Executive Summary
This 2023 Annual Report provides an overview of the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice (NREI) to capture our progress on priorities since 2022.
This 2023 Annual Report provides an overview of the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice (NREI) to capture our progress on priorities since 2022. The NREI was established in late 2020 in direct response to the murder of George Floyd, which prompted protests nationally over the reliving of, yet another African American killed by police. Though the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF), for years, has prioritized advancing the global Black community, the NREI was founded as CBCF’s pledge to bolster its work in advancing racial justice, combating systemic injustice, and increasing economic development opportunities for the Black community. George Floyd’s murder exemplified the structural barriers and systemic racism that continue to pervade our societal constructs, from the criminal legal system and our court system to healthcare and education systems. His death also inspired—and more appropriately ignited—a force of political, financial, and grassroots mobilization around social justice and racial equity.
In its third operating year, the NREI has accomplished the following to Remove Financial Barriers
for Black Students attending Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs), Advance Social Justice Policy through research and programming, Create a Pipeline for young Black leaders, and Empower Action-Driven Change:
1. Hosted and placed 7 full-time fellows on Capitol Hill and the Foundation through our John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship.
2. Awarded $200,000 to 20 undergraduate and graduate level scholars attending 13 HBCUs across the nation.
3. Published 21 NREI research deliverables , nearly doubling the output from the previous year. Topics included the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act & Black America , access to behavioral and mental health services for youth , eliminating reentry barriers for returning citizens , and more.
4. Hosted informative and policy-informed programming, including four virtual “Live with the Task Force” discussions on CBCF social media platforms, an in-person Community Conversation in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Annual NREI Summit, and the NREI Annual Legislative Conference Panel.
As the NREI enters its fourth year of operations, we look forward with enthusiasm to the impactful work that awaits us in 2024.
Overview: National Racial Equity Initiative For Social Justice
The NREI’s mission is to combat systemic injustice and advance racial equity, human rights, education, and economic development opportunities for the Black community.
The NREI’s mission is to combat systemic injustice and advance racial equity, human rights, education, and economic development opportunities for the Black community. Housed in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR), the NREI takes an evidence-based approach to develop sound policies targeted to reducing racial disparities caused by racism and discrimination. The NREI provides solutions-driven and proactive policies and practices that produce equitable access, opportunities, treatment, and outcomes for African
Operations Updates
On June 5, 2023, CBCF welcomed its new Vice President of CPAR, Dr. Jonathan Cox. Prior to joining CBCF, Jonathan was an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Central Florida. His research focuses on racial and social inequalities, primarily studying the impacts of racism in the United States. His work has been featured in numerous academic journals, focusing on topics such as racial and ethnic
Americans. Recognizing that combating systemic racism can be achieved through various avenues, the NREI framework supports the CBCF’s organizational mission of developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. The NREI includes social justice fellows, social justice scholarships for HBCU students, a task force, and research, data, and public policy related to social justice reform for maximum impact in Black communities. The scope of work for the NREI involves measurable deliverables and activism that shape the foundation of NREI’s establishment, operational trajectory, and research policy.
identities, racial ideologies, the experiences of college students, diversity and inclusion in corporate America, and health-related discrimination and racial disparities affecting Black Americans.
In September 2023, NREI Senior Program Manager, Solomon Ayalew, resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities. We thank him for his two-year service to CBCF.
I. HBCU Social Justice Scholarships
he HBCU Social Justice Scholarships were created to encourage and support the next generation of social justice leaders committed to advancing equity, freedom, and justice for all, especially the Black community. The scholarships ameliorate the economic hardships, particularly, experienced by HBCU students committed to social justice work, with the hopes of removing financial barriers and expanding future opportunities and access to success. The funds
are disbursed on an annual, one-time basis to undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral level students attending Historically Black Colleges or Universities, pursuing studies related to social justice to include, but not limited to, criminal justice, education, civil rights, or community/economic development. Students must demonstrate their interests and experience in social justice, student activism, and/ or community service.
