Welcome from the MBLLC:

Greetings,

Thank you for visiting the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) website. Created in 1973, the Caucus remains a voice for Massachusetts' communities of color in the Legislature. We also seek to empower constituents to gain a deeper sense of political awareness on issues concerning them and their greater communities. The MBLLC’s thirteen legislators remain dedicated to serving communities of color throughout the Commonwealth through legislative, budgetary, and community endeavors.

I hope you find this website helpful and that you remain informed of the Caucus’ efforts both inside and outside the State House.

Best,
Lucas DeBarros
Executive Director

MBLLC 190th Session Highlights

On July 31, 2018 the 190th legislative session came to a close completing a period that resulted in many successes for the MBLLC which are highlighted below. With the session now behind us, MBLLC members have departed to their districts to hear from the communities they represent and prepare for the upcoming 191st legislative session.

MBLLC and the House of Representatives Honors Chief William Gross

On July 30, 2018 the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) hosted Superintendent in Chief William Gross before the State's House of Representatives. Mayor Martin J. Walsh of Boston had announced a few days earlier that Chief Gross would become the next Police Commissioner for the Boston Police Department following the retirement of Commissioner William Evans. Chief Gross' appointment will be a historic moment for the city and state as he will become the first African-American to serve as Boston's Police Commissioner.

Alongside House Speaker Robert DeLeo and MBLLC members, Chief Gross spoke of the unique and important responsibility for law enforcement and the legislature. Chief Gross explained, "We go to the people, just as you do. We listen to the people, just as you do. And then together we make this city the best that it can be, because we believe in inclusion and being collaborative and being family." Chief Gross was welcomed by applause from legislators from throughout the State as Speaker DeLeo and other praised him for his focus on community policing and building bridges.

BOSTON Appoints William Gross as it's First African-American Police Commissioner

On July 23, 2018 Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh announced that William Gross, the Boston Police Department's (BPD) current Superintendent in Chief, will be taking over as commissioner of the police force. Gross was selected as a successor to BPD's current commissioner, William Evans, and will be the first African-American to hold the post for the city. View our full statement of congratulations below.

Representative Andy Vargas Explains the Need for AUTOMATIC VOTER REGISTRATION in Massachusetts

There are an estimated 700,000 eligible residents in Massachusetts that are not yet registered to vote. MBLLC priority legislation calling for Automatic Voter Registration would change that and Representative Andy Vargas is leading the charge for its implementation. Representative Vargas sees this as crucial to facilitating greater participation in our democracy for all residents of the Commonwealth. To read more about Automatic Voter Registration, view his article below.

It’s 2018 — Let’s make Automatic Voter Registration a Reality in Massachusetts
Representative Andy X. Vargas
02/01/2018
Medium

Bebe Winans Honored by MA House of Representatives

On June 20, 2018 Bebe Winans stood before the Massachusetts House of Representatives to be recognized for his many achievements. The recognition was the result of work from MBLLC members Representative Chynah Tyler, Representative Byron Rushing, Representative Russell Holmes, Representative Evandro Carvalho, and Representative Bud Williams.

​Mr. Winans was introduced by Representative Tyler as she spoke of his many accolades and tremendous talent.  Before beginning their formal session, House members were treated to a Mr. Winans rendition of God Bless America which was followed by applause throughout the chamber.

Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz Secures ENVIRONMENTal Justice Element in senate Clean Energy Legislation

On June 14, 2018 the Massachusetts State Senate voted unanimously to include amendment 43-R2 within S2545: An Act to promote a clean energy future. The amendment, filed by Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, ensures that all people in Massachusetts benefit from solar energy. That will be done through measures such as one requiring solar incentives to address barriers to access. The legislation puts the Commonwealth on a more sustainable and equitable path while we traverse the quickly evolving renewable energy industry.

MBLLC Member Representative Andy Vargas Delivers Maiden Speech as House Members Vote on Civics Bill

With his roots at the forefront of his mind, Representative Vargas of Haverhill addressed a full House chamber on Wednesday June 30th, 2018. He delivered a flawless maiden speech noting the importance of civics in the Commonwealth and the role citizens play in the governing process. He has become a valued member of the MBLLC team as he continues to be a champion for his constituency in the 3rd Essex district.

