NWIRA was honored to join nearly 1,200 community leaders, policymakers, and advocates in Washington, D.C., for this year’s Just Economy Conference hosted by NCRC.
What inspired us this year:
Hill Day: Our team joined NCRC members on Capitol Hill to meet with congressional staff and discuss bold strategies for youth and community economic development.
Mainstage moments: Sessions featured impactful discussions on bank nonprofit partnerships, consumer protection, and equitable financial systems.
Powerful keynotes: U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters delivered a passionate call to defend economic and racial justice progress. Rodney Hood from the OCC shared forward-thinking strategies for financial inclusion.
Breakout sessions tackled topics like climate resilience, redlining’s legacy, local reparations, and homeownership access for Black communities.
Fireside chats and networking opportunities added tremendous value especially conversations led by Jesse Van Tol and Marc Morial of the National Urban League.
Celebratory dinner: The event closed with a live band, award presentations, and moments of reflection and joy.
NWIRA’s takeaway: We return to Northwest Indiana energized and equipped with new tools, ideas, and relationships to further our mission of economic equity and inclusive growth.