Since its start in 2020, the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice (NREI), created by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), has been on a  mission to advance equality and drive lasting change. Centering the interconnected relationships between a number of policy areas, NREI has created programming that brings together the public, policymakers, and community stakeholders nationwide to drive progress toward social justice. To mark its fifth anniversary, NREI convened in New Orleans, Louisiana, on November 1 for a special gathering with Congressman Troy Carter.

New Orleans is known as a culturally rich and vibrant city, celebrated for its deep musical heritage, distinctive cuisine, and historic architecture. Beneath its beauty lies a complex history shaped by struggle. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address the social and structural inequities that the disaster laid bare, including barriers to voting, disproportionate damage in Black neighborhoods, and long-term impacts on residents’ mental health. This anniversary also offers a poignant moment to reflect on the city’s capacity for recovery and resilience. Beyond the tragedy, New Orleans is widely admired for its resilience and deep sense of community. That same spirit of resilience and community shaped the conversations that unfolded during this year’s NREI Summit, which focused on two deeply connected policy areas — criminal justice and education.

Schools serve as a critical entry point into opportunity, but for many students, schools are an entry point into the criminal justice system. CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis & Research (CPAR) released a 2023 report “Decriminalizing School Misbehavior: Alternatives to School Referrals and Arrests,” which found that Black and other marginalized students are disproportionately subjected to exclusionary discipline and school-based arrests for behaviors that could be addressed within schools. These findings underscore how early criminalization in education feeds into the larger prison industrial complex—revealing that to truly address mass incarceration, we must begin by transforming the systems that shape young people’s earliest experiences of discipline and justice.

The Summit began with a powerful Fireside Chat between Congressman Troy Carter and CBCF President & CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery, exploring the realities of the prison workforce and the urgent need for reform rooted in human dignity and economic justice. Session 1, From Classroom to Cellblock: Unpacking the Pipeline to Prison Labor, took a deeper look at how school discipline practices and systemic inequities push Black youth from classrooms into incarceration — fueling a cycle of racialized labor exploitation. The conversation challenged participants to reimagine both education and justice through equitable, community-driven reform. Rounding out the day, Session 2, Voices of New Orleans: A Conversation on Local Issues, centered community perspectives through a participatory dialogue on the city’s most pressing challenges — from housing and safety to economic opportunity and resilience — highlighting the power of collective voice in shaping a more inclusive future. The Summit also featured interactive breakout sessions, including select interviews from the Visiting Room Project, offering a rare and humanizing opportunity to hear directly from incarcerated individuals about their experiences. The sessions amplified the voices of those too often silenced, and an unflinching examination of systems that demand change and a vision for how research, policy, and community can unite to drive it. As NREI turns five, this year’s Summit reminded us that progress is both a reflection and a responsibility — to challenge inequities, champion unheard voices, and continue shaping a future grounded in true justice.

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ATLANTA – This weekend, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice hosted its Community Conversation to convene legislators, policymakers, activists, and community members to address the critical issues surrounding voting rights and representation in America. Recognizing the pivotal role of voting in democratic governance, the gathering discussed historical and present-day challenges and systemic barriers that have impeded marginalized communities’ access to the ballot box.

“As part of our mission to inform policy and educate the public, we established Community Conversations to tackle systemic racism through strategic partnerships and community dialogues,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the CBCF. “Today’s Atlanta Community Conversation explores the ongoing quest for equitable voting rights and representation in America. We always aim to identify actionable solutions that address the historical and contemporary challenges disproportionately affecting marginalized communities.”

“The CBCF is in Georgia to highlight the challenges we face as we move toward the 2024 election,” said Congressman Hank Johnson. “It’s a good time to educate people about the effects of voter suppression in Georgia, and the impact it’s having on our ability to exercise our fundamental right to vote.”

