the digital economy. The Summit will spotlight how innovative policy design, public-private partnerships, and emerging technologies can help dismantle these barriers and open doors to sustained growth.

The conversations taking place during CBCF’s Policy for the People Economic Advancement Virtual Summit are not theoretical; they are essential to shaping an equitable future. At a time when millions of Americans face uncertainty due to the federal shutdown, policies must not only respond to crises but also build resilience that endures beyond them. The wealth gap did not appear overnight, and it will not disappear without deliberate, coordinated, and sustained action.

CBCF’s mission has always been rooted in advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. This virtual summit embodies that mission in real time, bringing together those who can shape the policies that will define the next generation of Black prosperity.

Join CBCF and a distinguished group of experts for the 2025 Policy for the People Economic Advancement Virtual Summit. Together, we can move from awareness to action, from vision to victory.

Register today at cbcfinc.org/events

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Yolanda Raine
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) mourns the passing of former U.S. Representative Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, a distinguished public servant, educator, and trailblazer whose impact continues to shape our nation and this Foundation.

Congresswoman Kilpatrick’s journey from the classrooms of Detroit to the halls of Congress embodied a lifelong commitment to service, education, and equity. A proud daughter of Detroit, she began her career as a public-school teacher before dedicating nearly two decades to the Michigan House of Representatives, where she made history as the first Black woman to serve on the powerful Michigan House Appropriations Committee. Her leadership and advocacy opened doors for countless others to follow.

Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996, Congresswoman Kilpatrick faithfully served the people of Michigan’s 15th and later the 13th Congressional Districts for 14 years. Guided by her deep commitment to economic empowerment, educational opportunity, and global engagement, she carried her passion for service from the Michigan State House to the halls of Congress. As a respected member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, she championed initiatives that strengthened communities in her beloved Detroit and expanded opportunities for underserved populations both at home and abroad.

As Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus from 2007 to 2009, she led with integrity and vision, ensuring that the voices and concerns of Black Americans were heard at the highest levels of government. Her enduring legacy also lives on through the Sojourner Truth Legacy Project, which she founded under the CBCF to honor and empower Black women leaders in public service – a program that continues to inspire generations of changemakers.

The CBCF extends our deepest condolences to her children, Ayanna and Kwame Kilpatrick, and to the entire Kilpatrick family. Congresswoman Kilpatrick’s life was a testament to purpose, perseverance, and profound love for her community. We honor her contributions and celebrate a life that uplifted so many.

May her legacy continue to guide us, and may she rest in eternal peace and power.

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About the 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.

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The Do Something! Award is a recognition presented by the National Urban League and its 92 affiliates across 37 states and the District of Columbia. It honors leaders whose commitment to service and equity exemplifies the spirit of the Urban League Movement and the essential role we all play in advancing civil rights and economic parity for Black America and other underserved communities.

With a career deeply rooted in advocacy and social justice, Nicole Austin-Hillery has made significant contributions to civil rights and public policy. Prior to her role at CBCF, she served as the Executive Director of the U.S. Program at Human Rights Watch, where she focused on issues such as criminal justice, immigration, and racial justice. She has also worked as a litigator, advocating for civil rights and equality in the workplace. Throughout her career, Austin-Hillery has been a tireless champion for marginalized communities, working to advance equity, opportunity, and justice in American society. Her leadership at CBCF continues to shape initiatives that empower Black communities and address systemic disparities.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the CBCF, I am delighted to congratulate Nicole on this well-deserved recognition,” said Rep. Terri A. Sewell, Board Chair, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “Nicole’s intentional leadership at CBCF reflects her lifelong dedication to advancing justice and equity for Black communities. This award is a testament to the impact she continues to make in building pathways toward a more equitable future.”

“I am deeply honored to receive the National Urban League’s Do Something! Award,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “The Urban League has long been a force for justice, service, and equity in our nation, and to be recognized by such a historic and vital institution is profoundly meaningful. This award reflects the collective efforts of countless individuals who are committed to creating a more just and inclusive America. At CBCF, we strive every day to amplify Black voices, dismantle systemic barriers, and build a future rooted in opportunity and progress. This recognition inspires me to continue that work with even greater resolve.”

Nicole will be honored during the reception on Friday, September 26, 2025. Please join the CBCF family in congratulating Nicole on this outstanding achievement!

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