2021 IMPACT REPORT
2
2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
4 Letter from the President 6 Meet the Team 8 Our Year at a Glance 10 Congressional Future Caucus 14 State Future Caucus Network 18 Signature Events 22 Policy & Outreach
T ABL E O F C ONT E N T S MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
24 National Storytelling 26 Making Waves 28 Organizational Development 29 Financial Highlights 30 Theory of Change
2021 IMPACT REPORT
3
L E T TER F R OM Dear MAP Supporter, At the start of last year, our country was at a fork in the road. We glimpsed what happens when deep, toxic polarization goes unchecked, and understood the threat that these forces pose to the future of our democracy. But 2021 showed us that we have a choice about what happens next. We can choose to give up on the very idea of America — the idea that our diversity is a source of strength. On this path, we admit that our differences are too far apart to ever reconcile, and that the systemic incentives that sustain and exacerbate those differences are too great to correct. We give up trying to form a more perfect union. Or, we can choose to heed the warning signs that our democracy is fragile, but it’s worth fighting for. MAP and the young legislators in our Future Caucus network chose this path: instead of allowing inertia and political convenience to govern their actions, they looked for ways to buck the system and do things differently. They demonstrated inclusive problem-solving by building authentic relationships across lines of political difference. They embodied the spirit of a diverse democracy by assembling coalitions to work on kitchen table issues faced by their communities. And in the end, they showed the incredible resiliency, creativity, and collaboration possible among our elected leaders. The next generation of policymakers is proving that our democracy’s best days are ahead of us. Take MAP’s Congressional Future Caucus, who in January decided to renew their commitment to a set of core principles in order to enable effective cross-partisan dialogue, debate, and action. These guidelines served as the foundation for the 274 pieces of bipartisan legislation introduced in 2021 by Future Caucus members in Congress. Or, look to the young lawmakers in Connecticut, who launched a Future Caucus in early February— marking the 31st state to join MAP’s network. These state legislators committed to overcoming polarization during a time when crossparty collaboration seemed impossible. The appetite for connection only grew throughout 2021: MAP’s bipartisan network increased to over 1,600 young legislators; we hosted our biggest Future Summit to date; and we hired seven new full time staff members. The result of such growth is a dedicated movement — a dynamic network of changemakers with a shared vision for a more empathetic, innovative democracy. That vision came to life through the many policy ideas our legislators advanced. Legislators collaborated on renewable energy solutions, inspired by a MAP report revealing the once-in-a-generation opportunity that microgrids present. Young elected leaders successfully championed justice reform in Wisconsin, Colorado, Oregon, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. And policymakers across the political spectrum came together in public and private forums to learn about ways to strengthen our democracy and improve voters’ trust in our electoral systems. We are so proud of what we have accomplished together. 2021 proved once again that young people have the power to affect positive change, and that the next generation of lawmakers can work together to solve our nation’s urgent issues. By investing in young leaders and continuing to build the MAP movement, I believe we can bring transformative change to our Congress, states, and communities. Together, we can continue to transform our politics by redefining what leadership looks like in this country. Thank you for being an indispensable part of MAP’s mission. My first eight months as President & CEO were marked by a tremendous appreciation for each of you, and the ways you elevate this movement. Our work is only possible with leaders, advisors, volunteers, funders, and supporters like you — and we are honored to have you with us on this journey. Onward,
Layla Zaidane President & CEO 4
2021 IMPACT REPORT
THE PR E S I MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
DENT MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT
5
MEET THE TEAM
MISSION Millennial Action Project has an audacious mission: activate young leaders to bridge the partisan divide and transform American politics. Our generation has a unique opportunity to forge a new path and lead our nation into the future, which is why MAP is committed to activating our nation’s youngest generation of leaders and lawmakers.