Through the onsite voting and activism fair, attendees engaged with social justice and voting activists, and leaders of community organizations to discover their impactful work, gain insights into pressing issues, and explore ways to join the movement for social justice and voting rights reform. The event also featured in-depth content sessions. Highlights from the sessions included:

Unmasking Voter Suppression: Gerrymandering and the Shadow of Political Violence Against Black Communities

• In southern states like Georgia, gerrymandering and voter suppression significantly undermine Black communities’ political representation and influence, continuing a legacy of political violence and discrimination.
• “Gerrymandering undermines our democracy. It confines our power to specific districts, hindering our ability to gain the necessary support for our communities. We cannot allow elected officials to seek our votes only during election season. We need competitive races to ensure diverse representation that supports our communities’ growth and well-being. By showing up in record numbers, like in 2020 and 2022, we can make a difference and counteract any barriers. Stay engaged, think creatively, and hold our elected officials accountable. Know who’s running, understand their platforms, and demand they deliver on their promises.” – Helen Butler, Executive Director, Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda
• “Voter suppression in the form of gerrymandering is a deliberate attempt to dilute Black political power. It’s part of a broader strategy that includes the shadow of political violence against our communities. We must unmask these tactics and confront them head-on. By staying informed and mobilized, we can safeguard our voting rights and ensure that our voices are heard. Our collective strength lies in our unity and our unwavering commitment to justice and equality.” – Cliff Albright, Executive Director, Black Voters Matter

Unlocking the Ballot Box: Restoring Voting Rights Through Criminal Justice Reform

• As of 2023, only Maine, Vermont, and Washington, D.C., allow individuals with felony convictions to vote, yet by 2024, more than 5.8 million Americans—40% of whom are Black—will be disenfranchised, prompting calls for criminal justice reform and highlighting the role of voting in rehabilitation and community engagement.
• “The 14th Amendment of the Constitution says anyone born in the United States is a citizen, and that all citizens have the right to vote. Being incarcerated does not end your citizenship. Crime is just another way to ‘other’ people and to create division. I encourage everyone to join the fight by exercising your right to vote–in the name of someone else who can’t.” – Kareemah Hanifa, Lead Community Organizer, IMAN Atlanta
• “No one should ever lose their right to vote. As community organizers, we must do more than petition for policy changes; it’s also about care for the community. And we can start by changing the narrative and replacing the term “felons” with people-first language.” – John Paul Taylor, Senior Campaign Strategist-Rights Restoration, Advancement Project

Uncovering Technology’s Impact on Future Elections and Civic Engagement

• Technology and media are powerful forces shaping Black community civic engagement, enabling online activism that translates to real-world action, yet also posing challenges like misinformation, as seen in a 2020 viral video discouraging Black voting; panelists will explore technology’s dual role in influencing elections and civic participation, and strategies to combat disinformation and enhance democratic engagement.
• “The pandemic forced everyone to use social media and internet. Now, the challenge is people who weren’t typically engaged are now receiving information from sources they can’t verify. Now more than ever, the role that community organizations play in protecting against disinformation can’t be understated.” – Jeanine Abrams McLean, President, Fair Count
• “There’s misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. And we need multiple types of resources to conquer it all. From technology and policy to regulation and trusted messengers in our communities, we must use what’s available to us to fight disinformation. With the proliferation of AI, the role of trusted messengers becomes even more important to combat the spreading of bad information.” – Esosa Osa, Founder and CEO, Onyx Impact

To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, visit cbcfinc.org.

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About 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. 

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Washington, D.C. – The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) proudly announces the appointment of six members to serve as the new Ambassadors for the National Racial Equity Initiative (NREI) Task Force for Social Justice. Committed to advancing the legacy of civil rights icon John R. Lewis, these Ambassadors will play a pivotal role in challenging racial injustice and advancing racial equity nationwide through engagement with research, policy issues, programming, and community-based solutions relevant to the Black community.

In welcoming the new cohort of Ambassadors, CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery said, “As we continue to honor the legacy of Congressman John R. Lewis, it is essential that we amplify the voices and efforts of individuals dedicated to advancing racial equity and justice. These appointments underscore our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”

From healthcare and matters of intersectionality, to systemic injustice, representation in storytelling, and criminal justice reform, the new NREI Task Force for Social Justice Ambassadors bring unique insights and perspectives to a program that encourages collective action to elevate the Black community.