MBLLC Announces New Executive Director as Former E.D Pursuits Graduate Degree

After 4.5 years of her dedicated work for the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC), Sibusisiwe Malaba is moving on to complete a prestigious fellowship in New York. Sibusisiwe, affectionately referred to as Sibu, used her time as Executive Director to nurture relationships across all communities in Massachusetts. It was those strong relationships that allowed her to effectively lead the MBLLC and secure victories for people of color throughout the State. With a passion for her work, even in her last days as she set her sights on new challenges, Sibu made sure to facilitate a smooth transition as she helped on-board the new Executive Director for the MBLLC.

Excited to carry on the work Sibu has accomplished, Lucas DeBarros will serve as the new Executive Director for the MBLLC. Lucas joins the MBLLC after serving State Representative Evandro Carvalho and Boston's Fifth Suffolk district. It was there that Lucas fostered his passion for civic engagement as he promoted community participation through initiatives such as the #Fighting4TheFairmount advocacy week. Lucas took pride in assisting residents throughout the district with constituent services, organizing events for the youth, and advancing legislation within the State House.

As the new Executive Director Lucas will focus on elevating the brand and recognition of the MBLLC, increasing community participation, and driving policy. He recognizes that we face major challenges within the Commonwealth, within the Nation as a whole, and he is eager to play his role in addressing those. Lucas has always had a great appreciation for local politics seeing it as a driving force for change through the country. That holds true in this transition. As Executive Director Lucas looks forward to assisting our 13 member body as they give voice to communities who are all too often left feeling voiceless. He has felt the need for this since his early days as a teenager when he had his first experience with community work.

Lucas held his first job as a community organizer for the Boston based Cape Verdean Community Unido and soon after continued this line of work serving Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI). While at DSNI he got a taste for advocacy as he marched to the State House to call for youth jobs funding. He later went on to graduate from Bentley University with a Bachelor of Science degree for Marketing, followed by a foray in corporate America. He has utilized the marketing, sales, and analytical tools he has learned along the way to effectively progress legislation and civic engagement.

MBLLC Joins the ACLUM and the Lawyers Committee to Address 21st Century Policing, Public Safety, and Community Accountability

On May 21, 2018 the MBLLC convened at the State House to advocate for the implementation of a P.O.S.T. system here in Massachusetts. The system would allow for greater accountability by allowing the State to determine if an individual can exercise the duties and privileges of a law enforcement officer. A full room of advocates sat attentively listening to a distinguished panel consisting of Professor Roger Goldman of St. Louis University School of Law, State Representative Russell Holmes of Boston, Sophia Hall of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights,  Rahsaan Hall of the ACLU Massachusetts, and  Police Chief Brian Kyes of Chelsea.

MBLLC Celebrates the Signing of Landmark Criminal Justice Reform Legislation

For decades, comprehensive criminal justice reform remained a top priority for the MBLLC. On April 6, 2018, the Legislature made critical strides towards this end in the signing of An Act relative to criminal justice reform, now Chapter 69 of the Acts of 2018.

MBLLC Hosts the BTU Pilot School for Civics Day on the Hill

On February 14, 2018, the MBLLC welcomed the BTU Pilot School in Jamaica Plain for the Civics Day on the Hill initiative. Guest speakers included the MBLLC's Rep. Byron Rushing.

MBLLC Hosts the Kilmer Upper School for Civics Day on the Hill

On January 17, 2018, the MBLLC welcomed the Kilmer Upper School in West Roxbury for the Civics Day on the Hill initiative. Guest speakers included Sen. Michael Rush and Paula DeCosta, aide to Sen. Jamie Eldridge.

MBLLC bids farewell to one of its longest serving members, Senator Linda Dorcena Forry

MBLLC Welcomes Rep. Andres Vargas

The MBLLC proudly welcomed Representative Andy Vargas (D- Haverhill), who was sworn into the Legislature on November 15, 2017.

