Federalism, Civil Rights & Legislative Leadership

BLLN’s Involvement in the Federalism Initiative

Who makes the decisions—and how do we ensure those decisions serve our communities?

The Black Legislative Leaders Network is working with Utah Valley University’s Constitutional Federalism Initiative and the State of Utah’s Federalism Commission to bring Black state legislative leaders into a national, bipartisan conversation about the responsibilities of state and federal government.

Federalism shapes decisions about education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic opportunity, and civil rights. For BLLN, this work is about helping legislators understand their constitutional responsibilities, navigate changes in federal policy, and work across states to deliver meaningful results.

Bringing Our Communities Into the Conversation

Black legislative leaders bring an essential perspective to discussions about governmental power: experience with both the opportunities states can create and the protections national action has provided.

BLLN’s involvement centers on a clear principle: effective government must pair constitutional accountability with a firm commitment to civil rights and equal opportunity.

Our priorities include:

  • Legislative education: Connecting members with scholarship, training, and practical discussions about federalism and intergovernmental relations.

  • Civil rights and equal protection: Examining how shifts in governing authority affect the communities our members represent.

  • Collaboration across states: Creating opportunities for legislators to exchange ideas, compare approaches, and develop working relationships across party lines.

  • Practical policy discussions: Exploring how state and federal responsibilities intersect in funding, public services, and emerging policy challenges.

Connecting Scholarship With Statehouse Experience

UVU’s Constitutional Federalism Initiative brings research and educational resources focused on constitutional governance and interstate collaboration. Utah’s Federalism Commission contributes experience examining state–federal relations and advancing federalism education.

BLLN brings a national network of Black legislative leaders whose perspectives help connect these discussions to the realities of governing and the needs of communities.

Looking Ahead: Nashville Federalism Summit

BLLN is planning to cohost a Federalism Summit in Nashville, Tennessee, with our Utah partners. The gathering will provide space for substantive dialogue, shared learning, and collaboration among legislators, scholars, and policy leaders.

Tentative dates: September 21–22, 2027. Program, venue, and registration details will be announced as planning progresses.

Join the conversation. Help shape how government serves our communities.

 

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