6
2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
Layla Zaidane President & CEO
Stacy Lewis
Senior Director of External Affairs
Joe Greaney
Associate Director of Policy and Outreach
Murphy Walsh
Senior Policy Coordinator
BOARD OF ADVISORS The Honorable Olympia Snowe Former U.S. Senator of Maine The Honorable Bill Bradley Former U.S. Senator of New Jersey The Honorable Jon Huntsman, Jr. 16th Governor of Utah Former U.S. Ambassador to China
Lani Bohm
Senior Manager of Communication & Digital Strategy
Alexa Whaley
Media Coordinator
Blaine Volpe
Kate Griesemer
Senior Manager, State Caucus Network
Senior Manager, State Caucus Network
Hannah Ryans
Sam Sherwood
Assistant to the CEO and Special Projects Coordinator
Ambassador Donald Gips Albright Stonebridge Group Former U.S. Ambassador to South Africa
EMERITUS ADVISORS
Dr. Peter Levine Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, Tufts University
The Honorable Barbara Lawton 43rd Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin
Shawn Golhar Barclays
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
Director of Development
Thione Niang Give1Project
Dr. Jeremi Suri University of Texas-Austin
Kari Dunn Saratovsky Third Plateau Social Impact Strategies
Amy Eastman
Director of Operations
Congressman Chris Gibson Former U.S. Representative, NY-19
The Honorable Aneesh Chopra Former U.S. Chief Technology Officer
Congressman Carlos Curbelo Former U.S. Representative, FL-24
Claire Meneer
Rochelle Colburn
Chief Operating Officer
The Honorable Jennifer M. Granholm 47th Governor of Michigan
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nick Maschari Mission North Shane Bateman Murmuration David Burd Heidrick & Struggles
Policy Coordinator
Laurie Schultz Heim U.S. Intitute of Peace (Ret.) Ellen Kim Turnaround Advisor Maryfrances Metrick M Metrick Advisory David Rokeach Boston Consulting Group Nancy Roman Partnership for Healthier America Erica Williams Kirkland & Ellis Rachel Pearson Pearson & Associates Layla Zaidane President & CEO, MAP 2021 IMPACT REPORT
7
OUR Y E AR AT A GLANC E
1600+
Legislators engaged
1
New State Future Caucus launched
31
State Future Caucuses
15
Policy products released
6
State legislators awarded in the 4th annual Rising Star Awards 8
2021 IMPACT REPORT
133% 6
increase in press hits
Virtual policy convenings held
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
274
pieces of bipartisan congressional legislation were introduced by CFC members
33%
increase in MAP program participants
36
pieces of bipartisan congressional legislation introduced by CFC members passed the house
8 7 .6 M IL L IO N Americans are represented in Congress by Millennials
79
State legislators at MAP’s 5th annual Future Summit
6
New MAP staff roles created and filled MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT
9
CONGR ESSI O N A L
FUTURE CAUCUS
The Congressional Future Caucus (CFC) is our nation’s first and only bipartisan caucus for young members of Congress. The Caucus brings young members together across partisan lines to practice empathetic leadership, identify cross-partisan opportunities, and make constructive governance a norm in Congress. In the face of unprecedented challenges to civility and a productive working environment in Congress, members of the CFC continued to buckle down and prioritize solutions of partisanship. Members of the CFC rallied around continuing to aggressively fight the pandemic and account for its impact on American society such as public wellbeing, the changing definition of work, supply-chain challenges, and more. Beyond COVID-19, CFC members formally agreed to hold themselves accountable to a standard of trust — pledging to cooperate, respect, and show compassion for one another — to help them build stronger working relationships.
“
2 02 1 C F C C O - C H A IRS
Millennials are severely underrepresented in federally elected positions. Millennials are the future, and it is imperative that we have legislators who are equipped to represent the challenges and priorities specific to this generation. The Congressional Future Caucus is the beating heart of this effort, and I am proud to serve as Co-Chair of such a forwardthinking, constructive, and productive group.
Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT-01)
— Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT-01), 2021 Congressional Future Caucus Co-Chair
As one of the youngest Members of Congress, I am working every day to make government more responsive to the concerns of millennials and young people. I’m proud to serve as the Democratic Co-Chair of the Congressional Future Caucus to do just that – focusing on the issues that uniquely affect young Americans and ones that younger generations, regardless of political party, have rallied around. — Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53), 2021 Congressional Future Caucus Co-Chair 10 2021 IMPACT REPORT
Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53) MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
CF C EVE N T S GE N E R AT IO N RO UND TA B LE FO RUM
MAP partnered with BridgeUSA to present the Generation Roundtable Forum. Two of our Emeritus CFC Co-Chairs, Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy (D-FL-07) and Former Congressman Carlos Curbelo (R-FL-26), discussed climate change, economic mobility, and democracy reform.
