SiX National Conference 2024: Full Schedule

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10:30am EST

Beyond Borders: What We Can Learn about Using the Human Rights Framework in Policy from the Global Reproductive Rights Movement

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 6 Breakout

The global fight for abortion access, pregnancy decriminalization and reproductive justice is gaining momentum, fueled by movements like Latin America's Green Wave. In this session, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from the countries leading the way. Since 2019, SiX has brought lawmakers to Latin America (El Salvador, Mexico, Dominican Republic) to witness how a human rights framework is driving policy change and empowering communities. Participants will learn from legislators who are integrating these powerful strategies into state policy and learn from leaders at the forefront of the Green Wave movement to discover the power of international solidarity. Join us for an inspiring conversation and explore what's possible when we align with a global movement for change!

Speakers

Asm. Amanda Septimo

State Assemblymember, New York-84

Born and raised in the South Bronx, Amanda Septimo has a long, rich history of service to the community. Over the years Amanda has worked with local community organizations, in the labor movement, and in government to advance an agenda of inclusive, sustainable, and responsible growth... Read More →

Melissa Madera

SiX Staff Session Lead

Laura Hernandez

SiX Staff Session Lead, State Innovation Exchange

As the Senior Policy Associate of Reproductive Rights, Laura provides strategic support to over 600 state legislators in the SiX RFLC network on reproductive rights and justice. Previously, she served as Director of Policy for Planned Parenthood in Florida, where she successfully... Read More →

Rep. Julie von Haefen

State Representative, North Carolina-36

Paula Ávila-Guillen

Executive Director, Women’s Equality Center (WEC)

Paula Ávila-Guillen is a Green Wave movement leader, international human rights lawyer, and Executive Director at the Women's Equality Center (WEC). She has helped lead the fight to decriminalize abortion in her home country of Colombia, and has supported the efforts that led to... Read More →

Pilar Herrero

Senior Staff Attorney, Center for Reproductive Rights

Pilar Herrero is a Senior Staff Attorney in the US Human Rights unit at the Center for Reproductive Rights. She uses international human rights law to hold the US accountable for reproductive rights violations and to strengthen domestic policy advocacy and litigation.

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 6 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

Building an Economy for the Many, not the Few: Busting Corporate Monopolies and Empowering Workers

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 7 Breakout

From challenging monarchs to corporate monopolists, historically, the anti-monopoly movement began in the states. The future of the anti-monopoly movement remains in the states too, and there is incredible momentum on our side. From modernizing antitrust law, to trailblazing public options, to tackling junk fees, price fixing, right to repair, and employee non-competes—state legislators, alongside workers, local businesses, and consumers are on the frontlines of innovation, leading the way in passing new laws to rein in corporate power and empower working families. This session will first provide a foundational understanding of corporate concentration in the United States, including the historic links of corporate monopolies to white supremacy. We will then profile bold anti-monopoly efforts across the country, where across rural, urban, and suburban communities—state legislators, workers, consumers, and local businesses are united and building state economies that advance justice and work for the many, not the elite few.

Speakers

Yenisbel Vilorio

SiX Staff Session Lead

Pat Garofalo

Director of State and Local Policy, American Economic Liberties Project

Rep. Anna V. Eskamani

State Representative, Florida-42

Prof. Zephyr Teachout

Senior Advisor, American Economic Liberties Project (AELP)

Zephyr Teachout is a Professor at Law at Fordham Law School where she focuses on the intersection of corporate power and political power. She teaches corporations, election law, antitrust, and prosecuting white collar crime. Her most recent book, Break 'em Up (2020), makes a case... Read More →

Justin Stofferahn

Antimonopoly Director, Minnesota Farmers Union

Justin Stofferahn is the Antimonopoly Director for the Minnesota Farmers Union, where he leads the organization’s work to advocate for state and federal reforms that will reduce concentrated corporate power in Minnesota. He is also the co-author of the weekly newsletter You're Probably... Read More →

Rep. Analise Ortiz

Representative for Legislative District 24, Arizona House of Representatives

Analise Ortiz currently represents West Phoenix and South Glendale in the Arizona House of Representatives Legislative District 24. Ortiz is a native Arizonan, a former journalist and civil rights activist. Elected in 2022, Ortiz has become a rising star freshman legislator. She doubled... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 7 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

Elected and Unsafe: Navigating Threats and Abuse in Public Life

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 9 Breakout

Increasingly, public officials at all levels of government, especially Black, Indigenous, immigrant, and other women of color, are subjected to threats and abuse, inflamed by the rise of violent white nationalism and other extremist groups. This session offers space for legislators to unpack recent findings about the threats that state and local officeholders face and exchange strategies for protection against future threats.

