Welcome from the MBLLC:
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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, Sibu 
Sibusisiwe Malaba
Executive Director |
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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
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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)
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.
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MBLLC Welcomes The Tobin Middle School for Civic Education Day on the Hill
In March 2017, the MBLLC and the Senate Office for Civic Education launched its second installment of Civic Education 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 Civic Education Day on the Hill in Collaboration with the Senate
In February 2017, the MBLLC joined the Senate Office for Civic Education in launching the Civic Education 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:
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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
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
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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. |
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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.
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.
MBLLC in the News
“Black and Latino Caucus growing in clout, membership“ http://baystatebanner.com/news/2015/feb/11/black-and-latino-caucus-growing-clout-membership/
“Gov. Charlie Baker meets with black, Latino legislators, discusses need for 'vibrant' Springfield office” http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/02/gov_charlie_baker_meets_with_b.html
“Massachusetts Black & Latino Legislative Caucus website goes live” http://baystatebanner.com/news/2014/dec/11/massachusetts-black-latino-legislative-caucus-webs/
“Gov. Charlie Baker meets with black, Latino legislators, discusses need for 'vibrant' Springfield office” http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/02/gov_charlie_baker_meets_with_b.html
“Massachusetts Black & Latino Legislative Caucus website goes live” http://baystatebanner.com/news/2014/dec/11/massachusetts-black-latino-legislative-caucus-webs/
