At Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Phoenix Awards, President Biden And Vice President Harris Urge Caucus To Advance Their Vision For The Future

The work of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) was honored tonight by President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris – noting that these bodies have helped advance freedoms for all Americans that are now under threat ahead of November's Presidential elections.

As he was honored with the CBC Lifetime Achievement award at the Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner, the flagship event of the CBCF's Annual Legislative Conference, President Biden noted that his administration's achievements were bolstered by the actions of the CBC.

He said, "With the CBC, we went big and we went bold and we are better off today than we were four years ago. I'm being very sincere when I say a big reason why is because Congress boasts the highest number of Black members in American history."

Looking beyond his presidency, President Biden added, "We must show up; we must look to the future. I'm looking to you to help lead the way, to help push us forward and be the country we say we are, a country of freedom, justice and equality and proving that Black history is American history and Black excellence is American excellence."

Vice President Harris called on the CBC to leverage its history as "the conscience of the Congress" to provide a vision for the future of the country.

She said, "As a proud former CBC member I know first-hand America relies on the leaders in this room not only for a conscience but for a vision. The CBC has always had a vision for the future of our nation; a future where we can see what is possible unburdened by what has been, a future where fulfil the promise of America; a promise of freedom opportunity and justice, not just for some but for all. And today that vision is under profound threat."

She concluded, "Each of us has a job to do, and the bottom line is we know what we stand for and that's why we know what we fight for. And when the CBC fights, we win."

The winners of the 2024 Phoenix Awards are:

• President Joseph R. Biden, Congressional Black Caucus Lifetime Achievement Award.
• Governor of Maryland Wes Moore, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs' Award
• The late Sheila Jackson-Lee, former U.S. representative for Texas's 18th congressional district, Congressional Black Caucus's Body Award
• The 14th Librarian of Congress Dr. Carla Hayden, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Chair's Award
• Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison, Mission In Action Award

Speaking at the event, CBCF Board Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) noted that the murder of George Floyd has sparked a renewed commitment to addressing racial inequalities across American society.

She said, "The racial reckoning, brought about by the murder of George Floyd has renewed our energy and our commitment to work for social justice and economic prosperity; and to close the racial gaps that confront all of American society – in education, in income, in home ownership, in environmental justice, in public safety, and so much more."

CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery added that this year's ALC theme, "From Vision to Victory: Amplifying Black Voices" acts as a challenge to engage, advocate, and drive change, adding that every voice and action strengthens our unity and determination, essential for achieving victory.

She said, "This year, doing what needs to be done means building the success we've achieved together. It's a long journey, but it's a journey of progress, and, as you've heard, we're closer than ever to moving from Vision to Victory, Amplifying Black Voices. And that theme is a challenge; it's a call to action to you – to all of us – to engage, to advocate, and to drive change. Each and every voice adds to our collective strength; every collective action emphasizes our unity and our determination. And all of those things are necessary to move us from Vision to Victory."

Awardee Quotes

Dr. Carla Hayden, "Some have noted that I am making history as the first woman and the first African American in this post, and that is true. As a descendant of people who were denied the right to read to now have the opportunity to serve and lead the institution that is our national symbol of knowledge is a historic moment, and receiving the Phoenix Award is truly one of the capstones of my career."

Governor Wes Moore said, "I am standing before you as probably the most improbable governor in America. I say that as somebody who had handcuffs on my wrists by the time I was 11, as someone who joined the army when I was 17, and as someone who went to a two-year college, but is now standing in front of you as the 63rd governor of my state and the first Black governor in the history of the state of Maryland. It is an exciting time for our state. It's an exciting time for our country and I'm so grateful to be your partner in the work."

Jaime Harrison said, "As DNC Chair, the third Black person and the first CBCF intern and CBCI bootcamper to ever serve in this role, I have been fortunate enough to use this platform to uplift our voices and fight for our communities but most importantly to give our people hope. My life is a testament that in America the son of a teen mom, the progeny of those who came to this country in chains, forced to pick cotton and clean houses, relegated to the back of the bus, can go on to chair the oldest and most powerful political party on the planet, and pick presidents."

For updates on ALC and CBCF, follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

About CBCF
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. Established in 1976, CBCF is committed to creating and maintaining an equitable society for all. To learn more, visit cbcfinc.org.

Feed the Soul Foundation Awards $850,000 to Marginalized Culinary Businesses through Restaurant Business Development Grant Program

According to the National Restaurant Association's 2024 State of the Industry report, 98 percent of culinary business owners say higher labor and operations costs are an issue for their restaurant, 97 percent cite food inflation as a challenge, and 38 percent expressed their restaurants were not profitable in 2023. 

Additionally, the report states competition is strong with 45 percent of operators expecting competition to be more intense than last year.

