This September, over 10,000 people will descend on DC’s Walter E. Washington Convention Center for the 47th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) presented by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF).
ALC is the mecca of networking and community building for black professionals in Washington. And this year, #CBCFALC17 promises unbarred access to policy makers, celebrities, and activists.
With the theme And Still I Rise, and on the heels of a contentious election and social justice slights happening across the country, ALC is more relevant today than ever.
Below you’ll find an exhaustive list of networking activities below for ALC 2017. Check back to this page often as we will be updating events and happenings in real time.
Tuesday, September 19
Elections Matter: Healthcare…a right or a privilege?
Location TBA | 6:30-8:30PM
Moderated by Michael Long, the Senior Advisor to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, an all-star panel has been assembled including the Honorable Donna Edwards, March of Dimes President Stacey Stewart, Associate Professor Dr. Crystal Clay Wright, and Priscilla Ross from the American Hospital Association.
Melody of Art KIck-Off Reception
Atlas Theatre @ 1333 H Street NE | 7-9PM
Celebrate the movers and shakers of the art world, featuring musician, visual art, poetry, and more.
Wednesday, September 20
USBC Policy Breakfast
NCTA @ 25 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 100 | 8AM-12PM
Convene with expert business owners, corporate partners, and policymakers to learn about the business contracting industry.
4th Caribbean & African Faith and Civic Leadership Conference
Walter E. Washington Convention Center @ 801 Mount Vernon Place NW | Sept. 20-24
Celebrate, learn, and share the Caribbean and African Faith and Civic Leadership with a week filled with activities.
Corporate Lounge Opening
Walter E. Washington Convention Center @ 801 Mount Vernon Place NW | 11:30AM-1PM
Augustus Hawkins Foundation
Walter E. Washington Convention Center @ 801 Mount Vernon Place NW | 1-3PM
As the first black politician west of the Mississippi River elected to the House of Representatives, Augustus Hawkins’ 56 years of public service will be remembered and celebrated.
Black Women’s Roundtable
Walter E. Washington Convention Center @ 801 Mount Vernon Place NW | 2-5PM
Panelists discuss a variety of issues including politics, activism, health care, social justice and more.
Oprah Winfrey Network Screens Film, “Released”
Walter E. Washington Convention Center @ 801 Mount Vernon Place NW | 4-6PM
This film portrays the perspectives of formerly incarcerated men and women during the moments they are released from prison and begin to restart their lives.
CBC Reception hosted by Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha
The Park at Fourteenth @ 920 14th Street NW | 5PM-2AM
Join the CBC Reception to listen to some popular regional DJs.
“Let Her Learn: A Celebration of Black Girls and Women” Reception
Acadiana @ 901 New York Avenue NW | 6-9PM
Help honor six women who have dedicated their lives to bringing access to education and opportunity to young Black girls.
Let America Vote hosts “Reclaim Your Right to Vote” CBC Reception
WeWork White House @ 1440 G Street NW | 6-8PM
Let America Vote is an organization fighting to combat voter suppression and promote voter equality.
American University Alumni 6th Annual CBCF Honoree Reception
Renaissance Hotel @ 999 9th Street NW | 6-8PM
Join American University Alumni during CBC to celebrate the 2017 honorees.
HBCU Research Magazine Launch Party
Newseum @ 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW | 6:30-8:30PM
Join an exclusive magazine launch party this year during CBC.
The Black upStart Village: CBC-ALC Reception
Impact Hub DC @ 419 7th Street NW, Suite 300 | 7-9 PM
Connect with young bosses and millennial creatives in the retail, tech, and food/beverage industries.
21st Annual Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts * Ticketed Event
An event raising scholarship funds for students with exceptional talent in the arts and contributions of individuals who have influenced African-American history.
Thursday, September 21
Community Breakfast and Health Fair
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 7:30-10 AM
A breakfast dedicated to raising awareness of homelessness and helping by collecting clothing and toiletries, as well as offering health screenings.
HBCU Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 11AM-2:30 PM
A discussion for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
General Session Luncheon (Limited Space)
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 11:30AM-2PM
Catch up and network over lunch with fellow CBC attendees.
Exhibit Showcase-Grand Opening
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 11:30AM-7PM
Visit various pavilions throughout CBC week and take advantage of the unique opportunities. Pavilions include the Health Pavilion, the Marketplace Pavilion, and the Authors Pavilion
AFT Legislative Luncheon
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 12-1:30 PM
The American Federation of Teachers convene for a luncheon.
Emerging Leaders POWER Luncheon
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 12-2PM
A luncheon designed to discuss education equality and the role people have in helping all African American students to receive learning and development opportunities.
CBC Spouses Youth Issue Forum: The Legacy of Black Entrepreneurship
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 2-3PM
Qualified students participate in an Essay Contest and Issue Forum to discuss pressing issues for African Americans, and this year specifically for people of their generation.
