Michigan Dem reps. set to attend Congressional Black Caucus Conference in D.C.

Democratic state House members are poised to travel this week to the nation’s capital to attend the Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) 52nd Annual Legislative Conference held Wednesday through Sunday. 

“I am greatly looking forward to this opportunity to convene in D.C.,” said state House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit). “Not only is it a chance to share insights and ideas with fellow Black legislators from across the country but also an opportunity to tell Michigan’s story — a story of unique and diverse constituencies that are united as Michiganders, all of whom deserve an equitable opportunity to thrive.”

While there, state House Democrats expect to “discuss the historical significance of this moment,” according to a press release. Michigan Democrats hold  majorities in the state Legislature for the first since 1984 as well as hold executive positions as governor, attorney general and secretary of state.

The CBC was established in 1971 to put forth policy and legislation that ensured equal rights, opportunity, and access to Black Americans and other marginalized communities. It is a non-partisan body made up of African American members of Congress. Two of its founding members were Democratic U.S. House members Charles Diggs Jr. and John Conyers Jr. of Detroit.

Others members expected to travel to the CBC efforts include state Reps. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids), Stephanie Young (D-Detroit), Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield), Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield), Kimberly Edwards (D-Eastpointe), Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit), Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint), Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw), Helena Scott (D-Detroit) and Jimmie Wilson Jr. (D-Ypsilanti).

“Michigan’s voice is a meaningful one in the national conversation, so my colleagues and I are ensuring it’s heard, and we have a lot to boast about — the people of Michigan are tough, strong and full of grit. Plus, we’re excited to show the rest of the country that this fresh generation of Democratic leaders knows how to put people first by prioritizing their health and wellbeing; our environment and energy; and jobs and the economy,” Tate said.