Nearly half of consumers are increasingly cautious with their spending habits. This trend is particularly evident in the restaurant industry, where patrons are less likely to spend money unless they are enticed by compelling promotions or valuable dining experiences. 

In its fourth year of service, Feed the Soul Foundation, the nonprofit arm of Black Restaurant Week and Latin Restaurant Weeks, continues to address these challenges and reintroduces their cohort program to support marginalized restaurant entrepreneurs financially and professionally through the Restaurant Business Development Grant Program – awarding more than $850,000 in 2024 with additional contributions from Stella Artois. 

Founded by entrepreneurs Falayn Ferrell, Warren Luckett, Derek Robinson, and Karinn Chavarria, Feed the Soul Foundation has increased its funding and expanded its reach to support marginalized culinary businesses across the nation. By securing additional resources, the organization has been able to offer more substantial grants, provide educational workshops, and create networking opportunities. These efforts help to level the playing field and promote diversity within the culinary business sector.

Through the support of presenting program partner, the Grubhub Community Fund and partner Stella Artois, Feed the Soul Foundation's grant program will award 30 small businesses with $10,000.00 financial stipends and six months of business development services,  totaling a $25,000 investment per business. This initiative aims to progressively impact a broader range of communities, fostering growth and sustainability within the culinary industry.

"I am proud to announce that this year's Restaurant Business Development Program cohort marks a significant milestone, having supported over 100 marginalized culinary businesses nationwide since 2021. As small culinary businesses confront shrinking profits and labor shortages, we must continue to provide a robust support system to ensure their sustainability." stated Juana Collins, Executive Director of Feed the Soul Foundation. 

We are excited to continue this work with Feed the Soul Foundation," said Brianna Morris Grubhub's senior manager of community impact. "Since 2021, Grubhub has partnered with Feed the Foundation to increase access to financial resources and business development opportunities, work made possible by the Grubhub Community Fund. We are committed to being a community partner to the diverse group of restaurants and business owners that makeup the industry and organizations like Feed The Soul that support their ability to sustain and scale their knowledge and operations."

Cohorts will work alongside subject matter experts and consultants during the six-month program that will further their growth and knowledge of the restaurant industry:

Financial literacy training and financial coaching

Business operations

Human resources 

Advertising and marketing 

Group consultation from industry experts

The awarded cohort includes the following businesses:   

Autentica Taqueria (Miami, FL) 

Black Coffee Lounge (Cincinnati,OH)

Cocina Consuelo (New York, NY)

Comfort Foodies (Houston, TX)

conVIDA Cocktail Lounge (Caguas, PR)

Cranky Granny's Sweet Rolls (Pflugerville, TX)

Darrow's New Orleans Grill (Carson, CA)

Farina Pasta and Noodle (Philadelphia, PA)

Fluffy's Sno-Balls (Long Beach, CA)

Fonda Santa Rosa (Houston, TX)

Foode (Fredericksburg, VA)

FruiTea Bubbles Cafe (Smyrna, GA)

Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen (Seattle, WA)

Kwench Juice Cafe (Apex, NC)

Luliet Creamery and Bake Shop (Spring, TX)

Lulu's Sweets Boutique (West Chester, OH)

Mamajuana (Houston, TX)

Meek's Vegan Pizza (Houston, TX)

R & R Breakfast Spot (Chino, CA)

Slutty Salsa (Memphis, TN)

Sugar Euphoria (Raleigh, NC)

Tea's Me Cafe (Indianapolis, IN)

The Jibarito Stop (Chicago, IL)

The Oven Pizzeria (Seaside, CA)

The Palm Coffee Bar (Burbank, CA)

Townie Bagels (Palm Springs, CA)

Tre's Street Kitchen (Baton Rouge, LA)

Twisted Plants (Milwaukee, WI)

Win Win Coffee (Philadelphia, PA)

Yaya Empanadas, (Austin, TX)

Since its inception in 2020, Feed The Soul Foundation has strived to create programs that provide sustainability and growth to small culinary businesses. By the end of 2023, the foundation celebrated the following milestones:

Invested $1,985,000 in financial and business development support to 84 marginalized culinary business across the nation

Aided culinary businesses across the nation with $46,000 in emergency funds to assist with unforeseen damages and natural disasters through its Emergency Relief Fund

Awarded $76,000 in scholarships to high school culinary programs, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Hispanic Serving Institutions to support culinary, hospitality, and business students

Developed an internship program and distributed $59,000 in student stipends, in addition to providing workforce training to 15 minority college students studying small business marketing, marketing research, and public relations

Feed the Soul Foundation will begin taking applications for the 2025 program in November 2024. Extending its efforts in fostering growth within the culinary community, Feed the Soul Foundation will be hosting its second annual Global Culinary Conference from January 26-29, 2025 in Houston, TX.  Registration will commence in August 2024. For more information about Feed the Soul Foundation, please visit feedthesoulfou.org.

