On Thursday July 27th, 2023, Associated Black Charities (ABC), a Baltimore-based racial equity organization, in their role as an Advocate, Broker, and Convener, will convene the very first Baltimore Black Racial Equity Organization Summit.
Black equity organizations play a crucial role in dismantling systemic racism and creating more equitable outcomes for Black communities, and ABC is inviting other local organizations focused on racial equity for the Black community in Baltimore to have interactive discussions, to share, and to help the organizations work more cohesively. A goal of working together to create a unified voice that speaks to the systemic issues that affect the Black community in Baltimore is at the forefront of ABC’s efforts.
Equity organizations are fighting against a range of issues, from education and housing discrimination to concerns about criminal justice; from addressing the racial wealth gap and economic disparity, to unequal access to healthcare. Each organization is working tirelessly to address these issues, and they all face similar challenges in their work. Establishing a strong, collective voice may be essential in advocating for policy changes and other systemic reforms that will benefit the Black community, and ultimately, all of Baltimore. ABC’s new leadership feels it is crucial for these organizations to know what each other’s goals and objectives are, and to come together and collaborate.
“I have officially completed over 100 days at Associated Black Charities, and like many other wonderful organizations, we are knee-deep in racial equity work that we want to be impactful and meaningful for Baltimore,” said Chrissy M. Thornton, President and CEO of Associated Black Charities. “Over the past 4 months, I have realized the great need for all of us doing this important work locally to be connected. I strongly believe the complex challenges facing Baltimore’s Black communities require a collective effort and a collaborative approach. By working together wherever possible, Black equity organizations can leverage our unique perspectives, resources, and expertise to create a more effective and impactful movement towards achieving significant change.”
Believing that collaboration will provide an opportunity to learn from one another, ABC is convening the Summit with hopes of cultivating the sharing of knowledge, skills, resources, and best practices.
Taking place at the Maryland Philanthropy Network offices, the event will begin with a presentation on the State of Equity, Justice, and Inclusion in Baltimore, an update given by Dana P. Moore, Baltimore’s Chief Equity Officer and Director of Baltimore’s Office of Equity and Civil Rights. Additional Summit discussion topics and agenda items will include organizational updates by Baltimore Black Racial Equity Organizations; identifying shared goals and objectives, communication, coordination, and collaboration; Black community building; organizational resource and capacity building; and intersectionality, inclusivity, and allyship.
The gathering has limited capacity and registration is required. In addition to ABC inviting Baltimore Black Racial Equity Organizations, additional space will be made available for other interested persons, leaders, and organizations.
For more information about Associated Black Charities and its racial equity programs, visit the organization’s website atwww.associatedblackcharities.org.