CF C B Y T HE N U M BE RS
31 M
Americans represented by CFC members
274
Pieces of bipartisan congressional legislation were introduced by CFC members
AME R I C AN D R E A M B RIEFING & R O UND TABLE: M ILLENNIAL AND GE N Z P E R S P E C TIV ES MAP also convened members of Congress and senior staffers for a briefing and roundtable discussion with pollster and media personality Kristen Soltis Anderson and the Walton Family Foundation. The event explored recent research into young Americans’ political and social attitudes and reflected on the unique duties of young members of Congress.
41
CFC Members
36
Pieces of bipartisan congressional legislation introduced by CFC members passed the house
4
Caucus Covenings
C F C C O N V E N E S TO A D D RESS EMER G ING TECHNOLOGIES , NATIONAL SECU R IT Y, AN D THE R ULE O F LAW
The CFC convened over dinner to discuss emerging technology and national security. Three Members of Congress joined us: Rep. Blake Moore, Rep. Sara Jacobs, and Rep. Victoria Spartz. We brought in experts on the topic, including representatives from the Center for Security and Emerging Technologies, the RAND Corporation, R Street Institute, and the Library of Congress to drive the conversation on where the US stands, the challenges we face, and where we’re heading. Young people have a unique advantage in solving our country’s greatest technological and security challenges, and this group is at the forefront. MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2
Pieces of legislation were signed into law
2021 IMPACT REPORT 11
L E GISLAT IV E IM PACT : H.R. 15 0 2 : TH E M IC R O LO A N I M P R O VEM EN T AC T O F 2 0 2 1 This bill, introduced by Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ-3) and cosponsored by Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-2), modifies the Small Business Administration’s microloan program to provide more opportunities for flexible lines of credit to qualified small businesses with an emphasis on providing support to underserved communities and states.
H.R. 4 05 5 : AM E R IC AN C Y B E R S E C U R ITY LITER AC Y AC T
To address the critical need of expanding awareness and disseminating cybersecurity best practices, this bipartisan bill from Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL-16) directs the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to conduct a cybersecurity literacy campaign with the goal of reducing risk to individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
H.R. 32 8 3 : TO R E P E A L T H E JO IN T R E SOLU TION
This effort, spearheaded by Rep. Peter Meijer (R-MI-3), repeals a never-invoked, longstanding resolution that provided for the use of certain funds for military and other purposes in the Middle East. With significant bipartisan support, particularly among young legislators and members of the Future Caucus, this bill signifies an effort to turn a new page in American foreign policy and military engagements overseas, and represents an important step in establishing a new generation of congressional oversight of spending and military priorities.
H.R. 16 9 3 : EQU A L AC T
This important bipartisan bill introduced by Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8) eliminates the sentencing disparity between drug offenses involving crack cocaine and powder cocaine. With significant bipartisan support, this bill marks a critical step towards eliminating racialized disparities in the criminal justice system.
12 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
MILLEN N IAL ACTIO N S TAF F AS SO C I AT IO N
Since its launch in 2019, the Millennial Action Staff Association (MASA) has been a space for CFC staffers to build relationships across party lines, learn from their peers and outside experts, and cultivate a connection between offices.
