With a new Pope selected, reflect on how Pope Francis’ advocacy for social & economic justice positively impacted people.

NEW YORK and MEMPHIS (May 7, 2025) — National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial and Memphis Urban League President and CEO Gale Jones Carson issued the following statement in response to the acquittal of three former police officers charged in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols:

"It is baffling that anyone could watch the sickening footage of these former officers recklessly inflicting violence for the sake of violence and conclude their brutality was justified.

"This verdict sends a dangerous message that police officers who violate their own departments' code of conduct, not to mention basic human decency, will not be held accountable for their malicious actions. This was not simply excessive force in defense of public safety; it was wanton cruelty and indifference to suffering.

Nearly 50% of Black Middle Tennesseans live below the poverty level according to a new report, but programs like those at the Urban League are helping create success stories like teen entrepreneur Bryan Torain.

For many Nashvillians, affordable and stable housing is just one of many challenges. The Urban League of Middle Tennessee's (Nashville, TN) inaugural State of Black Middle Tennessee report reveals significant economic hardships facing the Black community.

Teen entrepreneur defies odds amid economic challenges for Black Nashvillians.

"I've been with the Urban League since like 7th grade, since then I've been going to the summer camp leadership academy," Torain said.

Clifton Harris, President and CEO of the Urban League of Middle Tennessee, expressed pride in Torain's accomplishments.

"I'm really excited for him," Harris said.

Weekly pop-up markets will kick off at the Black Business Hub this Saturday, May, 3, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m., featuring an array of locally made food, jewelry, art and more, plus a live DJ and activities for kids.

The Pop-Up Market offers a unique opportunity for the Madison community to support Black entrepreneurs, discover one-of-a-kind creations, and enjoy a lively day filled with food, shopping, and connection. The market will showcase an array of locally made products, including body and hair care items, customized goods, African jewelry, art, candles, fresh juices, vegan dishes, soul food, tacos, seafood, and more.

Spectrum  awarded the Greater Milwaukee Urban League (Milwaukee, WI) with a $40,000 Spectrum Digital Education grant for its digital literacy programs. Spectrum Digital Education awarded $1.3 million to 66 organizations in 2024. 

Since launching in 2017, Spectrum Digital Education has committed more than $10 million to nonprofits focused on improving digital literacy, workforce development and educational access in unserved and undeserved communities across Charter’s 41-state service area.

“Connectivity is the foundation for meaningful learning, professional growth and human connection,” said Rahman Khan, Group Vice President, Community Impact for Spectrum. “Spectrum Digital Education supports programs that empower community members to enhance their lives with connectivity, which helps build strong, thriving communities.” 

The Louisville Urban League (Louisville, KY) hosted its eighth Derby Gala Wednesday night. The Norton Sports and Learning Complex transformed into a space of celebrating and investing in West Louisville.

“All programs benefit from what happens here tonight,” Lyndon Pryor, Louisville Urban League President, CEO said.

Hundreds of community leaders, philanthropists and Derby week fans came together to raise money for the Urban League’s mission and various programs.

“This is our community,” Carolyn Tandy, Humana Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Equity Inclusion Officer said. “For us to have another opportunity to lay roots and be where we should always be, we should be intentional about uplifting the communities we serve.”

The Chicago Urban League will unveil its 2025 State of Black Chicago report and host a May 6 summit aimed at addressing economic disparities and empowering Black families with actionable solutions.