Pasadena Chamber of Commerce’s Post

I was privileged as a board member of Collaborative Healing Initiative Within Communities to attend a press conference yesterday at which our CEO Sade Cooper, along with State Representative Jennifer Bacon (she, her) and State Senator James Coleman and other leaders formally announced introducing legislation which would empower a detailed racial justice (or injustices as the case may be) study in the State of Colorado. This initiative, titled Justice for Black Coloradans, is an historic step forward in identifying, documenting and understanding the specific policies and actions over the past 150 years Colorado has been a state that have contributed to the enormous disparities in education, income, wealth, and other economic opportunities between black Coloradans and so many of their fellow citizens. This vanguard study, to be led by History Colorado and funded by private sector donations, can lay the groundwork for smart, compassionate and consensus-driven policies to ameliorate the obvious legacy of historical (and on-going) injustices and ensuring a future of equal justice for all of us. As one of the speakers yesterday aptly remarked, this isn’t about critical race theory but about critical race history. What is proposed is just a study, but is nonetheless a monumental step forward in a rational path to justice and reconciliation. If you are interested you can learn more about it at https://lnkd.in/gXqEqpvp.

99 years ago today, 10 municipal leaders from across the country sat down together in Lawrence, Kansas for the first official meeting of the National League of Cities. On this important anniversary, I took some time to reflect on how much has changed and what has remained the same for our incredible organization in these last 100 years. Read more about it on our CitiesSpeak blog here: https://lnkd.in/ebb6j-_Y

Check out this episode of A Closer Look on WDIY 88.1 FM with our very own Board of Governors Vice Chair, Laurie Hackett and Vice President of Diversity Councils, Brittany Keal!

The power of arts education in shaping our future cannot be overstated. According to Americans for the Arts, access to quality arts education is crucial for students' success both in school and in life. Key benefits of arts education include: • Enhanced problem-solving skills • Improved collaboration and creativity • Increased student motivation and engagement • Better overall school performance and attendance Despite these clear advantages, many students still lack access to comprehensive arts programs. As business leaders, we have the opportunity to make a difference. Organizations like North Carolina Arts in Action are working to bring arts education to all students. By investing in such initiatives, we can help ensure the next generation receives a well-rounded education that includes the arts. Let's work together to create a future where every child has the chance to explore their creative potential and develop essential skills for success. What steps can your organization take to support arts education in your community?#ArtsEducation #StudentSuccess #CommunityInvestment 

These are 2 of the most experienced place-based change makers around. For those interested in how to enable communities to create change, come and hear Dame Julia and David in conversation

Really?! How is that diversity thing working out for you F&P (Fundraising & Philanthropy)? Can we please reflect and stop assuming that the (relatively easy!) experiences and "expertise" of White fundraisers are universally relevant? They're really, really not. #fundraisingsowhite #charitysowhite

Please consider joining us Monday evening (June 10, 5–7 p.m.) at Merriment Social for a big conversation about the performing arts in Milwaukee. Complimentary appetizers and cash bar. Technically, this is about policy, but it's also about what is needed to sustain a vibrant arts community. Elaine Schmidt and I co-researched and co-authored a Wisconsin Policy Forum report with WPF President Rob Henken (see link to the report, Curtain Time, within the below invitation). The report is the impetus for the event. It explores the sector's sustainability, looks at critical decisions on the horizon, and highlights what's working in other cities. Please register through the link below so the WPF has a headcount. #PerformingArts #Nonprofit #Philanthropy #WisconsinPolicyForum

Our first Trust for Civic Life newsletter is out! In this issue, we talk about Civic Hubs: what they are, why they matter, and what we're learning from them. Not on the mailing list? Follow the link to subscribe.

Funding should go to those who are entrepreneurial. This is a good example. These are examples of ways we can begin to achieve equity.

Check out the latest episode of WonkyFolk featuring a conversation with Nina Rees, outgoing CEO of the National Alliance For Public Charter Schools. Jed Wallace and I discuss Nina's tenure, what's next, and the sector with her. Listen now! #education #educationpolicy