represented
Alcorn State University
Fisk University
Fort Valley State University
Howard University
Morehouse School of Medicine
Morgan State University
Meharry Medical College
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
North Carolina Central University
Prairie View A&M University
Savannah State University
Spelman College
University of Maryland
Eastern Shore
3
II. John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship Program
The John R. Lewis Social Justice Policy Fellowship is designed to give young, Black professionals the opportunity to work in Congress and with the Foundation to address social justice and racial equity issues that affect the Black community. Distinguished by two six-month rotations, Social Justice Fellows are placed in the U.S. Congress with Congressional Black Caucus members and the CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR) for a total of 12 months. Fellows produce social justice policy research and analysis on topics that include, but are not limited to, criminal justice reform, education, community/economic development, health equity, and civil rights. While working in Congressional Black Caucus member offices, Fellows gain invaluable legislative experience as they engage in the development of public policy initiatives, attend briefings, conduct research, write speeches, and develop rapport with key leaders, all in the areas of social justice. In the Center for Policy Analysis and Research, Fellows work under the NREI Director and in cooperation with other stakeholders to conduct policy analysis, research, and data collection. During their term, Fellows also organize social justice forums and brain trusts, serve as an expert in their field, and produce issue briefs, fact sheets, and other publications related to social justice.
September 2023 Cohort applications received Fellowships awarded 51 7 Applicants awarded 14% 2023–2024 Fellowship Cycle
In January 2023 and September 2023, the NREI welcomed seven new policy professionals to the John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship Program. This cohort of fellows are an interdisciplinary group of young professionals from across the country representing a variety of interest areas and policy expertise .
January 2023–December 2023
Fellow
September
Dr. Olwatosin Oyadiran
Congressional Placement: Rep. Terri A. Sewell
Interests: Health Equity
Sponsor: Amgen
2023–September
2024 Fellows
Danielle Browne
Congressional Placement: House Committee on Agriculture
Interests: Food Security, Nutrition, Agriculture, Environment, and Cannabis
Sponsor: Scotts Miracle Gro
Brelynn Hunt
Congressional Placement: Rep. Robin Kelly
Interests: Maternal and Infant Health, Mental Health, and Clinical Trial Diversity
Sponsor: Amgen
Dr. Ja’Lia Taylor
Congressional Placement: Rep. Frederica Wilson
Interests: Rural Areas, Technology, and Education
Sponsor: IBM
Leyana Casey
Congressional Placement: Rep. Joe Neguse
Interests: Health Equity, Social Determinants of Health, Access to Care, Emergency Preparedness and Mitigation, Environmental Health
Sponsor: Scotts Miracle Gro
Dr. Taylor Robinson
Congressional Placement: TX-18 (formerly Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee)
Interests: Criminal Justice Reform, Victim Advocacy
Sponsor: Casey Family Programs
Samantha Wilkerson
Congressional Placement: House Committee on Education and the Workforce
Interests: Education, Tax, Foreign Affairs, Health Equity, Gender Equity
Sponsor: Prudential Financial
Fellow Capstone Projects
The Capstone is the culmination of the Fellowship experience that allows each Fellow to demonstrate their mastery of a specific topic and the Fellow’s research and analytical skills. The Capstone incorporates concepts, techniques and skills learned throughout the Fellowship experience,
through which Fellows can make original scholarly, professional contributions to their field. The final publication addresses a key policy/issue within the NREI priorities: Criminal Justice Reform; Education; Health Equity and Economic Opportunity. Past Capstone’s can be found here
2023 NREI Fellows’ Capstone Topics include:
• Danielle Browne
From Slavery to Sovereignty: The Economic Importance of the Justice for Black Farmers Act
• Leyana Casey, MPH
Fields of Opportunity: Exploring the Intersection of Urban Farming and AI Solutions for Food Insecurities in Black Communities
• Brelynn Hunt, M.H.S, M.Phys.