The newly appointed NREI Task Force for Social Justice Ambassadors are:

• Dr. Uché Blackstock, Best-selling Author and Founder and CEO, Advancing Health Equity: A prominent advocate for health equity, Dr. Blackstock brings invaluable expertise in addressing racial disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. She recently published her memoir, “LEGACY: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine,” which became an instant New York Times bestseller.

• Darrell Booker, Corporate Affairs Specialist and Racial Equity Tech Lead, Microsoft: A seasoned leader in Microsoft’s Philanthropy division, Mr. Booker is celebrated for his pivotal role in spearheading the Nonprofit Tech Acceleration for Black and African American Communities initiative.

• Dr. Kimberlé Crenshaw, Co-Founder and Executive Director, African American Policy Forum: A distinguished scholar and pioneering legal theorist, Dr. Crenshaw is renowned for her groundbreaking work on intersectionality, illuminating the complex ways in which race, gender, and other identities intersect to shape individuals’ experiences and opportunities.

• Marley Dias, Activist, Author, Producer, and Creator: Recognized for her #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, Ms. Dias is a trailblazing advocate for diverse representation in literature, inspiring young readers worldwide to embrace their identities and stories. As an author, speaker, and advocate, Marley continues to inspire change, leveraging partnerships and her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.

• Tylik McMillan, Social Justice Leader and Movement Strategist: A prominent voice in civic engagement, Mr. McMillan is committed to empowering and advocating for social and economic equality, amplifying the voices of young people in the fight against systemic injustice.

• Robert Rooks, CEO, REFORM Alliance: With a lifelong commitment to criminal justice reform and community empowerment, Mr. Rooks has been instrumental in advocating for policies that address the root causes of systemic inequities and promote rehabilitation over punishment.

Emphasizing the significance of the Task Force’s impact, NREI Senior Director Olajumoke Obayanju added, “The NREI Task Force Ambassadors represent a diverse array of perspectives and expertise, reflecting the complexity of the challenges we face in achieving racial equity. Their collective leadership across multidisciplinary and intergenerational platforms will be instrumental in driving forward the critical work of the NREI and inspiring positive change to further empower communities across the country.”

NREI Task Force for Social Justice Ambassadors serve for two years.

For more information about the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice, please visit www.cbcfinc.org.

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As National Women’s Health Week unfolds, it’s imperative to shine a spotlight on the enduring healthcare disparities that disproportionately impact Black women. It’s crucial to recognize the distinct challenges Black women face in healthcare and advocate for systemic reforms that prioritize health equity.

Despite strides in medicine, Black women persistently grapple with alarming rates of chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and various cancers. Cardiovascular diseases alone kill more than 50,000 Black women annually.  Maternal mortality rates among Black women persist at 3 to 4 times the rate of white women, highlighting a profound disparity in maternal healthcare. Additionally, Black women are 3 times more likely to have fibroids than white women.

These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the specific healthcare needs of Black women and ensure equitable access to healthcare services.

Black women’s voices are often silenced, their concerns dismissed, and their health outcomes disregarded. In healthcare interactions, 71% of Black women aged 18 to 49 and 54% of Black women 50 and older report experiencing at least one negative encounter with a healthcare provider. At the heart of these disparities lies a disturbing truth: systemic racism and historical injustices have woven a tapestry of inequity that disproportionately burdens Black women.

For far too long, Black women have borne the brunt of healthcare disparities, facing barriers at every turn that hinder their access to quality care. These barriers are not isolated incidents but are deeply rooted in systemic racism, a pervasive force that infiltrates every facet of society, including healthcare systems. Historical injustices, from the exploitation of Black bodies for medical experimentation to the denial of basic reproductive rights, have left a lasting imprint, shaping the healthcare experiences of Black women today. Moreover, the intersectionality of race, gender, and socioeconomic status compounds the challenges faced by Black women and further exacerbates disparities in access to care, treatment options, and health outcomes.

