Opening Plenary
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Democracy on Fire: Our Fight for America’s Future

As the opening plenary of the Legislative Policy Conference (LPC), this powerful conversation sets the stage for what’s at stake in the fight to protect our democracy. With democratic institutions under assault, congressional authority eroded, civil rights protections rolled back, and economic inequality deepening, our featured speakers will confront the urgent challenges facing the nation. From attacks on voting rights and judicial independence, to the unchecked concentration of power in the executive branch, this fireside chat will shine a light on the critical choices ahead – and the collective action required to defend America’s future.

Fair Budgets, Stronger Communities: Defending Federal Investments that Promote Equity and Opportunity  
Meeting Room 15

The National Urban League launched the Fair Budget Coalition to fight to ensure equitable resource allocation for federal programs that our communities need to ensure their economic future and address systemic disparities. The coalition includes civil rights organizations, labor unions, city advocates, and think tanks committed to proactively shaping the federal budget debate and uniting against attacks on funding that supports low-to-moderate-income and underserved communities. This session will examine the impact of budget cuts to critical programs like education and Medicaid, the coalition’s formation, its progress to date, and planned advocacy efforts moving forward.

Civil Rights Under Attack: Empowering Communities to Fight Back
Meeting Room 16

As the second Trump administration continues to weaken civil rights protections – undermining voting access, curbing anti-discrimination efforts, and limiting oversight of police abuses – communities across the country are rising to meet the moment. This conversation will spotlight how local and national leaders, organizers, and coalitions are stepping in to defend civil liberties, challenge injustice, and build lasting power at the state and local levels. Through shared strategies and real-time responses, we’ll explore how communities are fighting back and leading the way forward.

The Courts as the First Line of Defense: Litigation Strategies to Protect Democracy
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As democratic norms face escalating threats, the courts remain one of the most powerful tools to resist executive overreach and protect fundamental freedoms. This panel will explore how civil rights organizations, legal advocates, and states are leveraging litigation to defend voting rights, challenge discriminatory policies, and safeguard democratic institutions. From emergency injunctions to long-term legal battles, panelists will examine recent victories, current cases, and the evolving legal strategies being used to push back against authoritarianism and uphold the rule of law.

Break

The Main Street Tax Initiative: A Blueprint for Economic Growth
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As Congress debates budget proposals that threaten critical supports for working families, the National Urban League is launching the Main Street Tax Initiative – a bold, ten-point plan to spur inclusive economic growth, expand opportunity, and advance financial stability. With key provisions of the 2017 tax law set to expire this year, this transformative blueprint outlines direct tax relief, support for first-time homebuyers, small business investment, and expanded credits for working families. This session will bring together lawmakers, economic experts, and community advocates to explore how the initiative offers a powerful counter to proposals that risk deepening racial and economic inequality.

The Next Digital Revolution: Connectivity as a Pathway Out of Poverty
Meeting Room 16

In today’s economy, high-speed internet is the key to escaping poverty—opening doors to education, jobs, healthcare, and financial security. Yet, millions of Black and underserved communities remain disconnected, trapped by systemic barriers and a lack of sustained investment in broadband access and affordability. As federal broadband programs face an uncertain future, how can policymakers, industry leaders, and advocates ensure continued investment in connectivity for underserved communities? This panel will explore why continued investment in digital infrastructure, broadband subsidies, and tech equity is essential to defeating poverty. Experts will discuss the economic cost of digital exclusion, the role of connectivity in workforce development and wealth building, and how policymakers and industry leaders must step up to ensure that the next digital revolution leaves no one behind.

Unlocking the Door to Economic Opportunity and Wealth-Building Through Increased Housing Access  
Meeting Room 15

Homeownership remains one of the most effective pathways for building generational wealth, yet Black families continue to face systemic barriers to accessing affordable housing and fair lending. This panel will explore policy solutions to expand housing opportunities – such as down payment assistance, fair lending protections, and anti-discrimination measures – and examine how bold action can close the racial wealth gap and create lasting economic mobility for historically excluded communities.  

Saluting the Congressional Black Caucus Reception
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This signature event honors distinguished members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC)whose legislative leadership reflects the deep, enduring partnership between the CBC and the National Urban League. From rising stars to legacy leaders, each honoree has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing the Urban League’s empowerment pillars and championing equity, justice, and opportunity for Black Americans. These awards recognize bold action on issues ranging from housing and health equity to education, workforce development, and the protection of democracy.