Healing Hands: Amplifying Black Healthcare Provider’s Impact on America’s Maternal Mortality Crisis
• Oluwatosin Oyadiran, M.D., MPH
Antimicrobial Resistance in Black America: Unveiling a Looming Public Health Crisis
• Taylor Robinson, Ph.D.
Environmental Victimization: Lived Experiences of Black Residents Residing Near Oil/Gas and Petrochemical Refineries
• Ja’Lia Taylor, Ph.D.
The Forgotten People: Honoring the Voices of Black Rural Americans
• Samantha Wilkerson, M.Ed.
Exploring the Nexus of Property Taxes, Housing Disparities and Educational Access for Black and Brown Youth in Major U.S. Cities
The CBCF Fellows Virtual Closing Presentation took place on December 18, 2023, and August 28, 2024, where Fellows discussed their research, as well as their Fellowship experience and accomplishments.
2023 NREI Fellows’ Testimonials
I sat counsel at a hearing that discussed immigrant students in schools. I was also able to be the lead on two bills addressing foreign influence in schools during a 9-bill markup and I was able to present my work at a member briefing with all the Democratic members of the committee.”
SAMANTHA WILKERSON
2023 NREI Fellow, House Committee on Education and the Workforce
I enjoyed my fellowship experience. I gained new skills and built upon old skills (i.e. improved my writing, gained legislative experience, program planning, and enhanced my networking skills). Representative Neguse’s placement was amazing, and I really think it was the best placement for me. The office staff was amazing, and they were open to my ideas and let me work on legislative and programmatic projects. They also were a big advocate for me.”
LEYANA CASEY
2023 NREI Fellow, Rep. Joe Neguse
I enjoyed both portions of my Fellowship—my congressional office gave me much needed exposure to the legislative process where I worked with appropriations and reviewed/edited bills. Working with NREI was phenomenal, as I contributed to health equity research and events (ALC, summits). I also traveled for the community conversation in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Faith and Politics in Alabama.”
OLUWATOSIN OYADIRAN
2023 NREI Fellow, Rep. Terri A. Sewell
III. Policy Research
ver the past year, NREI research has conscientiously worked toward enhancing social justice reform through a comprehensive approach. Our primary focus areas—Criminal Justice Reform, Education, Health Equity, and Economic Opportunity—have shaped
Oour initiatives, ensuring our research effectively addresses the urgent needs of our communities. We are excited to share that this year we’ve reached a significant milestone with the release of 21 publications, the highest number since our founding.
2023 Research Publications
Criminal Justice:
Decriminalizing School Misbehavior: Alternatives to School Referrals and Arrests:
Like suspensions and expulsions, the harmful impact of student referrals and arrests cannot be overstated. This report examines the progress made in recent years and recommends school discipline policies that support students at school, improve public safety, and reduce systemic disparities.
Eliminating Barriers to Reentry for Returning Citizens: A 50 State Examination of Reentry Practices: This case study examines barriers returning citizens encounter, current state and federal reentry practices/legislation, and policy solutions to ensure returning citizens adequately acclimate to their communities.
George Floyd: Three Years Later, The Work Remains Blogpost: This blog post reflects on the legacy of George Floyd’s murder and the ongoing fight for racial justice in the U.S. It highlights recent legislative progress in police reform while acknowledging the persistent violence and systemic racism affecting Black Americans. The author calls for continued advocacy and emphasizes the work of the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice in addressing these issues.
The Clean Slate Act: A Pathway to Criminal Justice Reform: This brief examines The Clean Slate Act, a bipartisan federal bill, and its potential to offer a second chance to Americans with low-level, nonviolent federal convictions.
Economic Opportunity:
Exploring Expanded Protections for Black Working Mothers: This fact sheet provides an overview of the effects of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) and the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) for Nursing Mothers Act on Black working mothers and offers actionable recommendations for improving their health outcomes.
Perpetual Punishment: SNAP and TANF Case Study: This study examines the current landscape of SNAP and TANF benefits for people with prior felony drug convictions, assesses the impact of the state-level bans, and offers policy recommendations on changes to eliminate the ban and other barriers faced by formerly incarcerated people.
