What is the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference (ALC)?
That one question yields different answers, depending on who you ask.
Some would say that ALC is a place to meet like-minded individuals with an interest in public policy issues such as economic empowerment, health care, and criminal justice from a Black perspective.
Others would say that ALC serves as the stage to spotlight the talent and intellect of Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) fellows, interns, and scholarship winners—our emerging academic, corporate, community, and elected leaders.
Still, others might say that ALC is a spirit-lifting experience like none other, with countless opportunities to find inspiration in how we’ve risen to meet our challenges, whether at a forum, by a musical performance or simply by a chance conversation with other attendees.
Honestly? No one answer exists! The ALC is all of these things, and even more.
But how’s this for a foundational definition: The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation ALC is the leading policy conference on issues impacting African Americans and the global Black community. That sums it up pretty nicely. As the number of Black representatives in Congress grew from four in the early 1960s to 10 by the time of the formal creation of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in 1971 – and given the tumultuous race and civic relations of that era, founding CBC members recognized the need for a unified body to bring greater visibility and political leverage on issues concerning African Americans. Thus, the first ALC was held in 1971 and it now draws tens of thousands to Washington, D.C., and now virtual platforms each year.
This year’s 50th Annual Legislative Conference, which will again be virtual, will feature six days of sessions and signature events featuring thought leaders, elected officials, citizen activists, and celebrities exploring the top issues facing the Black community and showcasing the breadth of Black excellence. We also will highlight the groundbreaking legacy of the Congressional Black Caucus by celebrating its 50th anniversary of service and advocacy on behalf of the Black community.
So now that you know what’s in a name—what’s in an ALC theme?
Come back for an unparalleled answer.