To confront these injustices, we must first acknowledge the role of systemic racism and historical injustices in shaping healthcare disparities. We must challenge the status quo by advocating for policies and practices that prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion within healthcare systems. This requires not just superficial changes but a fundamental shift in the way policymakers approach healthcare, centering the voices and experiences of those most marginalized. Healthcare providers must undergo anti-racism training and cultural competency education to better understand and address the unique needs of Black women. Representation matters, both in leadership roles within healthcare institutions and in research and clinical trials, to ensure that healthcare decisions are informed by diverse perspectives. Community-driven initiatives and grassroots organizations are crucial in bridging the gap in healthcare access and advocating for the rights of Black women. By amplifying the voices of Black women and supporting their efforts, we can strive towards a future where every Black woman receives the care, respect, and dignity she deserves.

May we continue to confront these injustices head-on and pave the way for a healthcare system that truly prioritizes equity and justice for all.

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In the ongoing fight for social justice, the 2023 National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice’s (NREI) Summit serves as a powerful platform for crucial discussions to inspire, educate, and mobilize our communities and organizations. This year, we are excited to delve into three pressing issues: protecting the Black vote, preserving Black history, and banned books, and corporations’ roles in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). These issues faced by the Black community are not distant challenges but woven into our daily experiences, our dreams for our children, and our hopes for achieving a more equitable future.

This NREI Summit is not just an event but a pivotal convergence of elected officials, emerging leaders, activists, and community members to engage in conversations that intentionally examine the critical social justice issues that systemically and uniquely impact the Black community.

Protecting the Black Vote: The Road to 2024

In the wake of the upcoming 2024 Presidential election, Black Americans—having faced voter suppression and disenfranchisement historically—still encounter systemic barriers to equally exercise their right to vote. Despite hard-won victories in the past, contemporary challenges such as restrictive voter ID laws, gerrymandering, and reduced access to polling stations disproportionately affect the Black community. During the Summit, we will address current voting challenges and present solutions to ensure that Black Americans can fully participate in our nation’s democratic process as well as have their voices heard in shaping the nation’s future. Don’t miss the chance to be at the forefront of a pivotal movement to secure the future of voting rights for the Black community.   

Upholding the Truth: Preserving African American History for a Better Tomorrow

The significance of convening at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, D.C.is not lost on us. It is crucial to address the ongoing fight against the banning of books by LGBTQ+ and authors of color, as well as the efforts against teaching the true history of Black Americans and this country’s legacy of racism. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) understands the importance of upholding the democratic ideal of freedom of speech, fostering different ideas in the marketplace, and reclaiming our nation’s commitment to education. Make sure to attend this vital dialogue to be a part of a movement to protect the legacy of marginalized voices and our history in society.

Corporations As Social Justice Change Agents? Unpacking Corporate Pledges to DEIA Initiatives and the Road Ahead

Corporations play a crucial role in upholding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility for the advancement of the Black community—a duty that goes beyond mere compliance but involves actively fostering an inclusive workplace culture, promoting equal opportunities, and addressing systemic biases. Corporations can also play a significant role as change agents by championing social justice and DEIA initiatives that recognize the value of a diverse workforce, reflected at all levels of an organization. We hope that you will join us for this important conversation about reshaping our societal norms and exploring best practices to advance racial equity.

You will also not want to miss the networking lunch and interactive breakout rooms which will offer a refreshing break from the large group sessions. In these engaging and dynamic spaces, participants can explore the banned work of influential Black authors, enjoy snippets from Black documentaries, discover Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)/ Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) best practices in the gallery room, and learn about state and federal voting laws through trivia.   Join us virtually or in-person on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 9:30 am to 3 pm EST to be a part of this collaborative environment where you can participate in vital discussions concerning the Black community, problem-solve, coalition-build, and be a part of the change-makers shaping our world.

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