Rep. Jonathan Jackson is highlighting the connections between Black communities in the United States and across the African diaspora.
During a conversation with the Black Information Network at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, the Illinois Democrat discussed U.S.-Africa relations, the global economy and efforts to protect diversity, equity and inclusion.
Previewing his ALC forum on the impact of foreign aid cuts and tariffs in Africa, Jackson emphasized the continent's importance to global supply chains, particularly through critical minerals used in technology, clean energy and defense.
Jackson criticized U.S. travel restrictions affecting African and Caribbean nations and argued that limiting engagement with other countries could push them toward stronger relationships with nations like China.
He also pointed to Africa's growing global importance. The United Nations projects that more than one in four people worldwide will live in Africa by 2050, while the continent's working-age population is expected to grow significantly.
Turning to issues at home, Jackson discussed his support for diversity, equity and inclusion and the Congressional DEI Caucus he helped launch. The caucus says its mission includes raising awareness about challenges to DEI initiatives and educating lawmakers and stakeholders about their impact.
Jackson also reflected on the influence of his father, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, and the importance of passing civic engagement from one generation to the next.
He encouraged families to make education and civic participation foundational values, arguing that maintaining those traditions is critical to keeping future generations politically engaged.
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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