Ways to support The Puerto Rico Hurricane relief Effort

the MBLLC Joins the Boston Red Sox for the "Take the Lead" Launch

On September 28, 2017, MBLLC members celebrated the launch of the "Take the Lead" initiative launch hosted by the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. This collaborative anti-racism initiative featured all five Massachusetts professional sports teams. Guest speakers included MBLLC member, Senator Linda Dorcena Forry. For more information on "Take the Lead", visit: goo.gl/UwFRif

MBLLC RELEASES STATEMENT ON FEDERAL DACA AND TPS PROGRAMS

MBLLC Hosts Roxbury's Orchard Gardens K-8 School for Civics Day on the Hill

On September 27, 2017, the MBLLC and the Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement resumed its Civics Day on the Hill initiative by hosting students from the Orchard Garden K-8 School in Roxbury. This program invites 8th -11th grade classrooms from communities of color to participate in a full-day educational program at the State House. Guest speakers for this visit included MBLLC Chair, Representative Frank Moran; Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz; Senate Clerk, William Welch; Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Natasha Perez; and Constituent Services Aide to Governor Baker, Dana Valentine.

MBLLC Secures Protections and Access Opportunities for People of Color in the New Marijuana Legislation

On July 20, 2017, the MBLLC celebrated a legislative victory in the passage of equity language in the comprehensive marijuana legislation entitled,  An Act to ensure the public health and safety of patient and consumer access to medical and adult use of marijuana in the Commonwealth  (H. 3776/ S. 2097). This newly-passed legislation sets regulatory framework for the new marijuana industry in Massachusetts.

MBLLC's Rep. Jeffrey Sanchez Named Massachusetts' First Latino House Ways & Means Chair


On July 16, 2017, Rep. Jeffrey Sanchez (D-Boston) of the MBLLC was elevated to the House Ways
and Means (HWM) chair post marking a first for a legislator of color. As HWM chair, Rep. Sanchez
will be responsible for considering all matters related to state finances. Rep. Sanchez has served
in the House since 2003 and has been a member of the MBLLC throughout his legislative career.
The MBLLC is incredibly proud of this achievement and congratulates Rep. Sanchez on his promotion!

MBLLC Voices Concerns Over Proposed Marijuana Legislation

MBLLC CO-Hosts Press Conference on Criminal Justice

On April 25, 2017, the MBLLC joined the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators Justice Involved Women Task Force, the House Progressive Caucus, and the Harm Reduction and Drug Law Reform Caucus, for a united call for comprehensive criminal justice reform at the State House. Speakers included Representative Byron Rushing, Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, Representative Christine Barber, Representative Mary Keefe, and Representative Paul Heroux.
Photo credit: Michael Jonas of Commonwealth Magazine

2017-2018 MBLLC Class Picture

Left to right- Bottom: Rep. Aaron Vega, Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, Rep. Frank Moran, Rep. Evandro Carvalho, Rep. Carlos Gonzalez
Top row: Rep. Juana Matias, Rep. Russell Holmes, Rep. Byron Rushing, Sen. Linda Dorcena Forry, Rep. Bud Williams
(Not pictured: Rep. Jeffrey Sanchez, Rep. Jose Tosado, Rep. Chynah Tyler)

Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour Stop: Worcester

On April 12, 2017, City Councilors Khrystian King and Sarai Rivera kindly hosted the MBLLC for our final Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour stop in Worcester. Representatives Mary Keefe and Kate Campanale of Worcester also joined us for this event.

Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour Stop: Randolph

On April 11, 2017, Town Councilors Kenrick Clifton, Paul Fernandes, and fellow Randolph Town Council colleagues warmly welcomed the MBLLC for our Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour stop in Randolph. Local Town Manager David Murphy, State Senator Walter Timilty, State Representative Bill Driscoll, and Brockton City Councilor Shaynah Barnes also joined us for this event.

Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour Stop: Chelsea

On April 10, 2017, City Councilor Roy Avellaneda and fellow Chelsea City Council colleagues generously hosted the MBLLC for our Communities of Color Budget Listening Tour Stop. Before the budget hearing, MBLLC members enjoyed a tour of the City of Chelsea which included visits with Chelsea Police Chief Brian Kyes, Chelsea Collaborative, and GreenRoots. State Senator Sal DiDomenico also joined us for this event.

MBLLC Votes In New Chair

On March 29, 2017, the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) unanimously voted State Representative Frank Moran (D-Lawrence) to serve as Chair for the 190th legislative session.Representative Moran, whose district includes Lawrence, Methuen, and Andover, has been a member of the MBLLC since entering the House of Representatives in 2013. He replaces Representative Russell Holmes (D-Mattapan), who transitioned from his two-year Chair duties in early April 2017.

