I first want to express my sincere gratitude to Rachael Belz, Crystal Brown, and the Ohio Citizen Action organization for supporting my attendance at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference as a professional development opportunity. I recognize what a privilege it was to represent our organization in this space, and I am deeply thankful for the investment made on my behalf.
While I initially expected the conference to focus primarily on structured policy discussions and technical knowledge, the experience proved to be far more profound. It served as a powerful call to action for African Americans to rise, engage, and lead transformative change in our communities through policy, advocacy, and civic participation.
Throughout the conference, I had the privilege of listening to an extraordinary lineup of leaders, including Representatives Sanford Bishop Jr., Bennie Thompson, Joyce Beatty, Troy Carter, Maxine Waters, Terri Sewell, James Clyburn, and Frederica Wilson, as well as Reverend Shavon Arline-Bradley, Academic Author Eric Dyson, National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial, and renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, among others. Each speaker offered deeply moving insights on leadership, equity, and justice, reminding us that progress depends on our collective courage to act boldly, stand together and uplift others.

While in Washington, D.C., I also had the opportunity to visit the National Museum of African American History. That experience deepened the impact of the trip. Walking through the museum; seeing the history, resilience, and achievements of Black Americans, created a powerful connection between the lessons of the past and the calls to action I heard throughout the conference. It was both grounding and inspiring, reminding me of how far we’ve come, and how vital it is to continue pushing forward.
Rather than simply being informative, the conference was deeply inspiring. It reignited a sense of purpose and urgency within me. I left feeling motivated, refreshed, and more aware of the power and responsibility I hold as a black woman in leadership within a political action organization. The experience reinforced the importance of using my voice, my vote, and my position to advocate for change.
Since returning, I’ve actively sought opportunities to expand my engagement in political and community initiatives, strengthen my understanding of public policy, and engage with others who are equally committed to civic leadership and social progress. The experience was not only enriching but transformative; reaffirming my dedication to our organization’s mission and my personal commitment to advancing equity, positive change and empowerment through advocacy, intentional action and impact.
Eboni Mitchell