CBC Panel Discussion: Evolving the Image of African-American Women in Advertising and Media Through Public Policy
The National Press Club @ 529 14th Street NW | 2-4PM
Panelists discuss the impact of media and advertising portrayals of African American women and how this influences public perception.
Education Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 2-4PM
A discussion of matters pertaining to Education.
Honorable A. Leon Higginbotham Memorial Voting Rights Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 2-4PM
A discussion related to the Civil Rights activism of the Honorable A. Leon Higginbotham and all of his achievements.
Walker’s Legacy: Women in Economic Development and Civic Leadership Program and Awards Reception
Microsoft Innovation and Policy Center @ 901 K Street NW | 4:30-8:30 PM
A global platform celebrating multicultural women in business and entrepreneurship hosts a panel discussion and awards celebration.
Transportation Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 3-5PM
A discussion related to transportation and the current issues in the industry.
Women Veterans Leadership and Recognition On Capitol Hill
Cannon House Office Building @ 27 Independence Avenue SE | 5-7PM
A networking event to highlight the bravery of the women in the armed forces.
Mid-Tier Advocacy hosts A Small Business Industry Reception
Marriott Marquis @ 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW | 5-7PM
Connect with people in the small business industry while learning more about Mid-Tier Advocacy.
Black Professional Homecoming Networking Social
Lucky Strike Washington DC @ 701 7th Street NW | 5PM-12AM
Make connections on the lanes by bowling with the Black Professional Homecoming network.
4th Annual CBC Reception presented by Social Architects
The Park at Fourteenth @ 920 14th Street NW | 5PM-2 AM
Happy hour, celebrity DJs, and more at this conference reception.
Leadership Reception – Honoring Rep. Cedric L. Richmond, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 5:30-7:30 PM
An event to honor the dedication and achievements of the current Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Rep. Cedric L. Richmond.
NAAAHR DC Business Networking Social
Littler Mendelson P.C. (Rooftop) @ 815 Connecticut Ave NW | 5:30-7:30PM
The National Association of African Americans in Human Resources host a social gathering to network with people in the HR industry.
4th Annual Bankers Hours Networking Event
The Homer Building (Rooftop) @ 601 13th Street NW | 6-8PM
Bring your business card and begin networking at this annual event.
Attorneys Congressional Black Caucus Soiree 2017
Bliss Nightclub @ 2122 24th Place NE | 6PM-12AM
Celebrate in style with 3 rooms for dancing, considerable food samples, and luxurious club embellishments.
CBCF Chair and Board of Directors’ Reception
Join in celebrating Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Board of Directors.
NABWIC Mid-Year CBC Reception
The City Club of Washington @ 555 13th Street NW | 6-8PM
Gather with the National Association of Black Women in Construction for the Mid-Year reception, which coincides with this year’s CBC week.
Healthcare Leaders Reception
Marriott Marquis Washington DC @ 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW | 6-10PM
Healthcare leaders are gathering to discuss the Opioid Crisis currently affecting many communities throughout the country.
Congressional Black Caucus: Young, Black, & Progressive Mixer
Baby Wale @ 1124 9th Street NW | 6:30-9:30PM
As one of the most attended events during CBC, this mixer brings together political operatives, lobbyists, and organizations to convene for a social and networking party.
CBC Reception & After Party
Ultrabar @ 911 F Street NW| 6:30PM-1:30AM
A live performance from TWEET and performances from popular DJs are only a few of the entertainment events during this after party.
Gospel Extravaganza
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 8-10:30 PM
Come listen to the inspirational noise of the Georgia Mass Choir, Word Tabernacle Choir, Coahoma Community College Gospel Choir, and E.L. Clyburn Memorial Choir.
32nd Anniversary Celebration Jazz Concert
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 8-10:30 PM
Celebrate the 32nd Anniversary Celebration with classic Jazz hits.
Sojourner Truth Women’s Leadership Reception
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 8-11:59 PM
As a celebration culminated from the work of this past year, the trailblazer Sojourner Truth award will be given to one or two selected women who have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in their field.
Friday, September 22
40th Annual Symposium Workshop & Awards Luncheon
Marriott Marquis @ 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW | 8AM-3PM
Celebrate the renewed commitment to advancing and protecting the rights of Black women and their families at this annual luncheon.
Judiciary Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9-10:45AM
A discussion related to criminal justice reform and making America accountable for Black lives.
Child Welfare Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-12PM
A discussion on child welfare and related topics.
Financial Services Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-12PM
A discussion about financial services and the economy.
Black Elected Officials Roundtable
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-12PM
Listen to elected representatives about the issues currently impacting our nation.
Health Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-3PM
A discussion for the health care system in our nation and the various health care issues people are suffering from throughout the nation.
Veterans Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-3PM
A discussion about current Veterans nationwide.
3rd Annual Community Healing Network Summit Weekend
Various locations | 9AM-5PM
A summit to discuss emotional health and practices for valuing the lives of African Americans.
Africa Braintrust: Renewing our Commitment and Engagement with Africa
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9AM-5PM
A discussion with industry experts about how to best advocate and support positive political, economic, security, and developmental aspects of countries in Africa.