The MORE Act: A Comprehensive Guide to Economic Benefits: This policy brief assesses the economic benefits of passing the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act of 2020 and its importance for the African American community.
Education:
Deconstructing
Deconstructing Misconceptions: Critical Race Theory: This report explores the debate over Critical Race Theory (CRT) happening across the country by revealing and disputing misconceptions.
Federal Legislative Solutions to Curb Qualified Immunity for School Resource Officers and Other School Officials: This report examines the inconsistent application of qualified immunity doctrine in courts around the country and how it impacts Black children— often leaving them vulnerable to having their constitutional rights violated in schools without recourse.
Preserving the Integrity of American Education: This policy brief offers a concise overview of the historical context that necessitates its creation, the essential aspects, and details of H.Res. 615: Condemning Revisionist Education and Revisionist History in Relation to the African American Experience, and its role in rectifying historical accuracy and fostering racial equity within the realm of education.
Behavioral and Mental Health: A National Crisis Impacting Black Youth: This policy brief explores trends linked to Black youth’s behavioral and mental health, current efforts to expand behavioral and mental health services, and ways to continue expanding services.
CMS Innovation Models, A Starting Point to Addressing Racial Bias in Healthcare: Implicit bias has prevented Black Americans from benefiting from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMS or CMMI)’s objective to enhance care quality. This op-ed outlines the current CMS system and provides recommendations to address racial bias in healthcare.
Safeguarding Disability Benefits as the Debt Ceiling Falls: This fact sheet examines the role of the Executive Branch, Congress, and the community in implementing preventive measures toward economic security.
Social Media, Misinformation, and Medical Mistrust in the Black Community: This policy brief explores the relationship between mistrust and misinformation, then examines the central role of social media in spreading misinformation. It concludes with policy recommendations for establishing trust in public health communications.
The End of Medicaid’s Continuous Enrollment Provision and Its Impact on the Black Community: This policy brief discusses how the unwinding of Medicaid’s COVID-19 continuous enrollment provision detrimentally impacts Medicaid enrollees, providers of managed care plans, and the states that operate these programs, disproportionately affecting Black communities.
The Power of Rest: Examining the Racial Disparities of Sleep and its Connections to Black Health Outcomes: Sleep plays a critical role in helping our bodies recover from the day and prepare for the next. This publication explores the systemic barriers impacting Black sleep health and how policymakers can help.
Miscellaneous:
Understanding the White House Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis: This policy brief examines the Biden-Harris Administration’s substantial financial commitment toward the maternal health crisis, provides an overview of the extensive repercussions of the maternal health crisis, and offers a detailed analysis of the strategies proposed.
Actualizing Internet for All: Exploring Federal Solutions to the Digital Divide: Today, despite the growing importance of reliable high-speed internet access, or “broadband,” a substantial number of communities across the nation—namely low-income, elderly, urban, rural, and tribal communities—do not have adequate access to the internet. In fact, as of 2021, more than 42 million Americans did not have the ability to purchase broadband internet.
Corporate Social Responsibility Guide: As companies seek ways to address systemic and social injustice beyond a reactionary response, CBCF introduces this CSR and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) guide to offer forward-thinking, racially progressive strategies and best practices that will create earnest value and impact for all Black stakeholders.
Safeguarding Democracy Op-Ed: This op-ed discusses the strong belief in democracy among most Americans, especially younger generations, as evidenced by recent midterm elections. However, it also highlights the troubling rise of violent rhetoric, electoral denial, and the spread of unreliable information that currently permeates our political landscape.
Voting Rights on Trial: The Future of Redistricting and Representation in the U.S.: This policy brief assesses the current voting rights landscape and provides a contextual overview of the events that have led to the current voting rights crisis and the consequences for Black Americans.
