Standing on Business: Miami-Dade County Legislators Advocate at the Congressional Black Caucus
By the Culture
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) was marked by powerful speeches from our leaders, highlighting the importance of community, resilience, and progress in shaping the future of Black Americans. Miami-Dade County Commissioners played a significant role in delivering key messages that resonated deeply with attendees during ALC.
The Miami-Dade Meets DMV event gathered Miamians to hear the importance of where we are as a community. As Commissioner Keon Hardemon took the stage, he reflected on the broader impact of policies that extend life expectancy, and improve quality of life, inviting the audience to consider how the real time effects of policy affect their daily lives. He posed the thought of what they would give for more time with loved ones. His message underscored the significance of public policy in shaping individual lives and the collective future.
Hardemon painted a picture of Miami-Dade County’s unique challenges, particularly the minority status of Black residents in a predominantly Hispanic, Republican region. He emphasized that despite these challenges, Miami-Dade has become a model for progress. The county is working tirelessly on transportation improvements, economic development, and poverty reduction, all while ensuring that policing reforms are prioritized. “We are a model for the nation,” Hardemon added, encouraging other communities to follow their example.
Another impactful voice at the event was Commissioner Marleine Bastien, who echoed a message shared earlier in the day at the prayer breakfast: “Pray and vote.” Bastien emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on solutions rather than complaints, especially in the face of difficult times. Her rallying cry, “Pray and vote,” became a unifying mantra for the audience, serving as both a spiritual and civic call to action.
Commissioner Kionne L. McGee stressed that fitting in has often cost individuals their integrity and peace, and now is the time for action – to stand out not blend in. “Standing out,” he said, “is how we will make our voices heard, especially at the voting booth.” McGhee called on attendees to embrace their individuality and fight for systemic change, reminding them that America’s foundation was built by people who refused to conform.
The Congressional Black Caucus event was an inspiring gathering of leaders who are deeply committed to uplifting their communities. Through a combination of policy, prayer, and voting, Miami-Dade County’s officials demonstrated that they are not only fighting for their constituents but also setting an example for the nation.