Breaking Down Barriers to the C-Suite: The Power of the CEO
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 10AM-12PM
A “TED” style talk to discuss ways to diversify CEO and board member position in Fortune 500 and other companies.
Environmental Justice Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 10AM-12PM
A discussion about Environmental Justice and the issues current in this sector.
Walking While Black Movie Screening & NFL Players Speak Up with U. S. House of Representatives Elijah Cummings
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 2-4PM
A documentary screening that conveys a message of positivity between peace officials and the rest of the community.
Emerging Leaders: Young, Gifted, and Black Braintrust
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 2-4PM
An event featuring panelists to help young professionals interested in entertainment industries, music, and various talent based careers.
Many Faces of MS CBC Reception
One Judiciary Square @ 441 4th Street NW | 4:30-8PM
Come to support the Many Faces of MS at this CBC reception, which includes complimentary light fare.
FAMU Alumni & Friends CBC Welcome Reception
The Park at Fourteenth @ 920 14th Street NW | 5-7:30 PM
Florida A&M University Alumni celebrate CBC week at this reception.
CBC Black Professional Homecoming Happy Hour
The Park at Fourteenth @ 920 14th Street NW | 5-10PM
Relax at this Black Professional Homecoming Happy Hour and mingle with other interested networking professionals.
The Urbane Group’s CBC Power 100 Party
The Park at Fourteenth @ 920 14th Street NW | 5PM-3 AM
Celebrate at this late night event hosted by an organization catering to young professionals.
Congressional Black Caucus ALC Reception
Marriott Marquis Georgetown Room Level M1 @ 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW | 6-8PM
Open to all mayors, business council, and guests for the 4th Annual CBC receptions for the African American Mayors Association.
CBCF Alumni Association Networking Reception
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 6:30-8:30 PM
Celebrate the achievements of several CBCF alumni for being individuals who help mentor and provide opportunities for young professionals.
Michigan CBC Delegation Reception & Motown Live Afterglow
Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium @ 1301 Constitution Avenue NW | 7PM-2AM
The CBC Reception and Afterglow will feature gourmet cuisine, a performance by Grammy-Nominated vocalist Quinn & Jukebox, and celebrity DJ MC Lyte and Secret Society.
CBC Reception and Party
Renaissance Hotel @ 999 9th Street NW | 8PM-2AM
Enjoy three great artists and one great night with special guests DJ Ezzy, DJ Biggs, and live performances.
The Black Party- Live & Direct III (Ticketed Event)
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 9PM-1AM
This ticketed event is a premier social party for emerging leaders featuring great music, cocktails, and the company of the movers and shakers of DC.
CBC Midnight Fashion Show
Grand Hyatt Hotel @ 1000 H Street NW | 10 PM
Find a new look at the Midnight Fashion Show when models showcase designs from Lord & Taylor, Miller’s Furs, Saks, Ida’s Idea, Everett Hall, Stark & Legum, and more.
The Late Night Network Event-Black Professional Homecoming
Opera Ultra Lounge @ 1400 I Street NW | 10PM-3AM
Continuing networking at this late night event hosted by Black Professional Homecoming at the chic Opera Ultra Lounge.
Saturday, September 23
Prayer Breakfast (Ticketed Event)
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 7:30-10AM
A ticketed event designated for prayer and inspirational praise.
Faith Leaders Roundtable
Walter E. Washington Convention Center@ 801 Mt Vernon Place NW | 10:30AM-2PM
Leaders in faith and spirituality convene to discuss the issues surrounding their environments.
CBC 4th Annual Caucus Brunch & Day Party
Barcode @ 1101 17th Street NW | 11AM-9PM
Enjoy a day party, brunch, full menu, DJs, outdoor patios, and more.
Phoenix Awards Dinner* Ticketed Event
Walter E. Washington Convention Center | 6-9:30 PM
A dinner to pay tribute to the legacy and achievements of remarkable individuals who positively impact the African-American experience.
CBC 4th Annual Black and White Gala
Renaissance Hotel @ 999 9th Street NW | 8PM-2AM
Hosted by actor Larenz Tate, this annual gala will feature live performances, DJs, mock casino games, and more.
19th Annual International Ball California CBC Delegation
The Renaissance Hotel @ 999 9th Street NW | 9PM-2AM
The California CBC Delegation is hosting a reception to celebrate all of the work of participants from this year’s CBCF.
Sunday, September 24
Brand & Brunch Presented by Skye Media Group
Cambria Hotels & Suites @ 899 O Street NW | 11AM-3PM
Join the official launch of Brand & Brunch presented by Skye Media Group, an organization that helps businesses with branding, web design, strategy, and other ways to succeed.
Champions of Change Brunch
The W Hotel @ 515 15th Street NW | 1-4PM
Honor some of the Champions of Change at this brunch, which will feature honorees who have helped make a significant impact in their field.
Photography by Tamarcus Brown