About Feed the Soul Foundation

Feed the Soul Foundation was established in 2020 to aid marginalized entrepreneurs in the culinary industry with business development resources and support to foster sustainable business growth. The Restaurant Business Development Fund supports marginalized business owners with business development scholarships and emergency funding. 

U.S. Department of State Honors 19 Colleges and Universities as Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders

The U.S. Department of State recognizes 19 Historically Blacks Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders for their notable engagement with the Fulbright Program during the 2023-2024 academic year. The Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders initiative celebrates Fulbright's partnership with HBCUs and encourages administrators, faculty and students to participate in the Fulbright Program. It also highlights HBCUs as a destination for international students and scholars.

The 19 HBCU Institutional Leaders are:

• Alcorn State University (Mississippi)
• Bennett College (North Carolina)
• Fayetteville State University (North Carolina)
• Florida A&M University (Florida)
• Howard University (District of Columbia)
• Huston-Tillotson University (Texas)
• Jackson State University (Mississippi)
• Jarvis Christian University (Texas)
• LeMoyne-Owen College (Tennessee)
• Lincoln University (Pennsylvania)
• Mississippi Valley State University (Mississippi)
• Morgan State University (Maryland)
• North Carolina A&T State University (North Carolina)
• North Carolina Central University (North Carolina)
• Prairie View A&M University (Texas)
• Spelman College (Georgia)
• Tennessee State University (Tennessee)
• Virginia State University (Virginia)
• Xavier University of Louisiana (Louisiana)

The announcement of the 2024 Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders was made on September 10, 2024 in advance of the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference hosted by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken congratulated each Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader, saying this designation "is a testament to your institution's dedication to promoting global engagement and international understanding."

"The U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Program are committed to reflecting the full diversity of the United States," said Scott Weinhold, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. He emphasized that HBCU engagement with the Fulbright Program "builds meaningful relationships between communities and people around the world." 

Howard University president Dr. Ben Vinson III shared, "Our Fulbrighters return to the Howard community with fresh insights, a deepened cultural understanding, and a broadened worldview, laying the foundation for their personal and professional growth. Their work has an enduring and positive impact on communities and institutions, at home and abroad."

As the U.S. government's flagship international academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program implements a wide range of initiatives to ensure that its participants reflect the diversity of U.S. society and societies abroad. In addition to its partnerships with HBCUs, the Fulbright Program works with Diversity Abroad, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange, UNCF, and the White House Initiative on HBCUs, among others.

Learn more about the Fulbright Program at https://fulbrightprogram.org. 

Professor at the University of Arizona Global Campus receives Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award

Karen Ivy, assistant dean and professor of Technology Studies in the Forbes School of Business and Technology® at the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), was honored with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. The award ceremony took place on July 27, 2024, at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA, in conjunction with the Astronaut Reunion ceremony hosted by SHADES OF BLUE. Chief Apostle Kenneth Curry, President Biden's certifying agent for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award made the award presentations.

The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest level of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, bestowed by the President of the United States, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to community service and made significant contributions to society. Dr. Ivy’s recognition highlights her commitment to educating and inspiring youth in technology and leadership, both in the United States and globally.

“I feel honored to receive this prestigious award and very proud to be recognized with outstanding U.S. astronauts and aviators,” said Ivy. “My goal is to inspire others to achieve their educational and career goals, and to explore their passion to the fullest!”

The event, presented by SHADES OF BLUE, also honored former and current astronauts and space aviators. Invited guests include notable astronauts such as Ed Dwight Jr., Charles F. Bolden, Guy Bluford, and Victor Glover, among others. The evening celebrated the remarkable achievements of these space pioneers and their contributions to aviation and aerospace.

SHADES OF BLUE is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing young people with the educational opportunities, training and employment assistance needed to pursue careers in the aviation and aerospace industries, and to assist educators with the development of curricula that will prepare students for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Design (STEAMD++) industries.

“Dr. Ivy's dedication to advancing technology education and her impact on students' lives is truly inspiring,” said Maja Zelihic, dean of the Forbes School of Business and Technology® at UAGC. “Her work embodies the spirit of service and excellence that this award represents.”

Ivy is the founder of the global youth leadership program, “U.S. to Uganda,” supports the SHADES OF BLUE organization, and hosts community learning workshops and seminars to promote the development of business and technology skills and to encourage youth and adults to pursue career directions in the STEM fields. This focus underscores her influential role in promoting STEM education and her passion for empowering the next generation of leaders.

