SPRINGFIELD (March 11, 2024) - The Springfield Urban League (Springfield, IL) is embarking on an exciting initiative called the Freedom Project, in collaboration with the National Parks Service (NPS) and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

 This innovative program is designed to focus on historical education, literacy, leadership skills, and civic engagement among young individuals. Zhavier Harris, the marketing and communications manager for the Springfield Urban League, emphasized the project's aim to empower youth by bridging the gap between past struggles, like the journey from slavery to freedom, and their present realities, instilling a sense of pride and empowerment in their history.

MADISON (March 11, 2024) - The Urban League of Greater Madison's (Madison, WI) Black Business Hub recently hosted a poignant discussion featuring Dr. Richard Harris, who shared his experiences with racial discrimination and his efforts to preserve South Madison as a safe haven for Black families.

During the chat hosted by Dr. Ruben Anthony, President and CEO of the Urban League, Harris recounted his upbringing in 1930s Madison, where he learned valuable lessons from his father about compassion and from his mother, a member of the Women of South Madison, about fighting racial discrimination. Harris fondly remembered the strength of the Black women in his community who stood up against injustice.

The future of our nation. Biden’s State of the Union address touched on our “D3” agenda to Defend Democracy, Demand Diversity, and Defeat Poverty. | Don't miss the gems. Catch the replay as Marc Morial breaks down the main findings and moderates a discussion with fellow freedom fighters. | Relive the epic moments. #EmpowermentSummit2024 was transformative and empowering! Take a look at photos from our week in Washington, D.C. | Where do we stand now? Check out our evaluation of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to meet its promises to Black America. | Energy is the future. Watch an important portion of our inaugural Energy Jobs Convening, where we heard from U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm. | Get your free vaccine. March 11 marks 4 years since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic & though much has changed, the vaccine is still key for your safety. | What do the numbers tell us? Check out an in-depth look at the state of the economy from Dr. Bernard E. Anderson, our Chief Economics Adviser. | National Slam the Scam Day. Scammers target everyone, but there are tips and resources you can use to avoid becoming a victim. Learn more.

By Bernard E. Anderson, PhD
Whitney M. Young Professor Emeritus, The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Chief Economic Advisor, National Urban League

Just released! Dive into this year’s State of Black America report as we unpack our current fight for equality 60 years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. | Tune in virtually! Join us on Tuesday as we kick off the 2024 Legislative Policy Conference and get a sneak peek at this year's State of Black America report. | Get vaxxed for free! The Bridge Access Program was created to ensure that vaccines are available and free for everyone. Get yours for free. | CBS Mornings. Watch as Marc Morial breaks down key State of Black America findings with Gayle King, Tony Dokoupil, and Nate Burleson. | Celebrating women! Register for our FREE webinar on Wednesday as we highlight the pivotal role women play in DEI + much more. | Morning Joe on MSNBC. Do you know what the latest equality gap is between Black and white Americans? See as Marc Morial explains.