Black Civic Leadership Initiative

1. Develop Black Civic Leadership

Build a powerful pipeline of informed, confident, and skilled Black civic leaders capable of influencing policy, improving local governance, and strengthening community representation.

Key Objective:

• Train at least 300 community leaders through a comprehensive Civic Leadership Academy that covers civic education, policy literacy, public speaking, conflict resolution, community organizing, and ethics in government.

2. Support Black Candidates for Boards, Commissions, and Public Office

Increase equitable representation by equipping aspiring leaders to step into positions of influence.

Strategies:

• Provide candidate readiness training (campaign basics, fundraising, policy development).

• Create a centralized database of local board/commission openings.

• Offer application support, interview coaching, and endorsement pathways.

• Collaborate with partner organizations to ensure access to opportunities.

Intended Outcome:
A measurable increase in Black representation on local boards, commissions, advisory councils, and elected offices.

3. Deepen Mentorship and Leadership Networks

Build long-term support systems that sustain and empower Black leaders throughout their civic journey.

Approach:

• Establish mentorship cohorts pairing emerging leaders with experienced public servants, elected officials, and civic advocates.

• Host quarterly leadership summits, networking mixers, and cross-sector roundtables.

• Create a digital Leadership Network Hub for ongoing collaboration, resource-sharing, and peer coaching.

Outcome:
A durable, intergenerational leadership community that strengthens civic participation and expands pathways for future leaders.