270+
Members in MASA
Elizabeth Barczak Legislative Counsel, Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH)
“ MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
11
Legislative digests developed and delivered
Sammi Goldsmith Legislative Assistant, Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI)
6
Convenings to discuss topics such as COVID-19, D.C. statehood, data privacy, and artificial intelligence
Devon Murphy Military Legislative Assistant, Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT)
Jordan Nasif Legislative Correspondent, Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA)
I’m proud to have been a Co-Chair of the Millennial Action Staff Association during 2021. Whether digging into policy discussions, attending a professional development session, or just getting together for a happy hour, MASA is a place to come together in bipartisan groups to get to know one another and form the relationships that help us do the real work of Congress: building consensus around solutions. — Devon Murphy, Senior Defense Policy Advisor, Rep. Blake Moore 2021 IMPACT REPORT 13
STATE FUTURE CAUCUS NETWORK
In 2021, the State Future Caucus Network (SFCN) grew to encompass 31 states, and MAP staff adopted a hybrid online and in-person approach to build and maintain relationships with Future Caucuses and individual legislators. Even under challenging political conditions and amid the ongoing pandemic, MAP was able to adapt strategy and programming to uplift young legislators who are committed to transcending party lines. In addition to the 31 Future Caucuses that have launched in states across the country, MAP strives to directly support more than 1,600 young legislators with policy resources, opportunities to connect with experts and one another, and professional trainings. Legislative highlights from Future Caucuses during the past year include innovative policy solutions to address critical issues such as dignity for incarcerated women, access to affordable higher education, support for first time home buyers, and talent retention. MAP is inspired to see how SFCN members joined together to put policy over party during this difficult time, and we look forward to continuing this work.
1 600+ 17
Virtual Convenings
14 2021 IMPACT REPORT
Young state legislators engaged
6
40 0 +
State legislators awarded in the fourth annual Rising Star Awards
4
Attendees at SFCN webinars hosted by MAP
Quarterly Network newsletters delivered to the young state legislators in the Network
31
State Future Caucuses
N EW
Future Caucus launched
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
NEW C AUC U S : CO N N E CTICU T
In March 2021, we launched and celebrated a major milestone for the SFCN: the 31st State Future Caucus. The Connecticut Future Caucus is led by bipartisan co-chairs: Rep. Devin Carney (R) and Rep. John-Michael Parker (D); and vice-chairs: Sen. Paul Cicarella (R) and Rep. Jillian Gilchrest (D).
“
In October, the Caucus took part in a monthly conversation series hosted by the Hartford Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Civic Engagement Committee. These young legislators discussed actions the Future Caucus is taking to help young business leaders thrive in Connecticut and to represent young people across the political spectrum.
C ON N EC TICUT FUTURE C AU C U S POLICY PR IO R ITI ES: Climate
Education
Community Development Civic Engagement
I’m thrilled for this opportunity to help lead Connecticut’s new Future Caucus and to work with my colleagues across the aisle on critical issues facing future generations. Whether in our communities or in the legislature, there’s so much more that we agree on than the typical political narratives would suggest—and that’s where we’ll come up with the creative approaches to solve our biggest challenges. From climate to education to community development, we’ve got to bring new energy and new ideas to the entrenched issues hanging over all of our futures, and I can’t wait to work with the members of this bipartisan caucus to encourage expanded civic engagement and help move Connecticut forward. — Connecticut State Rep. John-Michael Parker
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 15
PASSING THE
T O R C H
MAP helped recruit, announce, and onboard new and returning Future Caucus leaders in key states in 2021 A RKAN S AS
Representatives Aaron Pilkington (R-69) and Jamie Scott (D-37)
ILLIN O I S
Representatives Barbara Hernandez (D-83) and David Welter (R-75)
K AN S AS
Representatives Tory Marie Arnberger-Blew (R-112), Rui Xu (D-25), Brandon Woodard (D-30), and Nick Hoheisel (R-97)
LOU IS IAN A
Representatives Jason Hughes (D-100) and Thomas Pressly (R-6)
O KLAHO M A
Senator Carri Hicks (D-40), Senator John Michael Montgomery (R-32), Representative Ajay Pittman (D-99), and Representative Judd Strom (R-10)
T E N N ES S EE
Representative Michael Curcio (R-69) and Senator Raumesh Akbari (D-29) Tennessee Future Caucus Co-Chairs Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D) and Rep. Michael Curcio (R) appeared on WKRN News 2 TV to discuss their efforts working together — across the aisle — on issues such as criminal justice reform and education, putting their constituents and state above party.
