Photo credit: CBCF
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation will bring Black leaders, policymakers, advocates and community voices together in Washington, D.C., for its 55th Annual Legislative Conference.
The five-day gathering will take place Sept. 16–20, 2026, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. This year, the conference will center on the theme “Rooted. Ready and Rising.”
With more than 100 panel discussions, forums, brain trust sessions and other events, the conference will create space for conversations about political power, civil rights, economic opportunity and Black cultural heritage.
A major gathering for Black leadership
The CBCF’s 55th Legislative Conference comes at a significant moment for discussions about issues affecting Black communities across the country.
Throughout the week, activists, academics, political leaders and other influential voices will examine challenges facing democracy, civil liberties, economic opportunity and social progress.
In addition, Congresswoman Alma Adams and Congressman Glenn Ivey will serve as honorary co-chairs of the conference.
The event will also feature numerous members of Congress. For example, the listed hosts include Reps. Joyce Beatty, James E. Clyburn, Jasmine Crockett, Yvette Clarke, Maxine Waters, Terri Sewell, Ayanna Pressley and Nikema Williams.
Three themes will shape the conversation
This year, the conference will organize much of its programming around three major areas: securing the future, protecting freedoms and uplifting culture.
First, the Securing the Future discussions will examine political, economic, legal and institutional challenges. In addition, sessions will address voting rights, civil rights protections and opportunities to strengthen Black political and economic power.
For instance, one featured conversation, “Where Do We Go From Here? Building Black Political and Economic Power for This Moment,” will focus directly on the future of Black political and economic influence.
Next, the Protecting Our Freedoms programming will focus on civil rights, social justice and equal opportunity. The sessions will also examine attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion in corporate America, criminal justice and constitutional reforms.
Meanwhile, Uplifting Our Culture will explore Black cultural heritage, creativity and the importance of preserving cultural identity. The programming will also examine the African diaspora and Black political participation.
Signature events will highlight the week
Several major events will anchor the conference. Together, they will give attendees opportunities to engage with leaders and explore some of the most important issues facing Black communities.
The Opening Press Conference will take place Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 10 to 11 a.m. ET. The event will feature CBCF leadership and members of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Then, on Thursday, Sept. 17, the National Town Hall will bring political voices together for a broader discussion. Symone D. Sanders-Townsend and Eugene Daniels will serve as moderators.
The conference will also feature a Day of Healing on Saturday, Sept. 19. During the morning gathering, recording artist John P. Kee, Rev. Dr. George L. Parks Jr. and congressional leaders will take part.
Later that evening, the Phoenix Awards will highlight the conference’s major programming. The ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. and will recognize people who have made significant contributions to society while uplifting and empowering the global Black community.
A week focused on action
Beyond the panels and headline events, the CBCF aims to use the conference to encourage collaboration and meaningful discussion about the nation’s future.
As a result, attendees will have opportunities to explore democracy, civil liberties, cultural heritage and other issues that continue to shape Black communities.
Moreover, the conference will connect political leaders with advocates, academics and community voices. That combination can help create conversations that move beyond individual events and toward broader action.
Ultimately, the CBCF’s 55th Annual Legislative Conference will bring together voices focused on where Black communities stand today and where they can go next.
The conference will run from Sept. 16 through Sept. 20 in Washington, D.C., with more than 100 events planned throughout the week.
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