Speakers

Del. Irene Shin

State Delegate, Virginia General Assembly

Irene is a longtime community organizer turned legislator. The daughter of immigrants, she became the first Korean-American woman to serve in the Virginia General Assembly when she was first elected in 2021. Irene serves on four committees: Communications Technology and Innovation... Read More →

Rep. Park Cannon

State Representative, Georgia-58

Park Cannon serves District 58, which encompasses 20 neighborhoods within in-town Atlanta. Her legislative efforts focus on reproductive justice issues such as access to quality health care, housing & education. Rep. Cannon seeks to stop the erosion of affordability for basic needs... Read More →

Rep. Ruwa Romman

State Representative, GA

Representative Ruwa Romman worked at Deloitte Consulting assisting stakeholders by advising, implementing, and developing improved strategies to address policy challenges at the local, state, and federal level. In 2020, Ruwa leveraged her platform to inform thousands of Georgians... Read More →

Neha Patel

Co-Executive Director, State Innovation Exchange

Neha Patel is SiX’s Co-Executive Director. Growing up in the Midwest (Indiana/Michigan) as the child of immigrants, she believes fiercely in the American Dream—where opportunity exists only if we fight for it on behalf of all of us. This foundational belief led Neha to a lifelong... Read More →

Mũthoni Wambu Kraal

Co-Founder and Executive Director, Women's Democracy Lab

Mũthoni is a Co-Founder and the Executive Director of the Women's Democracy Lab (WDL), where she leads innovative efforts to address key challenges faced by elected Indigenous women and women of color at the state and local levels. Additionally, Muthoni is the Founder and Principal... Read More →

Rep. Aftyn Behn

State Representative, Tennessee-51

Representative Aftyn Behn, LMSW represents Nashville as the youngest woman in the House. She's formerly the Campaign Director for RuralOrganizing.org, overseeing the organization's electoral strategy and execution and shaping the political and policy landscape impacting small towns... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 9 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

Governing While Black - North Star: Finding Your Purpose and Staying Grounded

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 4 Breakout

In this session, participants will reflect and define their greater purpose in public service and in home/life and take inventory of the relationship between their purpose and their time, learning new tools and strategies for organizing and prioritizing and finding fellowship and affirmation.

Speakers

Tom Lenard

Michigan State Director, SiX

Tom Lenard is the Michigan State Director for SiX and serves as the lead SiX staff for the Progressive Governance Academy. Prior to joining SiX, Tom served for years as Senior Advisor to Senate Democratic Leader Jim Ananich of Flint, Michigan. As such, he worked to help respond... Read More →

Kara Aisha Hollingsworth

Progressive Governance Academy

Kara brings 20 years of training design, facilitation, organizational development, coaching and project management experience to the movement. Over her career, Kara has advised and managed highly contested campaigns, served as a Congressional liaison, navigated teams through complex... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 4 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

Power and Greed: How Agriculture Policy Has Shaped America and How State Legislators Can Drive Change

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 5 Breakout

This panel sheds light on the history and current power dynamics of the food and farm system—a system with broad impacts on the climate, economy, public health, immigration, and more. Attendees will be prompted to think critically about how agriculture policy choices have fueled the consolidation of power and wealth not just in farming but in the economy and culture, and even impacted the US political landscape. Participants will recognize their own ability to engage in this space and make change through building relationships and shared power with a range of stakeholders and impacted communities.