16 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
LEGISLATIVE IMPACT ARKA NS A S H B17 9 3
Arkansas Future Caucus pursues justice within correctional and detention facilities This bipartisan bill, sponsored by Arkansas Future Caucus Co-chairs Reps. Scott (D) and Pilkington (R), requires correctional and detention facilities to establish a policy to offer mammograms to and consultations to females of certain ages.
COLO RAD O H B2 1 - 1 3 1 5
Criminal Justice Reform Advisory Council members reform court fines and fees Reps. Leslie Herod (D) and Matt Soper (R) worked to remove several administrative fees, costs, and surcharges paid by juveniles, parents, or guardians in juvenile detention cases. Costs removed include those for juveniles’ medical care, fees for applying for court counsel, and costs of prosecution.
CONN ECTIC U T S B 9 7 5
Connecticut Future Caucus members strengthen the rights of long-term care residents This bipartisan bill strengthens rights of long-term care residents and authorizes use of resident technology. This bill has been signed into law by the Governor! Building relationships across the aisle is vital in order to be a more effective legislator in Hartford. I am pleased that as chair of the Aging Committee and a member of the Connecticut Future Caucus, we were able to leverage those relationships to secure strong bipartisan support for the measures we brought to the House floor impacting state seniors. I am grateful to MAP for their continued support and work connecting and uplifting young legislators like me. — Connecticut State Rep. Quentin “Q” Phipps
ILLINO IS H B33 1 7
Illinois Future Caucus creates a Domestic Violence Task Force Reps. Barbara Hernandez (D) and David Welter (R) drove forward legislation which creates the Domestic Violence Task Force to establish a consistent, uniform statewide system to protect victims and survivors of domestic violence, while holding offenders accountable.
KA NSA S H B2 18 7
Kansas Future Caucus endorses first-time home buyers savings account act On May 18th, Governor Laura Kelly signed into law HB 2187 — endorsed and sponsored by the Kansas Future Caucus — which enacted the first-time home buyer savings account act.
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 17
SIGNATURE EVENTS
5 T H ANNUAL FUTURE SU MMIT
On July 29-30, 2021 Millennial Action Project hosted its fifth annual Future Summit. MAP hosted the event virtually, which allowed a diverse group of speakers to get involved and more legislators than ever to attend. A bipartisan group of 79 state legislators from 36 states and one territory convened to hear from expert speakers, participate in bridge-building breakout sessions, and evaluate tactics to foster a more collaborative governing culture in their statehouses. The Future Summit serves as an invaluable opportunity for these elected officials to convene around issues that impact America’s present and future.
415k+
79
37
#2021FutureSummit Digital impressions
Record legislators in attendance
Record states and territories represented
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawai’i, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Guam
Future Summit provides a real opportunity to connect with legislative colleagues from across the country, discussing bipartisanship, important policies issues, and the need to work together to solve today’s challenges. — Asm. Michael Lawler (R-NY)
18 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
PO LICY P R IO R ITIE S STRENGTHENING OUR DEMOCRACY Emerging Civic Technologies & the Future of American Elections SKI LLS, START-UPS, AND SUPPLY Catalyzing Innovation and Expanding Opportunity in your Communities PREVENTING A LOST FUTURE Leveraging Pandemic Momentum in Criminal Justice Reform A NEW FORECAST Responding to Changing Energy Dynamics for a More Resilient Future
FEATU R IN G WHITE HOU S E O FFIC IALS AN D S N AP C H AT CEO, E VAN S P IE G E L
Future Summit kicked off with the Aspen Institute’s Better Arguments Project, holding a workshop on taking winning off the table to have more productive conversations. President and CEO of Millennial Action Project, Layla Zaidane, sat down for a fireside chat with Evan Spiegel, Co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc. Legislators tuned in for a morning plenary address from White House officials Julie Chávez Rodriguez, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs, and Gabe Uy, Associate Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.
*This event was not sponsored by the White House.
