According to their website, The Global Black Economic Forum is dedicated to elevating and advocating for Black and marginalized communities around the world through thought leadership, global summits, workplace training, leadership development, and policy advocacy. Vice President Kamala Harris joined the Global Black Economic Forum™ Headquarters Stage at the 2023 Essence Fest and provided attendees with insight into the fight for reproductive freedom with lawyer, journalist, author, and television host Sunny Hostin and executive director of Sister Song Monica Simpson. Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen also joined the GBEF HQ Stage to discuss how the Biden-Harris administration is working to advance economic opportunity for Black people, businesses, and communities. The Stage was hot today with another panel titled Early Childhood Education anchored by a conversation with award-winning actor Tyler James Williams from Abbott Elementary.
On the last day of The Festival, The ESSENCE Global Black Economic Forum™ HQ featured panel discussions with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell moderating a conversation with Major Eric Adams of NYC, Major Karen Bass of LA, Major Sylvester Turner of Houston, Major Justin Bibb of Cleveland, and former New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial.
Whether or not you agree with the politics of the panelist, having the Global Black Economic Forum at Essence was a win. After the “invite-only” portion, the panels were easily accessible to the public and packed with vital information. In the future, I’d love to see younger politicians and organizers take the stage to break down relevant legislation and the future of our democracy.
