The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) 53rd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) is set to kick off Wednesday with a dynamic lineup of events and sessions that highlight critical issues affecting the Black community.
This year’s ALC (Sept. 11-15) promises to bring together policymakers, thought leaders, activists, and the public for meaningful discussions, networking, and community building at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
Before the conference officially kicked off, CBCF announced that Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee and a former member of the Congressional Black Caucus, is confirmed to attend the ALC’s Phoenix Awards Dinner Saturday night.
Day one of the conference features several key sessions:
- 11 a.m. ET – Health Equity Session: Focused on “Empowering Black Fathers to be Allies for Black Maternal Health,” this session will take place in Room 201. It is a timely discussion aimed at addressing disparities in maternal health.
- 11 a.m. ET – CBC Member HBCU Session: Titled “Rising from the Burning Sands: Giving Magnitude to the Moment,” this session in Ballroom A will explore the evolving role of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in shaping future generations.
- 11:30 a.m. ET – Opening Press Conference: Join the CBCF and CBC leadership at the Exhibit Hall Main Stage for the official opening press conference, offering insights into the goals and themes of this year’s conference.
- Noon ET – Exhibit Hall Block Party: The Exhibit Hall in Hall D will come alive with music from 5’9″, the return of the ALC Fashion Show, and lunch offerings. This free event is a great opportunity to network and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the conference.
- 1 p.m. ET – Tech Equity Session: In Room 201, a crucial session titled “From 2020 to 2024: Addressing the Impacts of Technology on the Election” will dive into how tech has shaped electoral processes and what lies ahead.
- 1 p.m. ET – Third-Party HIV Awareness Session: In Room 206, participants will discuss “Champions of Change: Bridging and Empowering Generations in HIV Prevention and Awareness,” focusing on cross-generational HIV prevention efforts.
- 3 p.m. ET – Civic Engagement Session: The session, “Building Power: Black Youth from Protest to Policy,” in Room 201 will cover the rise of Black youth activism and its transition into meaningful policy changes.
- 3 p.m. ET – Third-Party Breast Cancer Session: In Room 206, experts will address “Expanding the Reach of Patient Navigation Services for Breast Cancer in the Black Community,” discussing ways to enhance healthcare access for Black women.
- 8 p.m. ET – Alumni Network Reception: CBCF alumni, including scholarship, internship, and fellowship participants, will reconnect in Ballroom B, with a special surprise performance in store.
With a packed agenda and sessions designed to address pressing topics, the first day of the ALC sets the stage for an impactful and productive conference. Attendees are encouraged to visit the Exhibit Hall, enjoy the sessions, and make lasting connections throughout the day.