The Future Summit was an amazing venue to engage with legislators across the aisle and across the country about the greatest challenges facing our generation. The event offered solutions focused discussions and strategies to build a path out of this period of partisan division. — Rep. David LeBoeuf (D-MA)
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 19
20 21 R ISIN G ST AR AWA R D S The Rising Star Award highlights young leaders — one Republican and one Democrat — and their contributions to the State Future Caucus Network (SFCN) over the last year. It aims to celebrate SFCN members who embody MAP’s vision of transcending political division. The Rising Star Award honors leaders who take initiative in shepherding bipartisan legislation that addresses priority issues in today’s political climate.
RISING STARS
State Representative Devin Carney (R-CT)
State Representative Jamie Scott (D-AR)
I am honored to be chosen by the Millennial Action Project and I love that we share the same mission to find common ground with our adversaries. In my service to the Arkansas legislature and as a young woman of color, I have led by example to build relationships across party and demographic aisles to wage inclusive efforts to pass meaningful legislation. I believe our generation needs to be the change we have been waiting on. Our generation owes a great debt to the ones that came before us. I cannot think of a better way to repay that obligation than by working across partisan and racial divides to solve the great challenges of the 21st century. It is time to reunite these great states of America. — Rep. Jamie Scott
20 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
CHERISSE EATMON COLLECTIVE IMPACT AWARD:
KANSAS
For four years, Cherisse Eatmon brought tenacity, grace, and leadership to MAP as our State Future Caucus Network Director. We mourn her unexpected passing in 2020, and continue to honor her legacy through presenting the second annual Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award.
The Cherisse Eatmon Collective Impact Award recognizes an outstanding state caucus for their future-focused leadership and political bridge-building. MAP proudly presented the award to the Kansas Future Caucus, which is led by Kansas State Representatives:
Rep. Tory Marie Arnberger-Blew (R)
Rep. Rui Xu (D)
Rep. Nick Hoheisel (R)
Rep. Brandon Woodard (D)
NEW
Future Caucus bill passed
SERVE TOGETHER: NATIONAL WEEK OF POST-PARTISAN ACTION MAP created a National Week of Post-Partisan Action (NWPA) in 2020. The annual week of action provides a venue for young leaders of all stripes — from congresspeople to state legislators to active citizens — to model good-faith conversations and promote a new post-partisan political culture.
The second annual National Week of Post-Partisan Action was held March 1519, 2021. Over five days, MAP’s network of young lawmakers demonstrated sincere commitment to building a new narrative of collaborative problem-solving. Connecticut state legislators unveiled the 31st chapter of the State Future Caucus Network, Congressional Future Caucus emeritus co-chairs reflected on their experiences with post-partisanship at the federal level; women state legislator leaders discussed women’s leadership in collaborative policymaking; and social media saw a buzz of enthusiastic post-partisan discussion among young state legislators from across the country and political spectrum. MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
1. 8 MILLION
Digital impressions on #MAPservestogether and #MAPchat
7 . 5 MILLION
Americans represented by participating legislators
2021 IMPACT REPORT 21
POLICY & OUTREACH
Throughout the year, MAP mobilized leaders in our network to strengthen our democratic institutions, bring equity to our justice systems, build more resilient communities through improved energy infrastructure, and reimagine the future of work. Innovative policy solutions are a powerful tool to bridge political divides, especially amongst young legislators, and MAP supports this critical work by: sourcing notable legislative approaches, disseminating best practices, convening subject matter experts, and facilitating dialogue amongst policymakers on issues of critical importance.
SPO TLIG HT: S TR E N G THE N IN G DE MO C RAC Y E XPLO R IN G R A N K E D CHO ICE V O TING Convened legislators and experts from Utah, Virginia, Alaska, and New Mexico to address how ranked choice voting measures can be an effective nonpartisan tool to form a more representative government
D R AW IN G T HE L IN ES
ENS URING ELECTION RE S I LI E N CY 4
1
Equipped young legislators with “Post-2020 Election Talking Points” to rebuild faith in the security of American elections
3
2
CURATING ELECTION PO LICIE S
Engaged experts from the Campaign Legal Center to help young legislators understand the history, need, and process for redistricting as well as identify legislative solutions to draw more fair maps
Identified bipartisan legislative packages that address issues relating to election security and ballot access to inspire and share effective practices across state lines
In April, four members of the Illinois Future Caucus convened a town hall, inviting constituents to get civically engaged and emphasizing the importance of building bipartisan coalitions to restore faith in our democratic institutions.
