The third and final statewide convening of the Broadening Perspectives Project concluded in New York, marking the end of a journey that began in California and continued in Ohio. This event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders — including educators, policymakers, community leaders, and families — all focused on the future of assessments and accountability in education. Over the course of the day, participants engaged in deep discussions that highlighted the need for systemic changes to ensure more equitable, transparent, and supportive educational practices for all students, especially those from historically marginalized communities.

Level Setting and Welcome Remarks

Marc H. Morial 
President and CEO
National Urban League

Charlie Rangel wasn’t just a congressman — he was a statesman in every sense of the word. His impact stretched far beyond Harlem, far beyond New York — into the very heart of American politics. — Rev. Michael Faulkner

As then-U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel waited to receive an award at a National Urban League Legislative Policy Conference, a staff member introduced herself as one of his constituents.

"Why, then, you're the most important person in the world!" Rangel responded.

It was no exaggeration. Throughout his astounding 46 years in the House of Representatives, Rangel advocated fiercely for the diverse communities in his New York City district, including the National Urban League's new headquarters in Harlem.  

“Education is important because, first of all, people need to know that discrimination still exists. It is still real in the workplace, and we should not take that for granted.” — Alexis Herman

Fear and intimidation have long been used as weapons to subjugate and silence Black Americans. From the horrors of the Middle Passage to the brutality of Jim Crow segregation, the legacy of violence and racial terror in the United States has left deep scars on generations. National Urban League Board of Trustees Vice Chair Alexis Herman, who passed away last month at the age of 77, knew this history not from textbooks, but from personal experience.

NEW YORK (May 22, 2025) — National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement in response to the budget bill passed by the House of Representatives:

"In contrast to its name, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is One Big Ugly Bill.  It is a massive wealth transfer from those at the bottom of the economy to those at the top and will harm vulnerable people by cutting healthcare, education, and nutrition — not only for the neediest but also for working families and seniors. 

"We urge the Senate to summarily reject this Big Ugly Bill and work on a bipartisan basis to develop a fiscal blueprint that invests in the American people and honor its commitment to the communities it represents.

NEW YORK (May 22,2025) — National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement in response to the murders of two Israeli Embassy staffers in Washington, D.C., last night:

"Even in this sad era of heightened political violence, last night’s murders of two Israeli Embassy aides are shocking and appalling. Our hearts are with the families of Yaron Lischinsk and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, and all those who have suffered antisemitic violence.

"That this atrocity was committed during a celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month only highlights the ongoing horror of antisemitism.

"The National Urban League continues to stand in solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters and remains committed to the fight against hate, discrimination, and terrorism."