Speakers

Rep. Sonya Marie Harper

State Representative, Illinois-6

Sonya Marie Harper has been a community activist on the South Side since she was 16 years old. Her passions include promoting community, economic development and civic engagement in an effort to create more peaceful and prosperous neighborhoods. Harper spent over a decade working... Read More →

Kenneth Palmer

SiX Staff Session Lead

Kendra Kimbirauskas

SiX Staff Session Lead

Kendra serves as the Director of Agriculture and Food Systems at SiX. Kendra oversees SiX’s rural, sustainable agriculture and food systems work. She works with national staff at SiX as well as in-state and national partners to promote progressive agriculture policies and legislation... Read More →

Siena Chrisman

SiX Staff Session Lead

Rep. Megan Srinivas

State Representative, Iowa-30

Dr. Megan Srinivas, the youngest woman of color elected to state-level office in Iowa, serves in the state House of Representatives (HD-30). She is an infectious disease physician and translational health policy researcher who focuses on delivering care to rural and low-resource settings... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 5 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

We Know What We Need: Centering Community Solutions in Maternal Health Care Policy and Infrastructure

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 8 Breakout

Systemic patterns of oppression have ensured that Black people, people of color, Indigenous people, people with low incomes, young people, people in rural areas and gender-expansive people have less access to, and lower quality of, health care in the U.S. This reality is starkly illustrated by the ongoing maternal mortality and morbidity crisis, particularly for Black and Indigenous birthing people. Workforce shortages and hospital closures further limit access to maternal health care at the same time as restrictions on reproductive health increase risks to pregnant people. Birth centers, midwives, and doulas have proven solutions to respond to the needs of pregnant people in their communities—both rural and urban—to improve quality of care and outcomes, but often face barriers at the state level to implementing them. Panelists will provide key insights on the historical and current landscape of maternal health, case studies from a regionally diverse set of states, and concrete strategies for state legislators to meet this moment.

Speakers

Dr. Natalie D. Hernandez-Green

Executive Director, Center for Maternal Health Equity

Dr. Hernandez-Green is an Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Founding and Executive Director of the Center for Maternal Health Equity at Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM). She earned her Master of Public Health from Emory University and her... Read More →

Jamarah Amani

Executive Director, Southern Birth Justice Network

Jamarah Amani is a Black, femme and queer community midwife. Jamarah is the architect of the Black Midwives Model of Care and the Birth Justice Bill of Rights. She is also the founder of Black Midwives Day, a nationally-recognized holiday.Jamarah is the Executive Director of Southern... Read More →

Sen. Liz Miranda

State Senator, Massachusetts-2nd Suffolk

Massachusetts State Senator Liz Miranda serves the 2nd Suffolk District in Boston, MA.Senator Miranda currently serves as the Chairwoman for the Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion, Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development, and serves as... Read More →

Sen. London Lamar

State Senator, Tennessee-33

London P. Lamar is a dynamic leader and strategist committed to social justice and community empowerment. As State Senator for Tennessee’s District 33 and Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus, she is the youngest African American and woman elected to the Tennessee Senate, where... Read More →

Fran Linkin

Director of Research, Reproductive Rights, SiX

Fran’s eighteen year career in reproductive rights and health spans the fields of public health, policy, and advocacy. Since 2019, Fran has worked to create unique spaces and opportunities for the state legislators in SiX's Reproductive Freedom Leadership Council to connect with... Read More →

Jennifer Driver

SiX Staff Session Lead

Breana N. Lipscomb

Senior Advisor, Maternal Health and Rights, Center for Reproductive Rights

Breana Lipscomb is the Senior Advisor of Maternal Health and Rights for the Center for Reproductive Rights. She has nearly 20 years of public health experience, and in her current role, she uses a human rights framework to develop advocacy strategies to advance maternal health equity... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 8 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

10:30am EST

What Now? Regrouping After the Election

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST

International 10 Breakout

It’s been six weeks since another consequential election and in spite of a national fixation on federal races, state legislatures continue to be the most important locus of both forward progress and anti-democratic backsliding. In this session, we’ll gather in the aftermath of the election to regroup and strategize about how state leaders can build a democracy that works for all of us while blocking the rise of authoritarianism in state houses.