MILESTONE: P U R S U IN G J U S T IC E
The Criminal Justice Reform Advisory Council celebrates one year
The Criminal Justice Reform (CJR) Advisory Council set out to educate, engage, and mobilize young state legislators across our network to work to improve the criminal justice system through:
Co-Chair | Rep. Leslie Herod (D-CO)
Sentencing Reform | Court Fees and Fine | Recidivism Reduction | Justice Reinvestment Led by Representative Leslie Herod (D-CO) and Speaker Pro Tempore Tanner Magee (R-LA), the CJR Advisory Council mobilized legislators in Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia, Wisconsin, Colorado, Oregon, Illinois, Oklahoma, and Louisiana by successfully identifying, supporting, and advancing 14 legislative actions. 22 2021 IMPACT REPORT
Co-Chair | Speaker Pro Tempore Tanner Magee (R-LA) MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
42
States and Congress tracked for developments in policy and legislation
15
Policy resources published
13
Virtual policy convenings held
N EW
Resource campaign on Strengthening Democracy
POLICY PARTNERSHIPS In 2021, MAP deepened collaborations with stakeholders and leaders to advance solutions in issue areas critical to the youngest generations of Americans. From think tanks to institutions of higher learning, and others driving the pursuit of solutions forward, we invested in relationships that will allow leaders of the future to build a more representative government, strengthen local economies, and create thriving communities. Our partnerships helped explore questions big and small, from measuring the impact of next-generation technologies on jobs and climate resiliency, to uplifting stories of people who have benefited from efforts to improve outcomes in the criminal justice system, how to depolarize election policy debates and focus on pragmatic solutions, and more. Together, we ensure that MAP is on the cutting edge of discovering, testing, and amplifying the solutions that will bring together diverse coalitions and help solve our biggest challenges.
MAP X FU T U R E O F WO R K In 2021, MAP partnered with the Kauffman Foundation to raise the visibility of barriers to entrepreneurs and small businesses that can be solved through good legislation. Additionally, MAP laid the groundwork to launch a new Future of Work policy vertical with support from the Omidyar network. We look forward to seeing this program evolve in 2022.
MAP X M IC R O G R ID S MAP commissioned a report, alongside the Civil Society Institute and RMI, showing the lasting impact on local economies and job growth from investing in renewable energy, battery storage and controls for microgrids. The culmination of this once-in-a-generation report is a result of years working together with these institutions and a shared commitment to clean energy and a sustainable environment.
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 23
NATIONAL
S TORY T E L L IN G 850+
1 33 %
27 %
1.4 MILLI O N
New Email Subscribers
New Social Media Followers (Compared to 2020)
Press Hits
All time views on YouTube
Highest performing Tweet
65k impressions | 626 engagements
STORYTEL L IN G T H R O UG H O P IN IO N - E DITO R IALS
In 2021, we turned to publishing op-eds to uplift our legislators’ voices and educate the public about what a truly inclusive democracy looks like. In addition, the Fulcrum publication began featuring monthly columns by MAP, and we helped to place three legislator-authored op-eds throughout the year in local outlets.
Highest performing Instagram post
54.3k views | 577likes | 11 shares | 7 saves
24 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
P RESS F EATU R ES
S P E C T R U M NEW S: In March, MAP’s President & CEO Layla Zaidane was featured on Spectrum News for an episode of In Focus with Loretta Boniti on Millennials in public office. During the interview, she spoke on MAP’s mission and theory of change:
“When you put the issues as a future versus past, and not just a left versus right, you can create a lot of change.”
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 25
MAKING WAVES # OURAMER IC AN FA B R I C : IN S T AG R AM LIVE S ER IES
In 2021, we launched a series of live conversations held on Instagram to celebrate “Our American Fabric.” Because the Millennial generation is America’s most diverse generation, each month, MAP invited young legislators from across the country to share their story! Through heritage months, cultural celebrations, and historic events, this series amplifies the stories and voices of our generation’s leaders.