ALLEN MEDIA GROUP’S ‘HBCU GO’ PARTNERS WITH PROCTER & GAMBLE FOR THE 2024 FOOTBALL SEASON

Allen Media Group’s (AMG) HBCU GO – AMG’s free-streaming digital platform and the leading media provider for the nation’s 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) – proudly announces an exciting new partnership with Procter & Gamble (P&G) for the 2024 football season. P&G is the presenting sponsor of exciting new programming and activations airing this season including:

• 2024 HBCU GO SPORTS KICK OFF SHOW (aired Saturday, August 24)

• HBCU GO’s first-ever live, on campus “2024 HBCU GO SPORTS PRE-GAME LIVE KICK-OFF SHOW” leading into the biggest games of the season including the Southern Heritage Classic, three Homecoming games, plus the rival match-up between Mississippi Valley vs. Jackson State.

• Brand-led commercial campaign entitled “THIS IS HOW WE HBCYOU” will run during the football season.

The P&G #HowWeHBCYOU brand commercial campaign, which AMG produced, recognizes the importance of supporting HBCU schools and students to foster their success and continued growth. 

“P&G truly understands the valuable, untapped audience that HBCU GO can deliver,” said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group. “This new super-charged partnership with HBCU GO highlights P&G’s continued efforts to reach audiences through Black-owned media partners in authentic ways, such as HBCU Education and Culture.”

Eric Austin, Vice President, Global Marketing & Media Innovation at Procter & Gamble said “we strive to meet the unique needs of all consumers. Together with Allen Media Group’s HBCU GO we are able to authentically connect and support Black consumers —in everyday life, with superior brand innovation at relevant cultural moments.”

Hosted by Jasmine McKoy, former Carolina Panthers Safety Tre Boston and HBCU Gameday’s Tolly Carr, the “2024 HBCU GO SPORTS PRE-GAME LIVE KICK-OFF SHOW” will give fans of the four major HBCU Football conferences LIVE access to all the interviews, predictions, and game strategy as well as a taste of HBCU culture. Presented across five episodes that kicked off August 24, the live show will visit classics and homecomings throughout the season, bringing in great crowds and fanbases of these exciting matchups. The schedule includes September 14 - Southern Heritage Classic: Tennessee State vs Arkansas Pine Bluff; October 12 - Bethune Cookman vs Alabama A&M - Homecoming; October 19 - Arkansas Pine Bluff vs Grambling State - Homecoming; October 26 - Jackson State vs Bethune Cookman - Homecoming; November 9 - Mississippi Valley vs. Jackson State.

The “HBCUYOU” campaign will run on HBCU GO throughout the season and consist of one “hero” commercial spot and 14 individual brand spots. The campaign focuses on supporting students through their everyday needs and personal care, following the major life moments of an HBCU student. Allen Media Group tapped theGrio Executive Producers to lead the production, leaning on a deep understanding of the Black audience and HBCU culture to drive relevancy throughout the creative storylines.

AMG’s FREE-streaming digital platform HBCU GO brings together major HBCU NCAA conferences, with major market carriage across broadcast television, cable, satellite, and digital platforms. HBCU GO recently announced 95% nationwide clearance for their 2024 football season. In addition to the previously announced carriage deal with CBS owned-and-operated (O&O) duopoly stations, HBCU GO has secured new distribution with FOX O&O stations including Los Angeles (KCOP-TV) and Chicago (WPWR-TV), as well as distribution on the Armed Forces Network; plus 15 new local markets.

HBCU GO kicked off its 2024 football season schedule on Saturday, August 31. This HBCU GO third season kickoff features a total of 26 football matchups featuring teams representing the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) -- including the Southern Heritage Classic, homecoming games, and the CIAA Football Championship.

For more information about HBCU GO, visit HBCUGO.tv or follow the streaming network on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. Find out where to watch and download the FREE app at HBCUGO.tv/how to watch.

WATCH LIVE STREAM: Harris and Trump presidential debate

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump face off Tuesday night for their first and possibly only debate before Election Day. Watch a live stream of the debate below:

‘UNITE FOR AMERICA’ LIVE STREAMING EVENT FOR KAMALA HARRIS HOSTED BY OPRAH WINFREY

‘UNITE FOR AMERICA’ LIVE STREAMING EVENT HOSTED BY OPRAH WINFREY IN COLLABORATION WITH
‘WIN WITH BLACK WOMEN’ AND OVER 140 ‘WIN WITH HARRIS’ GRASSROOTS GROUPS
ON SEPTEMBER 19 AT 8 PM/ET 

‘Unite for America’ Event to Bring Together Voters in Battleground States and Beyond in Advance of November 5th Election Day

  

WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 9, 2024) – Oprah Winfrey, in collaboration with Win with Black Women, will host a live-streaming event “Unite for America” to bring together grassroots groups that have each hosted their own Zooms in support of Vice President Kamala Harris to take place on September 19 at 8 pm/ET across multiple platforms including Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok and Twitch.