IV. Task Force of Social Justice Ambassadors
he NREI Task Force of Social Justice Ambassadors is a cohort of individuals committed to challenging racial injustice and advancing racial equity and social justice reform. Using their platforms, Ambassadors work in collaboration with NREI to disseminate research and information, advance policy and communitybased solutions, develop relevant programming,
share best practices, and raise awareness through media and mass movements for change with attention to youth activism, community organizing, and grassroots mobilization. The inaugural Task Force launched in February 2022, and they completed their service in December 2023. We look forward to welcoming a second cohort in the Spring of 2024.
Task Force Goals
Push policy that compels action by lawmakers to end systemic inequality and racism and advances community-based solutions.
Disseminate research and information to the public, expanding legislative knowledge and promoting civic engagement.
Partner with NREI leadership to develop relevant programming that advances the NREI mission.
Utilize their power and platforms to equip young leaders and community members and serve as champions for change.
Presentations & Programs
Live With the Task Force
The NREI launched its “Live with the Task Force” Instagram Live sessions this year. These sessions included our NREI Task Force Ambassadors, who discussed the various research deliverables produced by NREI Fellows and Staff.
On Thursday, April 6, 2023, the NREI hosted its first Live with the Task Force session featuring the President of the Center for Urban and Racial Equity and NREI Ambassador, Dr. Judy Lubin and NREI Senior Program Manager, Solomon Ayalew. During the live session, the two discussed the CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research Report: The Power of Rest : Examining the Racial Disparities of Sleep and its Connections to Black Health Outcomes which explores the critical role sleep plays in our bodies’ ability to function and the systemic barriers that impact Black sleep health. Watch here
TOTAL ATTENDEES: 10
PEAK CONCURRENT VIEWERS: 20
COMMENTS: 21
REPLAYS: 596
On Thursday, May 18, 2023, the NREI hosted its second Live with the Task Force session featuring co-founder of Black Voters Matter Fund and NREI Ambassador, LaTosha Brown and NREI John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellow, Abou Bakri Sy. During the live session, the two discussed the NREI Op-Ed Safeguarding Our Democracy . The conversation centered on the state of our democracy ahead of the 2024 election, pan-africanism, and how to be responsive to the needs of citizens and contend against political expediency. Watch here
TOTAL ATTENDEES: 224
PEAK CONCURRENT VIEWERS: 38
COMMENTS: 76
REPLAYS: 322
On Tuesday, June 27, 2023, the NREI hosted its third Live with the Task Force session featuring education and nonprofit leader, Tamir Harper and NREI John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellow, Tatyana Hopkins. During the live session, the two discussed the NREI report: Decriminalizing School Misbehavior: Alternatives to School Referrals and Arrests . The conversation centered on the harmful impact of student referrals and arrests, the progress made in recent years, and recommendations for school discipline policies that support students at school, improve public safety, and reduce systemic disparities. Watch here .
TOTAL ATTENDEES: 158
PEAK CONCURRENT VIEWERS: 25
COMMENTS: 34
REPLAYS: 18
On Friday, July 21, 2023, the NREI hosted its fourth Live with the Task Force session featuring NREI Task Force Ambassador, Nupol Kiazolu and NREI John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellow, Tashia Roberson-Wing. During the live session, the two discussed the NREI report: Behavioral and Mental Health: A National Crisis Impacting Black Youth . The conversation centered on trends linked to Black youth’s behavioral and mental health, current efforts to expand behavioral and mental health services, and ways to continue expanding services. Watch here .
