National League of Cities’ National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials gathers municipal leaders from across the country to strengthen leadership, collaboration and community impact
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Hundreds of Black local elected officials from across the country gathered in Birmingham, Ala., July 15–18 for the National League of Cities’ (NLC) 2026 National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO) Summer Conference, where municipal leaders shared innovative strategies, strengthened partnerships and explored solutions to the challenges facing communities nationwide.
Held under the theme “Rooted in Community, Delivering Together: Black Local Leaders in Action,” the conference brought together elected officials and local government staff for leadership development, policy discussions and peer learning focused on economic opportunity, housing, public safety, leadership and community investment.
“Across the country, Black local elected officials are leading with vision, resilience and a deep commitment to their communities,” said Mayor Bobby L. Scott, Jr., Center Point, Ala.; President, NBC-LEO, NLC. “This conference demonstrates the power of coming together to share ideas, learn from one another and build lasting partnerships that help us better serve our residents. When we invest in local leadership, we strengthen communities and create opportunities that extend far beyond city hall.”
Hosting the conference in Birmingham underscored the city’s legacy of leadership and community progress. Throughout the conference, attendees participated in educational sessions, leadership discussions and networking opportunities designed to strengthen local leadership and equip officials with impactful strategies they can bring back to their communities.
The conference also highlighted the important role Black local elected officials play in advancing economic development, expanding housing opportunities, improving public safety and building stronger, more resilient communities.
“Every community benefits when local leaders have opportunities to collaborate, learn from one another and bring new ideas home,” said Mayor Van R. Johnson ll, Savannah, Ga.; First Vice President, NLC. “The National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials embodies the leadership, innovation and dedication that drive progress in communities across America. NLC is proud to support these leaders as they work every day to expand opportunity, strengthen neighborhoods and improve the lives of the people they serve.”
NBC-LEO is one of NLC’s six constituency groups and serves as a national network for Black local elected officials committed to advancing effective local governance, leadership development and community engagement.
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The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