** To learn more and register to join the event, please visit UniteForAmerica2024 **

In this live, free, streaming event, Oprah brings together voters from all over the country to discuss why they are supporting Kamala Harris, what’s at stake in this election and why voting in this presidential election matters. In addition to those joining online, Oprah will invite 400 local voters to join this discussion in person. The event will serve as a call to action to work in communities throughout battleground states to register people to vote and build support in advance of November 5th. 

The root of this event took hold in July, just a few hours after Vice President Kamala Harris announced her plans to run for President of the United States, when the conveners of Win With Black Women held a collective roll call, led by founder Jotaka Eaddy, which quickly blossomed to 90,000 Black women tuning in to show their support across a variety of platforms. That grassroots surge, led and centered by Black women, inspired a variety of groups to host their own Zoom calls including White Dudes for Harris, Win with Black Men, Comics for Kamala, Republicans for Harris, Latino Men for Kamala and many more. In response to this organic tidal wave of voter support around the country, Oprah Winfrey and Eaddy connected to discuss the idea of holding one unified call for voters across the country. 

Win With Black Women’s catalyzing call raised $1.5 million in just three hours, with over $20 million being raised to date by the over 140 groups now supporting the Harris/Waltz presidential campaign.  

"This ‘Unite for America’ call will be a powerful moment that demonstrates the urgency that we all feel in this moment and more importantly the impact of our collective activation to move our nation forward with Vice President Kamala Harris as our 47th President,” said Jotaka Eaddy, social impact strategist and founder of Win with Black Women (WWBW). “I cannot think of anyone better to host this event than Oprah Winfrey, who has brought Americans of different generations, backgrounds, and experiences together in conversation for decades.”

“The diversity of groups represented in this voter rally event – from Oprah Winfrey, Win With Black Women, Win With Black Men to groups like White Dudes for Harris and Swifties for Kamala – adds strength to the movement,” said Khalil Thompson of Win With Black Men. “To witness such an organic groundswell of support for a vision of the future rooted in equality, progress, and joy with a future that is soon to be led, for the first time, by a Black woman…that’s life changing.”

“We understand the importance of showing up for progress that benefits all women,” said Shannon Watts, organizer of White Women: Answer the Call and Show Up for Kamala Harris. “There is no better person than Oprah Winfrey to lead this event and bring together so many diverse groups of people who are fiercely determined to uplift every community in our nation and elect Kamala Harris.”

“You have seen so many groups come together because we realize that an injustice to one of us is an injustice to all of us,” said Regina Montoya, co-lead of Latinas for Harris. “The next several weeks will be crucial for the future of all of these groups, which is why we are thrilled to join and show our solidarity. We are ready to Unite for America and show what these groups are capable of.”

"We couldn't be more excited to be participating in Unite for America,” said Ross Morales Rocketto of White Dudes for Harris. “We stand on the shoulders of the incredible work of Win with Black Women and Win With Black Men. We exist to create space in the Democratic Party for white men to do their part to help elect Kamala Harris to become the 47th President of the United States."

“As the official AANHPI affinity group working with the Harris Walz campaign to mobilize the South Asian community nationwide, we know the importance of South Asian voters as a key voting bloc in many battleground states,” said Harini Krishnan of South Asians for Harris. “From knocking on doors to recurring phonebanks to combatting misinformation through digital media campaigns to assembling a voter protection team, we are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that South Asian voters are the margin of victory this cycle in electing Kamala Harris as our first Black and South Asian woman President.”

“JD Vance and the Project 2025 agenda would reduce us to our roles as mothers or the expectation of becoming one, but our value extends far beyond that,” said Blaire Postman of Cat Ladies for Kamala. “We’re proud to stand with everyone on this call to create a future where women are defined by their impact, not outdated stereotypes.”

“This Unite For America rally represents a resurgence of joy, hope, and optimism,” said Pastor Mike McBride of Win With the Black Church. “That is because we are not gathering just to celebrate an individual – we’re proud to be coalescing around a shared set of values, like justice, equity, and the betterment of our communities.”

Unite For America Event Details:
When: Thursday, September 19th, 2024 at 8pm ET
Where: Register to join the conversation at UniteForAmerica2024.com

Ferlanda Fox Nixon Esq. Named President & CEO of NRBP

The Board of Directors of the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) announced today that Ferlanda Fox Nixon, Esq. is joining the organization as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective September 16, 2024. Nixon will fill the role currently held by Chip Hallock who is retiring after 25 years of distinguished service. As president and CEO, Nixon will serve as the senior officer of the organization, responsible for all administrative and management functions while executing NRBP’s mission to strengthen the greater Newark, NJ business community through connections, resources, and advocacy.

