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The decision by Governor Tate Reeves to convene a special session at the Old Mississippi State Capitol is deeply troubling. It is a painful and deliberate reminder of one of the darkest periods in Mississippi history. That building stands as a symbol of the systematic destruction of Black political power in this state. It was there that legislators voted to secede from the Union and, under the 1890 Mississippi Constitution, that laws were crafted with the clear intent to strip Black Mississippians of the right to vote, silence Black voices, and erase Black representation from the political process. The architects of that Constitution openly declared their intentions to disenfranchise Black people and cement white political control. Let us be clear: symbolism matters. For Speaker White to hold the Governor's special session in that very building in 2026 — at a moment when Black voting representation and political power are once again under attack — is a slap in the face to the 1.2 million Black people of Mississippi. This decision sends the wrong message to every Black family whose ancestors bled, marched, suffered, and died for the right to vote. Our people endured literacy tests, poll taxes, lynchings, intimidation, and violence so future generations could have a voice in democracy. Men and women were beaten, murdered, and terrorized simply for seeking the ballot box. We will not sit quietly while efforts are made to turn the clock backward. We cannot ignore the history of the Old Capitol, and we also cannot allow history to repeat itself through modern-day decisions. The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus stands united and fully prepared to fight against any attempt to dilute, dismantle, or destroy Black voting strength and Black political representation in Mississippi. We refuse to allow the ghosts of 1890 to dictate the future of 2026. We are watching. We are organized. And we are prepared to stand in the gap for the people of Mississippi. As Scripture reminds us in Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” The fight for freedom, justice, and equality continues.

The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus expresses profound disappointment and deep concern following the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais. This ruling represents a troubling step backward in the ongoing struggle to protect the voting rights of Black Americans and to ensure fair and equitable representation in our democracy. At its core, this decision weakens critical protections that have long served as a safeguard against racial discrimination in the redistricting process. For decades, the Voting Rights Act has stood as a pillar of accountability—ensuring that communities of color, particularly Black communities across the South, are not diluted, divided, or silenced through manipulated district lines. Today’s ruling threatens that foundation. For the state of Mississippi, the implications are both immediate and profound. Mississippi has a long and painful history of voter suppression and racially discriminatory practices. While we have made progress, this decision opens the door for renewed efforts to redraw political maps in ways that could diminish the collective voice of Black voters. It creates legal uncertainty at a time when Mississippi is already under scrutiny for maps that may fail to fully comply with the Voting Rights Act. Let us be clear: representation is not a privilege—it is a right. And when the power of Black voters is weakened through redistricting decisions, it is not just lines on a map that are changed—it is access to resources, education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and justice itself that hangs in the balance. This decision could have far-reaching consequences beyond Mississippi. Across the nation, states may now feel emboldened to challenge or weaken majority-Black districts, undermining decades of progress secured through sacrifice, advocacy, and, in many cases, bloodshed. The result could be fewer Black voices in legislative bodies, fewer champions for our communities, and a democracy that does not fully reflect the people it serves. The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus will not stand idle. We are actively reviewing the full implications of this ruling and preparing to respond with strategic, legal, and legislative action. We will continue to advocate for fair maps, equitable representation, and the full enforcement of voting rights protections at every level of government. We will also intensify our engagement with communities across Mississippi to ensure that our people are informed, mobilized, and prepared for what lies ahead. As Scripture reminds us in Amos 5:24: “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” While today’s decision may attempt to slow that stream, it will not stop the movement for justice. We call on leaders, advocates, and citizens across this state and nation to remain vigilant. This moment demands unity, courage, and unwavering commitment. The fight for representation is the fight for our future—and we intend to meet it head-on.

From classrooms to courtrooms, from the ballot box to the doctor’s office, the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus (MLBC) is delivering real results for Mississippi families. The 2026 legislative cycle has been defined by one word: Action . Across the state, MLBC members have been organizing town halls, hosting legislative hearings, and advancing a bold policy agenda rooted in equity, opportunity, and justice. But beyond engagement, the Caucus has translated advocacy into measurable outcomes. Investing in Education and Protecting Public Schools MLBC members fought to strengthen public education while expanding opportunity for students. This includes: Expanding literacy interventions for grades 4–8 Establishing math coaches for grades 2–6 Increasing teacher and staff salaries Adding financial literacy, civics, and future-ready coursework Successfully stopping harmful school choice legislation Advancing Black Maternal Health and Healthcare Access The Caucus continued its leadership in maternal health by: Establishing the Fetal & Infant Mortality Review Board Introducing a comprehensive maternal health legislative package Expanding access to quality, affordable healthcare Protecting the Right to Vote At a time when voting rights are under attack nationwide, MLBC stood firm by: Introducing the Robert G. Clark Mississippi Voting Rights Act Advocating for voter restoration Successfully restoring voting rights for Mississippians Holding Systems Accountable From Parchman prison conditions to environmental protections, MLBC: Forced attention to hazardous conditions at Unit 29, leading to facility improvements Advocated for clean air protections Opposed unconstitutional bail reform Strengthening Communities The Caucus also fought for: Child care funding and family supports SNAP and social safety net protections Equitable funding for HBCUs This work reflects a simple truth: policy matters because people matter. The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus remains committed to building a state where every family can thrive. We are not slowing down. Together, with you, we are unstoppable.