Speakers

Rep. Jasmine Clark

State Representative, Georgia-108

Dr. Jasmine Clark is a Georgia native and mother of two. She has a BS and PhD is Microbiology, and currently serves as an Assistant Teaching Professor at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. After running on a platform of bringing a science voice to the GA General Assembly, Jasmine Clark... Read More →

Jessie Ulibarri

Co-Executive Director, State Innovation Exchange (SiX)

Hon. Jessie Ulibarri is SiX’s Co-Executive Director. As a queer person of color, as a parent, and as someone who grew up in a trailer park, Jessie viscerally understands the demands the progressive movement makes of our elected officials for radical, transformative change. As a... Read More →

Ivan Luevanos-Elms

Executive Director, Local Progress & Local Progress Impact Lab

Ivan Luevanos-Elms is the Executive Director of Local Progress and the Local Progress Impact Lab. Ivan is applying his nearly 15 years of experience in municipal government, electoral campaigns and grassroots organizing to helping the more than 1500 elected officials across the country... Read More →

Taifa Smith Butler

President, Demos

Taifa Smith Butler (she/her) is the President of Demos, a movement-oriented think tank committed to racial justice. Through research, litigation, strategic communications, and deep partnerships with grassroots organizations across the country, Demos builds power with and for Black... Read More →

Kesi Foster

Co-Executive Director, Partners for Dignity and Rights (P4DR)

Kesi is the Co-Executive Director at Partners for Dignity and Rights (P4DR) where he works in partnership with community organizations organizing to secure and expand social and economic rights and building power towards a more just and equitable future for all. He was previously... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 10:30am - 11:45am EST
International 10 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block B

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Bridging Divides: Strategies for Advancing Progressive Agendas Together with Rural Communities

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 5 Breakout

This panel will focus on breaking barriers and reshaping the narrative on agriculture and broader rural issues. Legislators and advocates will share stories of unexpected coalitions and organizing wins across traditional “divides.” Through thought-provoking and inspiring real-life examples, participants will learn ways to cultivate long-term power by working with rural communities and advocating for policies that positively impact rural lives. (This content builds from “Power and Greed” in the previous session but also stands well on its own.)

Speakers

Rep. J.D. Scholten

State Representative, Iowa-1

J.D. Scholten was born in Iowa and raised in Sioux City. He attended Morningside College, where he played baseball for his father who was the Head Coach. J.D. transferred for his Senior year to the University of Nebraska where he led the Cornhuskers in earned run average on the College... Read More →

Liz Rupel

Deputy Director, Illinois Stewardship Alliance

Liz Rupel is the Deputy Director for the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. She began her journey with the Alliance as a Farmers Market intern in 2016 and has since developed her community organizing skills, deep commitment to the mission, and drive for change. Liz believes that making... Read More →

Rep. Kristi Pursell

State Representative, Minnesota-58A

Representative Kristi Pursell was born in Rochester, Minnesota, and graduated from Saint Olaf College with a bachelor's degree in English and environmental studies. She also received a graduate certificate in environmental education from the University of Minnesota Duluth.Rep. Pursell... Read More →

Rep. Juanita O. Brent

State Representative, Ohio-22

Rep. Juanita O. Brent is a third term State Representative in Ohio. Serving as ranking member of House Agriculture committee, Rep. Brent has introduced policy that focus on soil health, hair discrimination, black maternal health and equity in policy decisions.

Kendra Kimbirauskas

SiX Staff Session Lead

Siena Chrisman

SiX Staff Session Lead

Sen. Hillman T. Frazier

State Senator, Mississippi-27

Hillman T. Frazier is a progressive legislator who has served in both the House and Senate. He currently serves as chair of the Interstate and Federal Cooperation Committee and subcommittee chair of the Appropriations Committee for Community Colleges in the Mississippi Senate. He... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 5 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Care as Public Good: Building a Care Economy that Empowers Working Families

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 8 Breakout

Care work impacts every single person in all stages of our lives. Whether it’s child care, health care, elder care, care for persons with disabilities, or sick and paid leave, care is essential to our irresistible futures. The care economy is also rapidly growing, but it is historically gendered, racialized, and increasingly at risk of consolidated corporate control. Corporate-run care prioritizes shareholder profits over the well-being of care workers and those receiving care, and leverages corporate lobbying power to undermine our organizing and maximize profits. In fact, many of the workers providing care for our loved ones are overworked, underpaid, and unable to provide care for their own families. But state legislators and caregivers across the country are challenging corporate power and building economies that value care not as a product, but as a public good. From paid family medical leave, to public retirement and child care, to workers rights, this workshop centers the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of state leaders across the country challenging corporate power and building care economies that create good jobs, advance equity, and empower people.