MBLLC Welcomes The Tobin Middle School for CivicS Day on the Hill

In March 2017, the MBLLC and the Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement launched its second installment of Civics Day on the Hill. Joining us on this visit was Boston Public School's Tobin Middle School (Mission Hill). Guest speakers included Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, Representative Russell Holmes, Senate Clerk William Welch, and legislative staffers Liana Poston and Anthony Thomas.

MBLLC Prepares for 2017 State Budget Listening Tour in
Chelsea, Randolph, and Worcester


MBLLC Releases Communities of Color (COC) Listening Tour Summary Report and Agenda

MBLLC Launches Civics Day on the Hill in Collaboration with the Senate

In February 2017, the MBLLC joined the Senate Office of Education and Civic Engagement in launching the Civics Day on the Hill initiative. For its launch, the MBLLC and Senate hosted Boston Public School's Washington Irving School (Roslindale) for a half-day educational experience at the State House. This initiative aims to help to increase student diversity in State House educational programs and to expand 8th -10th grade student’s understanding of the Legislature. Guest speakers included Senate President Stan Rosenberg, Senator Linda Dorcena Forry, Representative Russell Holmes, Senate President Chief of Staff Natacha Perez, and other legislative staffers.

A Message from the MBLLC:

Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour Stop: Lawrence

On December 22, 2016, the MBLLC concluded the Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour in Lawrence at the Lawrence. Here, the MBLLC and colleagues Mayor Dan Rivera of Lawrence, City Councilors Modesto Maldonado (Lawrence At-Large); Dana Rebiero (New Bedford Ward 4);
Jeovanny Rodriguez (Lawrence District D); and Senator Jamie Eldridge (D – Acton) received compelling testimony from local residents. Photos by Ant Thomas

Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour Stop: Boston

On December 20, 2016, the MBLLC stopped at Hibernian Hall in Roxbury to listen to testimony as part of the Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour. In Roxbury, the MBLLC and municipal colleagues City Councilors Shaynah Barnes (Brockton At-Large); Tito Jackson (Boston District 7); Ayanna Pressley (Boston At-Large); Dana Rebiero (New Bedford Ward 4); and Michelle Wu (Boston Council President) received moving testimony from over 50 residents. Photos by Ant Thomas

MBLLC Honors Retiring Representatives Fox, Swan and Devers

On December 15, the MBLLC, Governor Baker, Speaker DeLeo, and Mayor Walsh celebrated the Representative's Fox, Swan, and Devers retirement after 31 years, 22 years, and 6 years of service respectively.

Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour Stop: Springfield

On December 13, 2016, the MBLLC kicked off the Communities of Color Agenda Listening Tour at the Rebecca Johnson Elementary School in Springfield. Here, the MBLLC and municipal colleagues, City Councilors Adam Gomez (Springfield Ward 1) and Dana Rebiero (New Bedford Ward 4) received powerful testimony from close to 40 residents. Photos by Ant Thomas

Calling All Communities of Color!!!

MBLLC HOSTS Speak Out for Racial Justice

On July 30, the MBLLC hosted a Speak Out for Racial Justice in an effort to push for racial justice reforms, including Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) and Certification legislation with was before the House of Representatives. The Speak Out allowed for community members to provide testimony in support of racial justice reforms and was moderated by Rahsaan Hall, Director of the Racial Justice Program at the ACLU of Massachusetts.

MBLLC WELCOMES Black State Trooper CONFERENCE at State House

On July 26, 2016, the MBLLC partnered with the Massachusetts Minority State Police Officers Association, Inc. to welcome attendees of the 31st Annual National Black State Troopers Coalition Summer Training Conference in Boston. Special guests included Lieutenant Carmelo Ayuso, President of the Massachusetts Minority State Police Officers Association;  Captain Anthony Burrell, Wisconsin State Police and President of the National Black State Trooper Coalition; United States Marshal John Gibbons of the state's United States Marshal Service district office;  Massachusetts; Chief Kenneth Green, Police Chief of the MBTA; and Superintendent William Gross of the Boston Police Department.