Nixon comes to NRBP from senior leadership roles with the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, where she most recently served as Chief of Policy and External Affairs. Nixon and Hallock will work together during her initial weeks to ensure a smooth organizational transition.

“I am excited and honored to join the Newark Regional Business Partnership team as president and CEO,” Nixon said. “Newark is a terrific regional business community with unlimited potential. I’m looking forward to working with the Board, staff and members as we proactively engage with businesses of all sizes to positively impact the community and the region.”

Jennifer Mazawey, NRBP’s Board Chair, is delighted that Nixon has accepted the role. “We are very excited that Ferlanda will be leading NRBP and helping us to forward our mission. Ferlanda brings an outstanding record of success in partnering with a wide variety of constituents and is recognized as a collaborator. We look forward to her leadership now and in the years to come.”

“It is a pleasure to have Ferlanda take the reins,” said Chip Hallock, NRBP outgoing president and CEO. “She is the consummate professional and I am confident that she will successfully execute and expand on NRBP’s mission and vision. Her leadership will help continue to grow NRBP’s impact on and in the greater Newark business community.”

Nixon brings over 30 years of leadership experience as a corporate attorney, independent business consultant, nonprofit leader, and chamber of commerce executive. She has an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Syracuse University and a JD from Georgetown University Law Center. She also holds the professional certification of Certified Association Executive from the American Society of Association Executives and is a graduate of the Institute for Organization Management from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The NRBP Board of Directors retained Waverly Partners, a national executive search firm, to assist in the recruiting effort. Waverly Partners contacted hundreds of executives at chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and other public and private sector leaders over the course of the search. Nixon was selected following a comprehensive process undertaken by a committee of the NRBP Board.

About the Newark Regional Business Partnership
Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) is a diverse membership organization whose mission is to strengthen the business community through connections, resources, and advocacy. NRBP connects its members to partners and resources that can help strengthen their business and increase the economic competitiveness of Newark and the region. More than 300 corporations, small businesses, organizations, and professional service firms are members of NRBP.

Black Education Advocates Demand ABC News Presidential Debate Address Crisis in Black Student Achievement

The Freedom Coalition for Charter Schools (FCCS) is demanding that when Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris take the stage for Tuesday's ABC News Presidential Debate, they address the education crisis affecting Black children.

So far this election season, mainstream media and the candidates have spent too much time focusing on issues rather than the massive failures that are taking place in America's classrooms, and no group has been impacted more than African American children.

"We need to focus on the needs of Black children," said Sarah Carpenter, founder and CEO of the Memphis-based Powerful Parent Movement. "Saving democracy is a vital issue, as well as addressing the border, but America cannot be a world leader in the future if our children are not getting a high-quality education."

In 2019, Carpenter's organization collaborated with other Black educators and activists to form FCCS  to advocate for Black children and parental choice, including:

1. Dr. Howard Fuller, Former Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools; Founder and Director of the Institute for the Transformation of Learning at Marquette University
2. Jalen Rose, former NBA star; Founder & Board President of the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, Detroit, MI
3. Dr. Steve Perry, educator, author, Founder of Capital Preparatory Schools, FCCS Board Chair
4. Geoffrey Canada, Founder and President of the Harlem Children's Zone
5. Sarah Carpenter – Executive Director of Memphis Lift
6. Dr. Charlene Reid, Co-CEO of Excellence Community Schools, Bronx, NY and Stamford, CT
7. Rev. Al Cockfield- Founder & CEO Lamad Academy Charter, Co-Founder & Board Chair BLACC, FCCS Board Member
8. Emory Edwards, FCCS Board Member, Indianapolis, IN
9. Jeremiah Grace, Executive Director of the Black Latino Asian Charter Coalition (BLACC)
10. Jay Artis-Wright, Executive Director of FCCS
11. Sonya Thomas, Executive Director of Nashville Propel
12. Trenace Dorsey-Hollins, Executive Director of Parent Shield Fort Worth

According to the National College Attainment Network, "In every state, Black students were less likely to demonstrate college and career readiness compared to White students." The 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress reported that only 13% of Black fourth-graders are proficient in reading and 11% in math, reflecting significant declines in post-pandemic performance.

A recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal highlights that while Democrats focus on student loan debt and increasing teacher pay, they are falling short on K-12 education reform. At the same time, an August article in Politico (discusses how the GOP is losing the academic culture wars).  A survey from FCCS this summer reveals that, in swing states, there is a strong demand among Black and Latino swing state voters for improvements in K-12 education that embrace more options and cultural relevance, which includes school choice and access to courses such as African American studies.

"Allowing the majority-white teachers' union to be the loudest voice on education policy ignores the diverse needs of students of color and perpetuates inequalities we've seen in schools for over 70 years," said FCCS Board Chair and Founder of Capital Prep Academy, Dr. Steve Perry.

