Washington, D.C. – Leaders, policymakers, and community advocates from across the country came together for the 53rd Annual Legislative Conference, hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, to address important issues facing Black communities. Black With No Chaser played a key role by amplifying Black voices through their coverage of discussions on policy, empowerment, and social justice.
The four-day event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center focused on policy reform, economic empowerment, and social justice. Over 50 CBC members tackled issues like climate change and healthcare, showing the united strength of Black lawmakers in solving community challenges.
The theme, “Power and Policy: A Path Forward,” aimed to address ongoing issues and find actionable solutions. Attendees explored ways to advance equity and inclusion in key areas such as healthcare, education, and criminal justice reform.
Economic upliftment as a central focus
A top priority of the conference was tackling economic disparities in Black communities. Experts shared ways to build lasting wealth by supporting Black-owned businesses and encouraging entrepreneurship. Attendees stressed the need for better access to capital, improved financial literacy, and stronger corporate accountability.
“We need policies that invest in the future of Black entrepreneurs, giving them the tools and resources they need to succeed and thrive,” said Congressman Hakeem Jeffries during an economic roundtable. He emphasized the importance of bridging the wealth gap through targeted federal and state initiatives.
In addition to entrepreneurship, conversations highlighted the need to push for equitable wages, workplace protections, and career development opportunities in both private and public sectors.
Healthcare equity and access
This year’s ALC also delved into the deep-rooted disparities within the healthcare system. A series of discussions spotlighted the urgent need for reforms that address unequal access to quality healthcare for Black Americans, particularly in light of the devastating impact of COVID-19.
Medical experts and advocates called on the government to focus on health equity and improve healthcare in underserved areas. Dr. Alicia Smith highlighted the need to lower the maternal mortality rate for Black women, expand mental health services, and provide culturally sensitive care.
“Black Americans deserve access to healthcare that values their lives and their well-being, and that includes ensuring we are seen, heard, and treated with dignity,” Dr. Smith said during the healthcare panel.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who has represented Texas’ 30th District since January 2023, took part in a Project 2025 panel hosted by Beta Phi Beta and Phi Beta Sigma. The discussion centered on healthcare, specifically the potential repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) under Donald Trump’s proposed plan.
Crockett voiced concerns that ending the ACA could leave millions uninsured, warning that “Project 2025” offers no real alternative.
“Donald Trump has been pushing for the end of the Affordable Care Act for years, but every time you ask him for a plan, he doesn’t have one,” Crockett said. “In fact, in the debate, he stated that he has a ‘concept of a plan.’ But we know what Project 2025 actually lays out. And if that’s his concept of a plan, it is nothing good.”
A renewed call for voting rights protections
Voting rights and the defense of democracy were at the forefront of the conference’s agenda, with calls to action from lawmakers and civil rights activists. In light of increasing threats to voting access, particularly in Black and minority communities, participants discussed the need for stronger federal protections to ensure all Americans have equal access to the ballot box.
Activists at the conference raised concerns over state-level efforts to limit voting through legislation that disproportionately affects Black voters. Many stressed the importance of continued grassroots efforts and federal intervention to restore key provisions of the Voting Rights Act.
“Our fight for voting rights is the fight to preserve our democracy. We cannot rest until every voice is heard, and every vote is counted,” said Congresswoman Maxine Waters, calling for swift action to pass voting rights protections in Congress.
Future of collegiate sports and NIL with Nick Saban
Alabama football coach Nick Saban, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, and SWAC Commissioner Dr. Charles McClelland hosted a panel on the future of college sports and NIL deals. They discussed how NIL agreements are giving student-athletes new ways to profit from their brands but also raised concerns about fair rules and competition. McClelland highlighted that NIL offers both challenges and opportunities for HBCUs. He stressed the importance of using NIL to attract talent, boost visibility, and ensure athletes have the right support to handle these deals.
Saban discussed the need to make sure that opportunities for non-revenue college athletics are also supported.
” I certainly believe college players should be compensated for what they do. But It is really important that when we revenue share we also look at how can we continue to create opportunities for non-revenue sports. We don’t need to take all the money in revenue sharing and then not have enough money to support the other students. It is a tricky combination. NIL should still be available to players but it should not be booster induced,” Saban told the audience.
Saban also touched on his life after coaching
“I do enjoy college gameday. It keeps me involved in the game and I love that. I certainly hope I can continue to have some impact on the future of what college football and athletics become.”
Justice reform on the agenda
Reform of the criminal justice system was another major focus, with panels addressing the need to end mass incarceration, reform sentencing laws, and establish police accountability measures. Participants urged lawmakers to take a comprehensive approach to dismantling structural racism within the criminal justice system.
Activists and legal experts pointed to the disproportionate impact of the criminal justice system on Black youth, who are often funneled into the system at early ages through over-policing in schools and communities. Conversations about ending the school-to-prison pipeline underscored the need for policies that prioritize restorative justice and rehabilitation.
“The criminal justice system has been used as a tool to oppress, and we need real, systemic changes to ensure our communities are protected, not targeted,” said civil rights attorney Angela Jones during a session focused on youth justice reform.
Next steps for change
As the ALC came to a close, speakers and attendees emphasized the need to move their powerful conversations into real action. The CBCF’s mission of advancing Black equity and empowerment remains steady, with calls for continued advocacy, legislative change, and community-driven solutions.
“This is not just about having a conversation. It’s about setting a course for real, meaningful change,” said CBCF Chairwoman Joyce Beatty in her closing remarks. “We have the power to influence policies that improve the lives of millions. Now is the time to act.”
During the Phoenix Awards hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris urged attendees to support their vision for the future ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Biden emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing critical issues such as voting rights and economic equity, stating, “We’re fighting for the soul of our nation.” Vice President Harris echoed this sentiment, calling on the caucus to continue advocating for policies that uplift Black communities, saying, “This is about the strength of our democracy.” Both leaders highlighted the importance of unity and action in the upcoming election.
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,” Harris said.