MBLLC and Boston Elected's of Color Call to Action

MBLLC Pushes for Body Camera Legislation

On June 16, 2016, the MBLLC submitted a letter to leadership advocating for the introduction of body camera legislation before the close of the 2015-2016.

"Body camera technology has a proven benefit for both law enforcement and the public, and we ask that you bring this important legislation up for consideration".

"The MBLLC respectfully requests your support for passing body camera legislation this session so law enforcement agencies can deploy this technology in a meaningful way.  Our communities cannot afford to wait any longer".

Please see complete attached letter.

MBLLC Hosts A Small Business Week Discussion on Access and Opportunity

On May 2, 2016, the MBLLC joined the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in kicking off Small Business Week with a discussion on "Access and Opportunity". Event speakers included Robert Nelson, District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration; Jabes Rojas
Deputy Chief of Staff for Access & Opportunity for Governor Charlie Baker; Ivon Gois, President of La Mega Radio & Gois Broadcasting; Jesus Rosa, Chair of the Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce. The discussion was moderated by Tracie Rankin, CEO of Be Connected, Stay Connected.

The MBLLC's Longest-Serving Member, Representative Gloria Fox, Announces Retirement

On March 30, 2016, the MBLLC's Representative Gloria Fox of Roxbury, announced she will not seek re-election. We are supportive of Representative Fox in her transition and are sad to see Roxbury lose such a fierce advocate for their community.

MBLLC Celebrates the Signing of An Act Relative to Motor Vehicle License Suspension

On March 30, 2016, members of the MBLLC joined Governor Charlie Baker, fellow legislators, and community members in the signing of An Act Relative to Motor Vehicle License Suspension. The MBLLC priority legislation, filed by Representative Liz Malia and Senator Harriet Chandler, allows for the immediate license reinstatement for operators with certain prior drug convictions. For more information on the implementation of this law, please visit- http://www.massrmv.com/SuspensionsandHearings/Suspensions/Chapter94CDrugConvictions.aspx

MBLLC Co-Hosts an informational Briefing on Police Certification

On March 29, 2016, the MBLLC joined Senator Jamie Eldridge and Representative David Vieira to host an informational briefing on Police Certification in Massachusetts. The briefing, spearheaded by community advocate, Jamarhl Crawford, highlighted Peace Officer Standards & Training (POST) implemented nationwide. Expert in the field, Professor Roger Goldman of Saint Louis University School of Law, shared his findings on POST and emphasized the need for POST in Massachusetts. The event highlighted pending POST legislation filed by Representatives Vieira and Holmes (H.2192), which was reported favorably out of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee, which would establish a commission to study the implementation of a POST system in Massachusetts. Rahsaan Hall of ACLU Massachusetts served as moderator.

MBLLC, Governor Charlie Baker, & Secretary Francis Galvin Host a Black History Month Exhibit and Celebration

On February 24, 2016, the MBLLC, Governor Charlie Baker, and Secretary Francis Galvin hosted a Black History Month Exhibit and Celebration at the Massachusetts State House. The event highlighted the Commonwealth Museum’s exhibit of historic state petitions filed by Blacks in the Commonwealth. Members of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment opened with a Presentation of the Colors and were followed by a prayer led by Reverend Miniard Culpepper. Guest speakers included Governor Charlie Baker, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, Senate President Stanley Rosenberg, Professor Kerri Greenidge, Ph.D. of the University of Massachusetts Boston, Professor Daniel Carpenter of Harvard University, and MBLLC member, Representative Carlos Gonzalez. MBLLC Chair, Rep. Russell Holmes served as MC and Ms. Katie Days of Mattapan closed the celebration with a featured selection. The event was complimented by pieces provided by the State Library of Massachusetts and the artwork of Paul Goodnight of Roxbury.
Photo credit- Mark Steffen, Governor’s Office

MBLLC Co-hosts Briefing on the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination

On January 28, 2016, the MBLLC highlighted the work of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) in a State House briefing. MCAD Commissioners Jamie R. Williamson, Sunila Thomas George, and Charlotte Golar Richie discussed the agency's important work as the agency celebrates its 70th year of civil rights service.

