Marc H. Morial 
President and CEO
National Urban League
  

  
“Conventional wisdom may call such intimidating conditions the price of holding elected office. But its fallout harms everyone who relies on a free, fair, and functional democratic process. By deterring officeholders from seeking reelection or running for higher office, taking on important policy positions, or interacting with their constituents, unchecked extremist intimidation distorts government’s ability to represent the people it serves.” – Brennan Center for Justice

After a drive-by shooting, orchestrated by a political adversary, sent three bullets through her 10-year-old daughter’s bedroom, New Mexico State Senator Linda Lopez mused, “Is it worth me putting my family at risk because I vote a certain way, I espouse certain ideals?”

NORFOLK (Jan. 22, 2024) - The Urban League of Hampton Roads (Norfolk, VA) marked the 40th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards Breakfast by honoring a former governor.

Governor Douglas Wilder was honored last Monday, Jan. 15th, at the Urban League event, held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The event paid tribute to local leaders embodying Dr. King's message of unity and equality in the community, with former governor Douglas Wilder receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Former Gov. Douglas Wilder, the first elected African American governor in U.S. history, received the E.L. HAMM Lifetime Achievement Award. Wilder, recognized for his role in advocating for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, shared that it took eight years to pass the holiday.

NASHVILLE (Jan. 22, 2024) – The Urban League of Middle Tennessee (Nashville, TN) has partnered with Cypress Real Estate Advisors and Halladay Ventures for the redevelopment of McFerrin Park apartment community.

The complex, formerly RiverChase, is set to commence this month, with plans for a 140-unit affordable housing property catering to individuals earning 30-80% of the Nashville area's median income. The project is part of a larger 1,150-unit redevelopment approved for rezoning by the Metro Council in November 2022.

ST. LOUIS (Jan. 22, 2024) – The Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis (St. Louis, MO) has received well-deserved funding for their community initiatives.

Ares Resources for Community and Human Services (ARCHs) has made a significant investment of over $27 million into the community, focusing on public safety, food security, and workforce development. This funding has been distributed among 39 agencies and organizations in St. Louis, including well-known entities like Habitat for Humanity and Employment Connection.

Seven million of those dollars have been allocated to community support initiatives emphasizing pathways for individuals to transition from poverty to employment, with the Urban League receiving a notable portion, including $1 million for their public safety initiatives.

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