1 ,700+
Instagram accounts reached
20
Legislator participants
8
Episodes
F EATU RED P O D C A S T S
26 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
...AC RO SS IN TE R N AT IO N AL WAT E R S Bridge-Building Across Borders
In October, MAP was honored to have nominated two young state legislators through the New Bridge Program that were chosen to travel to Germany and Belgium. Indeed, our nation’s leading bridge-builders — despite being the youngest in their legislatures — are doing just that across the political aisle in their legislatures and across the pond to improve transatlantic relations.
...AC RO SS IN D US T R IE S Data Talks
A recently published WalletHub study utilizes the Millennial Action Project’s Future Caucuses to measure millennial civic engagement and overall quality of life in each state. The presence of a Future Caucus was an indicator of high civic engagement and favorable living conditions.
...TH RO U G H A N E W G E N E R AT IO N O F LEADER S
The Ronald Reagan Institute’s Leadership and the American Presidency In July, President & CEO Layla Zaidane spoke to the summer cohort of The Ronald Reagan Institute’s Leadership and the American Presidency. The cohort was made up of college students from around the country who are in Washington D.C. to garner experiences in government, business, and nonprofit organizations. National Citizen Leadership Conference On a panel at the third National Citizen Leadership Conference, Layla Zaidane discussed electoral reform and political bridge-building in a larger conversation about empowering voters, diminishing destructive partisanship, and renewing civic engagement. UPSWELL Layla Zaidane attended the Upswell Conference, hosted by Independent Sector. She spoke about how MAP is on the offensive to make progress toward a more just and inclusive America, and how to inspire young legislators to stay the course in this bridge-building endeavor. Rutgers University Alongside Kansas Future Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Rui Xu, Layla Zaidane spoke to students of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University’s Legislative Policymaking class. The students, many of whom intern on both sides of the aisle in the New Jersey Assembly, asked about Future Caucus legislative successes, and how to remove toxic dialogue from our political process.
...TH RO U G H TH O U G H T L E A D E R S H IP
Partnership for American Democracy: Advisory Council Layla Zaidane proudly joined the Advisory Council of the Partnership for American Democracy, a national nerve center driving attention, energy, and resources to efforts strengthening democracy in America. Unite America: Brewer Fellowship By joining the Brewer Fellowship to Unite America in 2021 and beyond, Layla Zaidane will continue to be equipped to sustain and scale MAP and establish a more representative and functional government.
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 27
O R GANIZATIO N AL D E VE LO P M E N T 6 3 2 2
new full-time staff members hired facilitated Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training sessions completed MAP staff retreats hosted new members to the Board of Directors
NEW
initiative launched to develop 5-year Strategic Plan
NEW
professional development stipends provided for staff
NEW
EDI Committee launched
The Board of Directors started their search to replace MAP’s founder, Steven Olikara, in September 2020. They engaged the firm LeaderFit to conduct a thorough executive search and worked with MAP stakeholders and staff members to find the perfect leader to shepherd MAP through this next big chapter. Layla Zaidane was officially announced MAP’s CEO in April 2021.
28 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
FINANCIAL HIG HL IG HTS 2 0 2 1 AT A G LA N C E R EVEN U E
Major Gifts
Foundations
$200K
$1.17M
In-Kind
Individuals
$90K
$8K
Corporate
$70K
Board
TOTAL $1.55M
$16K
EXPEN S ES Admin
10%
Development
14%
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
Programs & Services
76%
2021 IMPACT REPORT 29
THE MOMENT FOR CHANGE IS NOW
30 2021 IMPACT REPORT
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
M AP THEORY OF CHANGE
MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
2021 IMPACT REPORT 31
Millennial Action Project 1701 Rhode Island Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20036
WWW.MILLENNIALACTION.ORG
@MACTIONPROJECT
@MACTIONPROJECT
@MILLENNIALACTIONPROJECT
/MILLENNIALACTIONPROJECT
@MILLENNIALACTIONPROJECT