TOTAL ATTENDEES: 184
PEAK CONCURRENT VIEWERS: 24
COMMENTS: 64
REPLAYS: 19
NREI Tulsa Community Conversation
On February 25, 2023, the National Racial Equity Initiative for Social Justice held its third Community Conversation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The event which brought together CBC members, state legislators, policymakers, and community members focused on the past, present, and future of Tulsa—the heart of Black Oklahoma— and imagined a vision for generational justice and liberation. The day included two Fireside Chats with Rep. Terri Sewell and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a panel on Black Tulsa: Past, Present & Future, a series of community-led rotating workshops, and a closing community conversation entitled: What Next? Event photos can be found here
Faith & Politics Institute (FPI) Pilgrimage
On March 2-5, 2023, the NREI John R. Lewis Fellows attended the Faith and Politics Pilgrimage in Montgomery Alabama. This pilgrimage provided Fellows with a firsthand experience of Civil Rights history. The weekend included a panel discussion with civil rights leaders such as Dr. Bernard Lafayette and activist artist Michelle Browder. The trip provided opportunities for fellows to network with the FPI John R. Lewis Fellows, Sponsors and Congressional Members. This trip included a visit to civil rights locations such as:
• The Peace and Justice Memorial
• The Mothers of Gynecology
• Freedom Rides Museum
• Historic Bethel Baptist Church
• 16th Street Baptist Church
• Equal Justice Initiatives Legacy Museum
• Edmund Pettus Bridge
Funders’ Committee for Civic Participation Annual Convening
In April 2023, NREI Sr. Director, Olajumoke “Jummy” Obayanju attended the Funders’ Committee for Civic Participation Annual Convening in New Orleans. Jummy was a part of this year’s convening committee, assisting with content and speaker development. The convening program featured 4 General Plenary sessions, 33 Breakout Sessions, and 2 impromptu strategy sessions centered on current issues: “The Tennessee Two” and multi-entity organizing. More than 150 speakers discussed what is at stake and how funders play a unique role in securing a multiracial and multigenerational democracy that lives up to its promise.
On May 20, 2023, CBCF hosted its inaugural NREI HBCU Scholarship Luncheon to celebrate and honor the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation NREI HBCU Scholarship recipients. The luncheon included a Fireside Chat with Nupol Kiazolu, Founder of WeProtectUs, and Ty Hobson-Powell, Founder & Director of Policy at Concerned Citizens DC, moderated by the NREI Sr. Director, Olajumoke Obayanju. The Fireside Chat explored the three leaders’ perspectives on social justice, HBCUs, and the critical role of youth in progressive change today. The Fireside Chat was followed by a professional development session, “Becoming Social Justice Change Agents,” led by Dwayne Wharton, Founder of Just Strategies. Participants examined the importance of developing a clear vision and mission toward change and understanding the systems and structures perpetuating inequality.
Annual Legislative Conference Session
In September 2023, the NREI held its ALC session, entitled, “Protecting Black Boy Joy.” During the session, panelists explored the disparities impacting Black boys and men and answered the questions: How do we safeguard Black boys, so they can grow into healthy Black men and enjoy adulthood? How do we work as a community to preserve and protect Black Boy joy? Panelists included Jabari Banks, Actor, Bel-Air and Musician; Ty Hobson-Powell, Founder & Executive Director, Concerned Citizens Demanding Change; Will Jawando, Councilmember At-Large, Montgomery County Council and Author; Dr. Joseph E. Marshall Jr. Executive Director, Alive & Free/ Omega Boys Club and Kwame Mbalia, Author of Black Boy Joy. Moderated by Dr. Shaun Harper Clifford and Betty Allen Chair in Urban Leadership at USC, Founder/Executive Director of USC Race and Equity Center.
NREI HBCU Scholarship Luncheon
NREI Annual Summit
On November 14, 2023, the NREI held its second annual Summit, sponsored by Target at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memo rial Library in Washington, DC to learn and engage in conversations that intentionally examine critical social justice issues. The day featured opening poet, Malachi Byrd, three distinct panels and breakout rooms. Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Steven Horsford, Terri A. Sewell, and Marc Veasey were also in attendance. Photos can be found here
Panels
• Panel 1: Protecting the Black Vote: The Road to 2024: During this session, panelists discussed the current state voting restrictions, misinformation surrounding voting preparations, tactics to combat voter suppression, as well as measures to empower the most disadvantaged Black voters, including formerly incarcerated citizens, the elderly, people with disabilities, and college students. The conversation was moderated by LaShanda Jackson, Executive Director, Funders’ Committee for Civic Participation and featured Wisdom O. Cole – National Director, NAACP Youth & College Division; Andrea Hailey, CEO, VVote.org and Victoria Kirby-York, Director of Public Policy and Programs, National Black Justice Coalition.
