Chicago, IL – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and past 1st Vice Chair, released the following statement about the CBCF Executive Economic Summit taking place in Chicago:

“We have gathered in Chicago and we have been welcomed by the congressional office of Representative Bobby Rush, and by Representative Danny Davis, and Representative Robin Kelly, to explore ways to open doors of economic opportunity to those who are far too often shut out. The CBCF Executive Economic Summit offers a unique chance to glean best practices of black-owned businesses while also recognizing the realities of black business flight and socioeconomic hardships facing many of our urban centers.”

“Our purpose is to identify strategies for black business growth and development. Attendees are provided unprecedented access to some of the nation’s most compelling business and marketplace thought leaders, CEOs, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, investment groups, financial professionals and policy makers.”

“Distinguished guests include John Rogers Jr., the Chairman and CEO of Ariel Investments, one of the largest African-American-lead money management firms in the country; actor, philanthropist, and businessman Hill Harper; attorney, businesswoman, and TV commentator Star Jones and members of Congressional Black Caucus Foundation board and staff.”

“Together, we will explore ways to enhance capital expansion, support entrepreneurial education, strengthen strategic partnerships, and develop strategies and policy recommendations for achieving economic parity. The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation has held Executive Economic Summits across America in New York, Silicon Valley, Atlanta, and Chicago. We have engaged with many business leaders in those areas. We will hold our next Summit in Houston, Texas. Our goals are to ensure that the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, which has its origins in the Congressional Black Caucus, bring policy issues outside the beltway and listen to African Americans throughout America.”