This prominent group of Black education advocates are demanding that both parties provide urgent solutions to an education crisis that is predominantly impacting Black students. They are offering their expertise to support policies that will close the opportunity gap by:

• Improving School choice.
• Increasing access to college and career readiness.
• Expanding academic offerings that include cultural studies.
• Expanding the opportunities for African Americans to open and teach in existing public schools.

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's new book 'Lovely One: A Memoir'

In her inspiring, intimate memoir, the first Black woman to ever be appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States chronicles her extraordinary life story.

With this unflinching account, Justice Ketanji BrownJackson invites readers into her life and world, tracing her family’s ascent from segregation to her confirmation on America’s highest court within the span of one generation.

Named “Ketanji Onyika,” meaning “Lovely One,” based on a suggestion from her aunt, a Peace Corps worker stationed in West Africa, Justice Jackson learned from her educator parents to take pride in her heritage since birth. She describes her resolve as a young girl to honor this legacy and realize her dreams: from hearing stories of her grandparents and parents breaking barriers in the segregated South, to honing her voice in high school as an oratory champion and student body president, to graduating magna cum laude from Harvard, where she performed in musical theater and improv and participated in pivotal student organizations.

Here, Justice Jackson pulls back the curtain, marrying the public record of her life with what is less known. She reveals what it takes to advance in the legal profession when most people in power don’t look like you, and to reconcile a demanding career with the joys and sacrifices of marriage and motherhood.

Through trials and triumphs, Justice Jackson’s journey will resonate with dreamers everywhere, especially those who nourish outsized ambitions and refuse to be turned aside. This moving, openhearted tale will spread hope for a more just world, for generations to come.

Check out Lovely One: A Memoir on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/3AOS3J1

The HBCU Tour Kicks Off with a Successful Launch at Florida A&M University

Florida Rising's HBCU Tour has officially hit the ground running with an electrifying kickoff at Florida A&M University (FAMU)! The inaugural event, held during Set Market Fridays as part of the South Carolina State vs. FAMU football game weekend, energized students and the community, marking the beginning of a dynamic series of engagements across historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

The atmosphere at FAMU was electric as students gathered to participate in the first stop of The HBCU Tour, an effort dedicated to mobilizing Black and Brown communities ahead of the upcoming elections. The event highlighted the importance of voter participation, with students eagerly discussing their voting plans and solidifying their commitment to making their voices heard.

"We're thrilled with the turnout and enthusiasm we witnessed at FAMU," said Nubian Roberts, Black Constituency Director of Florida Rising. "This event set the tone for what we anticipate will be a powerful and impactful tour, as we work together to empower students and ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to participate in the electoral process."

The HBCU Tour aims to engage students in meaningful conversations about social, economic, and racial justice, while also providing them with the tools to take action in their communities. As part of this initiative, students are encouraged to create a voting plan, register to vote, and stay informed about key issues affecting their lives.

The next stops on The HBCU Tour include:

Florida Memorial University on September 7, 2024, during the Edward Waters at Florida Memorial University football game

Bethune Cookman University on September 21, 2024, during the Clark Atlanta University at Bethune Cookman University football game

Edward Waters University on September 28, 2024, during the Tuskegee at Edward Waters University football game

"The energy and commitment we've seen from students at FAMU are truly inspiring," said Dwight Bullard, Senior Political Advisor of Florida Rising. "Their eagerness to engage in the democratic process and their passion for driving change reaffirm the importance of this tour. We're excited to continue this journey across other HBCUs, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among students as we head into the election season."

Florida Rising continues to bring together Black and Brown communities across the state to advance social, economic, and racial justice, with The HBCU Tour serving as a crucial platform for engaging the next generation of leaders.

For more information about The HBCU Tour, including upcoming events and resources, please visit www.thehbcutour.com.

New Harris-Walz campaign ad shows impact of Project 2025 on Black voters

The Harris-Walz campaign is using the conservative Project 2025 plan to court Black voters. A new ad Titled “Backwards,” shows how Black Americans would be hurt if the Project 2025 agenda went forward under a second term for former President Trump.

Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division Highlights Efforts to Combat Hate Crimes Targeting Black People

Next month is the 15th anniversary of the Matthew Shepard & James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, a landmark law that the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has used since 2009 to prosecute those who commit hate crimes. Over the next several months, the Civil Rights Division will highlight their work to combat hate crimes. Today’s blog post will discuss their work in combating hate crimes that target Black people.

In announcing the hate crime prosecution of the man accused of murdering 10 Black people in June 2022 at the Tops Supermarket in Buffalo, New York, and wounding three other people, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland observed that “The Justice Department was founded more than 150 years ago with the first principal task of protecting Black Americans — and our democracy — from white supremacist violence. Today, we approach that task with the same degree of urgency as we did then.”

