The Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) for the Congressional Black Caucus is set to kick off in September, bringing together legislative leaders throughout the black community. The event will be held in Washington DC, the ideal location to discuss today’s governmental issues.
While attending the conference, you should also be sure to check out the most moving and educational sights in the nation’s capital. Here is everything that you need to know about getting the most out of your time at this informative conference and the city that it calls home.
ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE (ALC) CBC WEEK
This conference is the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s largest fundraising effort to raise money for programs that benefit the group.
This year’s event is scheduled to be held September 11–15 in the DC area. More than 100 public policy forums and educational events will reach the 10,000 people in attendance. A host of current and emerging policy issues will be addressed by a variety of leaders in the industry, including elected officials, subject experts, and activists.
Some marquee events during this year’s ALC CBC week include the Phoenix Awards Dinner, which pays tribute to individuals who have gone above and beyond in the African-American community; a Sunday Prayer Breakfast; the Sojourner Truth Legacy Project Town Hall; and the Black Party (a riff on Jay-Z’s “Black Album”), a fun event that’s become a highlight of the Emerging Leaders Series.
WHERE TO STAY
When choosing a conference hotel, you want to find a location that puts you near the metro station. This will give you easy access to everywhere that you need to go in the DC area.
The hotels in the Courthouse neighborhood of Arlington, VA deliver the ideal balance of convenience and a quiet setting. The Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza is located just a few minutes from DC on the metro line. Spacious rooms, 24/7 dining options, and fitness center make it a convenient and productive place to stay. The Hilton Arlington is another good choice. It also enjoys easy access to DC’s sights, and its in-house restaurant, Dan & Brad’s, is a local favorite in its own right.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
It makes sense to work in a visit to the US Capitol Building when attending the CBC. The work you are doing will come alive with a trip to this massive and significant complex. You may even get lucky and time it so that you can sit in on a Congressional session, bringing government and politics to life.
While at the Capitol, be sure to check out all of the sights on the National Mall. A host of the Smithsonian Museums are located along this famous stretch of grass, including the National Air & Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History.
After the conference wraps up for the day, do not miss the chance to see all of the monuments that line the Mall all lit up at night. A tour of the monuments is a truly moving experience that provides the perfect ending to your inspiring time at the conference.
WHERE TO DINE
Washington DC is a global city with dining experiences that reflect its international vibe. Jaleo is a popular place to stop and enjoy tapas and drinks after any event. For a quick meal in between conference sessions, consider District Taco and its build-your-own taco meals or We, the Pizza and its lunch specials. Founding Farmers is a trendy spot that serves up a mouth-watering cornucopia of locally sourced and seasonal foods.