• Panel 2: Upholding the Truth: Preserving African American History for a Better Tomorrow: During this session, panelists
examined new legislative initiatives aimed at countering false information about African American history, emphasizing the vital role of enacting such laws to combat historical distortions. They also discussed the importance of safeguarding African American truth and history and its impact on Black students, educators, and communities when critical aspects of history are omitted, downplayed, or inaccurately portrayed in educational settings. The conversation was moderated by Dr. Marcia Vandiver, Associate Professor, Towson University and featured Janel George, Associate Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center; Augustus Mays, Vice President, Partnerships and Engagement, The Education Trust and Dr. Robert J. Patterson, Professor of African American History, Georgetown University.
• Panel 3: Corporations As Social Justice Change Agents? Unpacking Corporate Pledges to DEIA Initiatives and the Road Ahead: During this session, panelists will discuss the recent corporate divestments from DEIA initiatives, best practices to advance racial equity within CSR programs, and the influence of corporations on the changing social justice landscape. The conversation was moderated by Kristal Knight, Political Strategist & Founder, Bowen Road Strategies and featured Johnny Bailey, CEO, Small Business Consultant, Bailey Media Group; Anique Graham, Senior Manager, Public Affairs & Corporate Giving, Gilead Sciences and Dekonti Mends-Cole, Executive Director, Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives for Corporate Responsibility, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Breakout Rooms
• Banned Books Room: In this interactive breakout room, participants journeyed through the world of literature that has historically faced controversy. The room not only celebrated the potency of literature but also underscored the vital significance of free expression.
• Voting Rights Trivia Room: In this interactive breakout room participants engaged in a knowledge assessment that simultaneously fostered an interactive and informative experience on critical topics relating to voting rights.
• Empowering the Black Vote: Metcalfe Park Documentary Room: On April 7, 2020, Wisconsin held its primary election. An estimated ~16% of Black voters were disenfranchised in Milwaukee. To prepare for the 2020 presidential election, Danell Cross and Melody McCurtis organized across their community. In this interactive breakout room, participants learned about historical and contemporary voting challenges for the Black community and solutions that empower Black Americans to engage fully in the democratic process through an engaging 20-minute documentary.
• A Gallery Walk: Equity Through Corporate Commitment: In this interactive room participants enjoyed a Gallery Walk spotlighting essential components of the CBCF Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Guide, “Where Do We Go from Here? A Guide to Advance Racial Equity Through Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance.” The room showcased the most critical insights and actionable strategies from the CSR Guide. Each poster contained a page from the Guide, emphasizing how businesses can challenge discriminatory practices and policies to make a lasting, positive impact.
SWOT Analysis
STRENGTHS WEAKNESS
• In its third operating year, the NREI continues to be a staple part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.
• Successful placement of Fellows, substantial scholarships awarded, and a significant increase in research outputs.
• Support from members of Congress dedicated to advancing racial equity.
• Leveraged technology and digital platforms to expand the initiative’s outreach.
OPPORTUNITIES
• Enhanced collaboration with the community.
• Enhanced collaboration with other organizations to amplify impact and broaden outreach.
• Measuring Impact: assessing the Initiative’s effectiveness and impact on addressing racial equity can be challenging, especially given the complexity of the issues and the long-term nature of the solutions (roll-over weakness).
• Dependence on funding can limit scalability; fluctuations in financial support may impact future projects.
THREATS
• Evolving national focus/priority on racial equity may impact future funding.
• As social justice movements evolve, there may be a risk of diminishing public interest or engagement over time.
Review of NREI 2023 Goals
How
Did We Do?
GOALS ACHIEVED NOTES
Leverage Technology and Digital Platforms to Expand the Initiative’s Outreach
• Develop a comprehensive digital strategy outlining specific goals and objectives for utilizing technology and digital platforms.
