By Ashlee Banks
Special to the AFRO
At the 2025 Democratic Issues Conference in Leesburg, Virginia, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) held a press conference to address critical issues affecting Black communities and the nation at large. The CBC, known as the “Conscience of the Congress,” continues its legacy of advocating for justice, equity and legislative solutions that uplift marginalized communities.
On March 13, CBC Chairwoman Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.-9) and other caucus members held a press briefing during which they criticized the Trump administration and Republican lawmakers for pushing legislation that disproportionately harms vulnerable communities.
“We have gathered [here] to discuss the state of Project 2025, America, and the impact that Donald Trump’s tariffs, taxes and terminations are having on Black communities across our country,” Clarke told reporters.
“Instead of working to provide greater access to economic opportunity and lower the cost of living on day one as promised, President Trump’s executive orders and economic policies are continuing to raise the cost of living, and our communities are disproportionately bearing the negative impacts,” the congresswoman added.
U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.-4) slammed Trump, tech billionaire Elon Musk and House Republicans for prioritizing the wealthy at the expense of everyday Americans, especially the Black community.
“Donald Trump, Elon Musk and House Republicans have one objective–to screw America, and Black America is at the top of that list,” Horsford told reporters.
“[Trump has cut] $2 trillion on the backs of American people by cutting our health care, defunding Social Security and hurting our veterans, all to give a tax break to big business, to tech tycoons and billionaires,” the former chairman added.
The CBC vehemently condemned the recent assaults on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. They underscored the importance of DEI initiatives in promoting equal opportunities and addressing systemic inequalities in various sectors, including education, employment and the federal workforce. The caucus called for a united front to defend these programs, asserting that dismantling DEI efforts would reverse decades of progress in civil rights.
U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.-43) told reporters that she is concerned that Trump is on the verge of provoking a civil war.
Credit: AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)
“This president is putting us in a position where hungry people are going to be on the street, where nonprofits who are waiting for their checks, seniors who are waiting for their Social Security check will not get it, where poor families with children will not get what they believe the government has agreed to do,” said Waters.
“So, when that happens, what does Trump expect? Oh, I believe he expects confrontation,” she added.
However, the congresswoman said CBC members plan to follow Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s nonviolent approach and use of protest to push back against the Trump administration. By channeling Dr. King’s legacy of peaceful resistance, the CBC aims to not only challenge the administration’s policies but also drive meaningful change, particularly in the fight for economic justice.
During the press conference, they introduced the Black Wealth Agenda, a comprehensive plan aimed at closing the racial wealth gap. This agenda includes policies to promote Black homeownership, support Black-owned businesses, and ensure equitable access to capital. The CBC stressed that economic empowerment is crucial for the overall advancement of Black communities and the nation’s economic health.
The integrity of the democratic process was another critical topic addressed by the CBC. They highlighted ongoing efforts to suppress votes in Black and minority communities, calling for robust legislation to protect voting rights. The caucus reiterated its commitment to ensuring that every citizen has unfettered access to the ballot box, viewing it as fundamental to democracy.
Criminal justice reform remains a pressing issue for the CBC. At the press conference, they discussed strategies to address systemic biases in the justice system, including police reform and sentencing disparities. The caucus advocates for policies that promote accountability and fairness, aiming to build a justice system that truly serves all citizens equitably.
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