Rep. Ayanna Pressley is sounding the alarm on the economic challenges facing Black women while pushing for policies aimed at protecting jobs and building Black wealth.
During a conversation with the Black Information Network at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, the Massachusetts Democrat discussed Black unemployment, housing, civil rights and what she described as the "discipline of hope."
Pressley, a member of the House Financial Services Committee, highlighted the disproportionate number of Black women who have left or lost jobs in recent years and reiterated her calls for the Federal Reserve to uphold its mandate of maximum employment.
She also discussed policies she supports to address economic disparities, including a federal jobs guarantee, universal childcare, paid leave, pay equity and greater access to capital for Black women entrepreneurs.
On housing, Pressley highlighted her Appraisal Modernization Act, which was enacted into law in July. The measure is intended to address bias in home appraisals, which can affect homeowners' ability to build generational wealth.
Pressley also addressed civil rights concerns and a recent letter she led alongside 59 congressional colleagues calling on the Department of Justice and FBI to investigate incidents involving Black people found hanging across the country. Lawmakers cited the Emmett Till Antilynching Act while requesting thorough federal investigations into the deaths.
Reflecting on challenges facing Black communities and political leaders, Pressley emphasized what she called the "discipline of hope," describing hope as something that requires continued action rather than simply optimism.
She also reiterated her support for reparations and encouraged continued efforts to build and protect Black political and economic power.
Listen to the full conversation below!
For more of our interviews from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 55th Annual Legislative Conference, check out Our Voices!
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