• Work with the Marketing & Communications department to utilize our social media channels such as Instagram and LinkedIn to share updates, resources, and engage with the community.
• Explore opportunities for content partnerships with the NREI Task Force and online media outlets to amplify the initiative’s message.
• Implement the NREI newsletter to regularly communicate with stakeholders, share updates, and promote events or initiatives.
The goal was satisfactorily met.
To leverage technology and digital platforms for expanding the Initiative’s outreach, we collaborated with the Marketing & Communications department to effectively utilize our social media channels, including Instagram and LinkedIn. We utilized the CBCF social media with the release of our “Live with the Task Force” Series. The implementation of the NREI newsletter also allowed us to maintain regular communication with stakeholders, sharing updates and promoting events and initiatives. We also released 9 monthly newsletters. Overall, these efforts have significantly enhanced our outreach and impact. We have successfully developed a comprehensive digital strategy that outlines clear goals and objectives.
In the coming year we hope to develop a stronger comprehensive digital strategy that outlines clear goals and objectives.
Continued on next page...
GOALS ACHIEVED NOTES
Expand and Enhance the Reach of the CBCF NREI Brand
• Disseminate publications (fact sheets, issue briefs, reports) and research agenda.
• Strengthen the NREI collaboration and partnerships with likeminded organizations and thought partners.
• Increase the NREI presence and participation in policy forums, conference panels, media, etc. in local and national policy discussions.
• Expand HBCU scholarship award recipients by increasing recruitment and scholarship announcements.
• Utilize inaugural Task Force of Social Justice Ambassadors to disseminate and amplify the NREI work.
Yes
We successfully met this goal of expanding and enhancing the reach of the CBCF NREI brand. This achievement is highlighted by the release of 21 publications, including fact sheets, issue briefs, and reports, which have effectively disseminated our research agenda. We also strengthened collaborations and partnerships with numerous likeminded organizations and thought leaders, increasing our collective impact. Our presence in local and national policy discussions has grown significantly, with increased participation in policy forums. Additionally, we expanded the HBCU scholarship award recipients through targeted recruitment and enhanced scholarship announcements. The inaugural Task Force of Social Justice Ambassadors also played a vital role in disseminating and amplifying our work, further solidifying our outreach efforts.
NREI 2024 Goals
Continue to Expand and Enhance Research, Policy, and Community Initiatives
a. Update the NREI page on the CBCF website to improve user experience and accessibility, ensuring it serves as a comprehensive hub for resources, events, and news related to racial equity.
b. Produce at least 15 research pieces across criminal justice, economic opportunity, education and health equity.
c. Create downloadable toolkits and guides that equip individuals and organizations with practical strategies for promoting racial equity in their communities.
d. Work with the Marketing & Communications department to implement a social media strategy that includes regular content updates and engaging multimedia posts to increase followers and interactions.
e. Grow the NREI newsletter subscription base by 40% through targeted outreach and valuable content that informs and inspires action.
Hire a new NREI Program Manager
a. Utilize a variety of recruitment channels, including job boards, social media, professional networks, and partnerships with organizations that focus on diversity and equity, to attract a diverse pool of candidates.
b. Create a detailed onboarding plan that includes orientation sessions on the NREI’s mission, current projects, and organizational culture.
c. Review and enhance the curriculum for the John R. Lewis Fellowship to ensure it includes relevant topics on social justice, equity, and community activism, incorporating input from experts and past fellows. 3 4
Strengthen the NREI HBCU Scholarship and John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowship Programs
a. Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of both the HBCU Scholarship and John R. Lewis Fellowship programs to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement based on feedback from past recipients and stakeholders.
b. Create supplementary resources for scholarship recipients and fellowship participants, including access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and academic support.
Launch second cohort of Task Force of Social Justice Ambassadors
a. Recruit and select second cohort of the NREI Task Force, comprising of professionals across various social justice sectors, including academia, corporate leadership, and community activism.
b. Implement a social media campaign to announce and launch the second cohort.