MBLLC Joins the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts in the Release of their State of Black Massachusetts Report

On December 11, 2015, the MBLLC partnered with the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts in their State of Black Massachusetts report release. This year, the report highlighted the education, wealth, and public health disparities Massachusetts’ communities of color face. The event was moderated by MBLLC Chair, Rep. Russell Holmes, and panelists included Chief of Economic Development for the City of Boston, John Barros; Margaret McKenna, President of Suffolk University; Harold D. Cox, Associate Dean of Public Health Practice at Boston University School of Public Health; Ana Patricia Muñoz, Director of Community Development Research at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston; and Tufts University Professor, Dr. Peniel E. Joseph.

MBLLC Meets with Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants to Discuss Criminal Justice

On December 9, 2015, members of the MBLLC met with Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants to discuss a variety of issues related to criminal justice in Massachusetts.

MBLLC Joins Other Caucuses to host A Criminal Justice Expo at the State House

On November 2, 2015, the MBLLC teamed with the Harm Reduction and Drug Law Reform Caucus, House Progressive Caucus, Senate Progressive Caucus, and Caucus of Women Legislators Justice Involved Women Task Force for a united call to action for criminal justice reform.

MBLLC Hosts a Briefing on Latina Equal Pay with the Women's Caucus

On October 8, 2015, the MBLLC partnered with the Caucus of Women Legislators to host a discussion on Equal Pay for Latina Women. Guest speakers included Yvette Villa-Barry, Co-Chair of the North Shore Area American Association of University Women; Migdalia Diaz, Boston Chapter COO of the Association of Latino Professionals For America; and Ann Bookman, Director, Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy, McCormack Graduate School at the University of Massachusetts Boston. MBLLC Chair, Rep. Russell Holmes moderated the event while MBLLC member, Representative Frank Moran, and Women's Caucus member, Representative Lori Ehrilich, provided remarks.

MBLLC Meets with the Trust Act to Discuss Immigration Legislation

On October 7, 2015, the MBLLC met with members of the Trust Act Coalition to discuss pressing immigration bills including the Trust Act, In-state Tuition, and the Safe Driving Bill.

MBLLC Partners with the Center for Women in Politics & Public Policy and the Women's Pipeline for Change to Host Women of Color in Elected Office Event

On September 29, the MBLLC partnered with the UMass Boston's Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy, the Women's Pipeline for Change, and the Caucus of Women Legislators for the release of Profiles in Leadership: Women of Color Elected to Office in Massachusetts. The publication recognizes the many contributions of Massachusetts' former and current female elected local and state officials. MBLLC's Senators Sonia Chang-Diaz and Linda Dorcena Forry, and Representatives Gloria Fox and Russell Holmes provided remarks. Former MBLLC members who joined the celebration included, former Senator Dianne Wilkerson and Representatives Doris Bunte, Charlotte Golar Ritchie, Shirley Owens-Hicks, Marie St. Fleur, and Althea Garrison.

MBLLC Meets with Taser, Int. to Discuss Body Camera and Taser Technology

On September 24, 2015, members of the MBLLC met with the police equipment maker, Taser International, to discuss how their body camera and taser equipment is utilized in police departments.

MBLLC Hosts a Briefing on African American Equal Pay with the Women's Caucus

On July 28, 2015, the MBLLC partnered with the Caucus of Women Legislators to host a discussion on Equal Pay for African American Women. Guest speakers included Councilor-at-Large Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Council; Jacqueline Cooke, Regional Administrator for the United States Department of Labor Women’s Bureau; Christa Kelleher, PhD, Research Director at the Center for Women in Politics & Public Policy at UMass Boston; and Malia Lazu, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Future Boston Alliance. MBLLC Chair Rep. Russell Holmes moderated the event while MBLLC members Senator Linda Dorcena Forry and Rep. Gloria Fox provided closing remarks. Equal Pay bill sponsors Rep. Ellen Story and Jay Livingstone joined the conversation to share an overview of the proposed legislation.

MBLLC Meets with Labor and _Workforce Development Secretary, Ronald Walker

On July 22, 2015, the MBLLC met with Secretary Ronald Walker of the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development to discuss unemployment, diversity, and his agency's job growth initiatives. Secretary Walker was joined by his Undersecretary and Chief Operating Officer, Stephanie Neal-Johnson, and Undersecretary for Workforce Development, Ronald Marlow. 