Also in June 2022, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division, emphasized the importance of this mission: “From the thousands of lynchings of Black people, to the deaths of Emmett Till, the four little girls killed at the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church and James Byrd, to the nine peaceful worshippers gunned down in Charleston, South Carolina, to the senseless murder of Ahmaud Arbery — racially motivated violence is a stain on our nation’s history.”

And, addressing the convictions of three men in February 2022 who killed Ahmaud Arbery just because he was Black, Attorney General Garland affirmed that “The Justice Department does have the authority — and will not hesitate to act — when individuals commit violent acts that are motivated by bias or hatred.”

A key source of the authority the Attorney General was citing is the Matthew Shepard & James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act. That statute and a broad array of other federal laws provide the Justice Department multiple tools to hold perpetrators of hate crimes accountable. One of the namesakes of the Act, James Byrd Jr., was murdered 26 years ago in Jasper, Texas, by three white men, two of them avowed white supremacists. They chained 49-year-old Byrd by the ankles to the back of a pick-up truck, dragged him nearly three miles to his death and then abandoned his decapitated, mutilated body.

This hate crimes statute is a fitting legacy for Mr. Byrd.

One of the tools the Shepard-Byrd Act creates is 18 U.S.C. § 249. That provision authorizes the Justice Department to prosecute anyone who causes or attempts to cause bodily injury using a firearm, dangerous weapon, fire or an explosive or incendiary device “because of the actual or perceived race, color, religion or national origin of any person.” The punishments for violating this provision are substantial, including, in certain circumstances, the death penalty. That was one of the statutes invoked against the Buffalo shooter and the killers of Ahmaud Arbery.

The department has other tools at its disposal as well. Under 18 U.S.C 245 (1967), it can charge violent interference with federally protected rights because of the victim’s race or color. It can bring hate crime charges under the Fair Housing Act (1968), Damage to Religious Property Act, also known as the Church Arson Prevention Act (1996) or Emmett Till Antilynching Act (2022). And the Ku Klux Klan Act has been on the books since 1871.

Here are just a few examples of the department’s hate crimes prosecutions from the first eight months of 2024:

• In July, a Kansas man pleaded guilty to two counts of interference with federally protected activities, two counts of interstate threats and one count of interference with housing for brandishing a firearm and using racial slurs to threaten two Black juveniles, using his firearm to threaten a Black adult who intervened to support the children and threatening to hurt or kill any Black person who visited a white woman in her home.
• In June, a Michigan man was sentenced to 26 months in prison for conspiring with his co-members of a white supremacist group to threaten Black and Jewish people in the exercise of their rights.
• In April, a man in Florida was sentenced to five years in prison for attacking two Black women with a gun.
• In March, a man in Maine pleaded guilty to sending racist death threats to a Black family living in his apartment complex.
• In February, a South Carolina man was convicted of killing a Black transgender woman.

In 2023 as well, the department vigorously prosecuted hate crimes involving violence or threats against Black people. Those cases included:

• In December, we charged a Florida man with a federal hate crime for murdering a Black man in the Kansas City, Missouri, area.
• In October, we charged a Georgia man for making racially motivated threats and shooting at his neighbor, a Black man, in violation of the criminal provisions of the Fair Housing Act.
• In October, a Florida man was sentenced for using his car to attack a group of Black men who were surveying land for a possible memorial regarding the 1923 Rosewood Massacre in Florida.
• In July, an Oklahoma man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for a racially motivated attack on a Black victim in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

This is a small sample of the many similar cases the department brought in 2023. Since January 2021, the department has charged more than 140 defendants with bias-motivated crimes in more than 125 cases. Most of these hate crime prosecutions have involved violence or threats against Black Americans. These totals do not include the other matters the department has handled involving bias against Black people, including findings of racial discrimination by police departments in Minneapolis, Louisville, Kentucky, and Phoenix, among others.

Prosecutions alone are not enough in the work to combat hate. Separate and apart from the laws used by the Justice Department to prosecute perpetrators of hate crimes, the Justice Department has also taken steps to improve hate crime reporting, encourage better data collection and expand public education campaigns concerning hate crimes, especially at the state and local levels. Laws like the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act and Jabara-Heyer NO HATE Act (2021) have helped strengthen outreach and data-collection efforts across the country.

The Civil Rights Division — indeed, the entire nation — is profoundly indebted to the many heroes of the Civil Rights Movement, both leaders and foot soldiers, who sacrificed so much to advance racial justice in this country. We are determined to honor their sacrifices and to redeem their legacy by combatting bigotry, including hate crimes against Black people, wherever it rears its ugly head. We have done that, and we will continue along that path.