Race, Equity And Leadership (REAL) Council
NLC established the REAL (Race, Equity and Leadership) Council in 2015. In 2026, the REAL Council was
reorganized to support leadership resilience, skill development and strengthened skills to promote civil
discourse and engagement. Membership on the REAL Council is open to any elected or appointed official from an NLC member city.
2026 REAL Council Leadership
Chair:
Jessica Harrison,
Mayor, Zebulon, N.C.
Vice Chair:
Stephanie Howse-Jones, Councilmember, Cleveland, Ohio
Vice-Chair:
Carlos Clanton,
Councilmember, Norfolk, Va.
Council Objectives
Civility in Discourse
Strengthens communication practices that encourage productive conversations, thoughtful engagement, and effective governance, helping leaders build trust while navigating differing perspectives.
The REAL Council will inform the development of a Municipal Language and Civic Dialogue Guide that helps local elected officials and local government staff use terminology that reduces harm, protects democratic participation, and fosters constructive civic engagement.
Leadership Care & Resilience
Treats care and resilience as core operational functions of governance, strengthening organizational practices and adaptive leadership so local governments continue functioning effectively through change.
The REAL Council will inform the development of a Leadership Care & Resilience Playbook that compiles best practices, wellness resources, and peer-informed strategies for local elected officials to implement within their governments — focused on leader wellbeing, staff support and organizational culture.
Risk Navigation & Resource Support
Helps local elected officials identify challenges, evaluate options, and implement informed decisions through practical resources and peer examples.
The REAL Council will inform the development of a Risk Navigation & Resource Hub that equips local elected officials with tools to anticipate and manage governance, reputational, and community engagement risks. Plans for the hub include Local Government Risk Assessment Tool, case studies, policies, as well as curated legal, communications and leadership resources.
Council Meetings
The Council meets in person annually at NLC’s Congressional City Conference, Summer Board and Leadership Meeting, City Summit as well as virtually. There is no extra cost for NLC members to join the REAL Council. Leadership nominations for the council are solicited every Fall. Elected leaders begin their term in January.
About NLC Member Councils
NLC’s member councils bring together leaders from communities that are similar in size, type or another important characteristic. The councils provide a space for local leaders to network and exchange ideas around issues of importance to the varying types of communities.
Apply Now for a Leadership Role in REAL
Leadership applications are open for leadership positions in NLC’s Board of Directors, councils, committees and constituency groups August 17 through September 28. Visit the Leadership Applications page to learn more and apply.
Interested in joining a Member Council?
Log in to MyNLC to complete a brief interest form and be among the first to receive information when applications officially open.