Welcome to The Mississippi Black Caucus Website. Be engaged. Be involved. Be empowered. Donate to the Caucus Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Advancing Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for African Americans in the Magnolia State CAUCUS NEWS To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. WELCOME FROM OUR CHAIR It is my pleasure to welcome to the official website of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus. Here you will find important information about our legislative policy, stay informed about our legislative priorities, and receive legislative updates. We champion issues that impact all Mississippians, with particular emphasis on African Americans, those in rural communities and those who are disadvantaged. We advance equity, justice, and opportunity by advocating for economic empowerment, criminal justice reform, job creation, educational advancement, voting rights, business development, improvements in infrastructure, and access to affordable healthcare. Please click the 2026 Policy Agenda graphic below to view our policy proposals. On behalf of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus, thank you so much for your support as we continue this critical work. May we remain steadfast and united in our mission, and may God bless each of you and the great state of Mississippi. Sincerely, Kabir Karriem Representative Kabir Karriem House District 41 Chairman, Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus ABOUT THE CAUCUS The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is made up of 58 members in the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives Learn More MAKE A CONTRIBUTION Partner with the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus to ensure we can continue our advocacy work for African Americans across the State of Mississippi Donate Now MLBC Kicked Off Town Hall Series in Gulfport. Check out this Media Coverage. Join Our NEWSLETTER Sign Up Mailing Address Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus New Capitol PO Box 1018 Jackson, MS 39201 Email mlbc1976@gmail.com

Action Alerts The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is committed to ensuring your voice is heard. We encourage all constituents to stay informed and take action on critical issues affecting our communities. Your participation is vital in shaping the policies that impact our lives. Let’s work together to advocate for change and make a difference! MLBC is Coming to Ripley, MS This town hall is free and open to the public. MLBC will provide a legislative update and hear from residents about their concerns. Community Blueprint for Maternal & Infant Health News Release Download Jackson Flyer Download Canton Flyer Download Cleveland Flyer Participant Registration Volunteer Registration Education Equity Hearing on School Choice This hearing has been postponed indefinitely. MLBC and Faith Leaders Gather at State Capitol for Prayer and Policy Agenda Release Download Media Advisory The Future of the Voting Rights Act Digital Dialogue Watch Now Addressing Mississippi's Maternal Health Crisis Legislative Hearing Watch Livestream Greenwood Town Hall "Community Conversations with the Caucus" Share Now Watch Now Laurel Town Hall "Community Conversations with the Caucus" Share Now "The Federal Budget Bill and Its Impact on Mississippi Families" Legislative Hearing Watch Now Town Hall Meeting Learn More MDE Proposed Rules on DEI Ban House Bill 1193 prohibits the use, promotion, and institutionalization of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, policies, and offices across the state's public K-12 schools, community colleges, and public universities. The Mississippi Department of Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed rules. Get engaged and raise your voice on this issue. View More Stay Connected! Get immediate actions and stay plugged in our our social media channels. Be sure to follow us @mlbcofficial!

Here, you should be able to see our policy agenda's. 2026 Legislative Session Policy Agenda The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is guided by a commitment to moral leadership, public accountability, and policies rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity. Our work reflects an understanding that strong communities are built through shared values, responsible governance, and a deep respect for the lived experiences of the people we serve. The Caucus recognizes the important role that community voices—including faith leaders, advocates, and civic partners—play in informing public policy and strengthening democratic institutions. These perspectives help shape legislative priorities that address education, healthcare access, economic opportunity, public safety, and the protection of civil and voting rights. By centering values alongside research, data, and community input, the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus advances policy solutions that are both principled and practical. This approach reinforces our commitment to good-faith governance and to building a Mississippi where fairness, accountability, and opportunity are accessible to all. Key Features: Provide automatic restoration of suffrage for persons convicted of nonviolent crimes MS Maternal Health Momnibus Act Robert G. Clarke Mississippi Voting Rights Act: House Bill 1446 and Senate Bill 2582 The Mississippi Anti-Hunger and Anti-Food Insecurity Task Force HBCU Equity Fund Prohibit contamination of clean soil with "forever chemicals" Require Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to evaluate toxic air pollutants and revise air quality standards Require Mississippi Department of Health to track food deserts Values-Driven Public Service and Policy Leadership 2026 Policy Agenda Gallery of the 2026 Policy Agenda Release Provided by SCR Photography