MBLLC Participates in the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials' (COMTO) 44th National Meeting and Training Conference in Boston

On July 13, 2015, MBLLC members Representative Russell Holmes (Chair) and Senator Linda Dorcena Forry sat with COMPTO officials to discuss moving policy in a special MBLLC-COMPTO Advisory Session at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. Special guests included Boston Mayor Marty Walsh; Joint Committee on Transportation Chair, Senator Thomas McGee; Dr. Beverly Scott, former MBTA General Manager; and several others.

MBLLC Rallies Behind the Justice Reinvestment Act (S. 64)

On June 9, 2015, the MBLLC, and several members of the House of Representatives and Senate gathered in support of the Justice Reinvestment Act (S. 64) before it was heard by the Joint Committee on Judiciary. The comprehensive criminal justice reform bill was filed by MBLLC member, Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, and Representative Mary Keefe and is a Caucus priority for the 2015-2016 legislative session.

MBLLC Joins Speaker DeLeo, Senate President Rosenberg, and Senator O'Connor Ives to Recognize the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Address to the MA Legislature

On April 27, 2015, the House of Representatives and Senate convened in a Joint Session to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s April 22, 1965 address to the Massachusetts State Legislature. The event included a brief speaking program and library exhibit in honor of Dr. King. Special guests included, Governor Charlie Baker, Rev. Michael E. Haynes, Attorney General Maura Healey, Mel King, former members of the 1965 Legislature and the MBLLC, as well as several community leaders. The Caucus wishes to thank Speaker DeLeo, Senate President Rosenberg, and Senator O'Connor Ives on their amazing partnership on this event. Thank you also to Maria St. Catherine McConnell for sharing background on Dr. King's historic visit.

MBLLC Prepares to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Address to the Massachusetts Legislature

MBLLC Meets with Attorney General Healey to Discuss Policing Bills

On March 26, 2015, the MBLLC sat down with Attorney General Maura Healey to discuss policing related legislation and diversity hiring.

MBLLC Meets with Auditor Bump to Discuss Diversity and Legislation

On February 25, 2015, the MBLLC met with Auditor Suzanne Bump and staff to discuss diversity within the Auditors Office and 2015-16 legislation. State House

MBLLC Meets with Governor Baker to Discuss the FY16 State Budget

The MBLLC sat down with Governor Baker to discuss our FY16 budgetary priorities. February 18, 2015 at the State House.

MBLLC Joins Governor Baker for Office of Access and Opportunity Announcement

On February 19, 2015, members of the MBLLC joined the Baker Administration for their announcement of the Executive Order for the Office of Access and Opportunity (OAO), the office tasked with ensuring diversity and inclusion within state government.

MBLLC Meets with Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito

On February 4, 2015, members of the MBLLC met with Gov. Baker and Lt. Gov. Polito to discuss issues ranging from stewarding relationships and diversity within the Administration. 

MBLLC Co-sponsors Haitian Remembrance Day

On February 4, 2015, Senator Linda Dorcena Forry and the MBLLC recognized the 5th Anniversary of the Haitian Earthquake.

MBLLC Members Participate in Pre-k Press Conference

Senator Chang-Diaz and Representative Carvalho supported universal pre-kindergarden legislation during a State House press conference hosted by the Senator. January 20, 2015 at the State House.

MBLLC Meets with Hampden County DA Anthony Gulluni

On January 14, 2015, the MBLLC met with Hampden County's new District Attorney, Anthony Gulluni, to discuss public safety and issues facing the district.

MBLLC Members Sworn in to the 189th General Court

On January 7, 2015, the Legislature welcomed the 189th General Court with House and Senate swearing in ceremonies at the State House.

MBLLC Members host Jack and Jill of America Foundation

On December 18, 2014, Senator Forry and Representative Holmes host members of Jack and Jill of America Foundation, a membership organization of mothers with children whose mission is to nurture future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. 

MBLLC Co-sponsors briefing on racial disparities in law enforcement practices

On December 17, 2014, Representative Byron Rushing, Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz, the MA Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, and the Harm Reduction and Drug Law Reform Caucus host a briefing about racial disparities in law enforcement practices, the impact on our communities, and legislative measures to address the problems with ACLU of Massachusetts.