Speakers

Jared Make

Vice President, A Better Balance

Jared Make serves as Vice President at A Better Balance (ABB), where he works alongside advocates and coalitions around the country to write and pass laws guaranteeing paid sick time and paid family and medical leave. With his colleagues at ABB, Jared has helped to draft laws that... Read More →

Harish I. Patel

Vice President, Economic Security Project

Through organizing, leadership on racial and gender justice, and a commitment to connecting on-the-ground perspective to policy, Harish I. Patel moves big ideas forward that have the power to transform our economy. Previously Harish founded and served as the director of Economic Security... Read More →

Azani Creeks

Senior Research and Campaign Coordinator, Private Equity Stakeholder Project

Azani Creeks is a Senior Research and Campaign Coordinator at the Private Equity Stakeholder Project, where she focuses on private equity's impacts on workers. Prior to joining PESP, Azani worked in the strategic research departments of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and... Read More →

Sen. Antonio Hayes

State Senator, Maryland-40

Senator Antonio Hayes was first elected to the Maryland Senate in 2019; he served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates from 2015-2019.Senator Hayes has held several key leadership roles, including Senate Majority Whip and Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus. He currently... Read More →

Ian Pfeiffer

SiX Staff Session Lead

Rep. Lydia Glaize

State Representative, Georgia-67

Lydia Glaize, a former educator and esteemed community leader, serves as the House Representative for Georgia's 67th District. Her dedication to education, community outreach, and sustainable solutions has made her a key figure in youth, education, and senior issues. As the Education... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 8 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Collaborative Governance: Building People Power Beyond Elections

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 9 Breakout

How do we move past electoral cycles to ensure that real change is felt by the communities who need it most? More so than any particular civic engagement strategy, a burgeoning practice of collaborative governance holds the greatest promise of giving people the power to truly drive meaningful change. Across the country, policymakers, advocates and grassroots leaders are employing collaborative governance to build lasting power and to win justice for their communities. This is the first of a two-part, repeating series in which speakers will share inspiring stories of this new practice at work, giving the audience glimpses of a future political reality they will find irresistible—one in which intersectional problems are met with intersectional responses, and in which the people most impacted by policy have true power in shaping it.

Speakers

Margaret Gomez

Colorado State Director, State InnovationExchange

Maggie Gómez has dedicated nearly two decades to grassroots community organizing with women and communities of color to build deep power for collective action and policy wins. Prior to SiX, Maggie has led grassroots organizing and policy efforts for paid sick leave, paid family medical... Read More →

Jordyn Bussey

Director of Legislation, American Pride Rises

Jordyn Bussey is the Director of Legislation for Deliver the American Dream, the c4 arm of the American Pride Rises Network. In this role, Jordyn develops and implements the organization's strategy to engage on DEI-related legislation in the states and support legislators and allies... Read More →

Francesca Menes

Deputy Organizing Director, Local Progress

Francesca Menes is the Deputy Organizing Director at Local Progress, a movement of local elected officials advancing a racial and economic justice agenda. Francesca is a political educator, legislative and policy strategist, entrepreneur and former television host committed to creating... Read More →

Sen. Arthur L. Haywood

State Senator, Pennsylvania-4

Art is a determined fighter for all people and has won many battles, committed to making Pennsylvania a place where everyone can live with dignity. He has secured $100 million in annual funding for affordable housing, $14 million for mobile, school, and community health clinics to... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 9 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Criminalization of the Body and the Surveillance State

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 6 Breakout

The U.S. has the highest incarceration rate of any independent democracy on earth—worse, every single state incarcerates more people per capita than most nations. In the global context, even “progressive” U.S. states like New York and Massachusetts appear as extreme as Louisiana and Mississippi in their use of prisons and jails. The impact and policy choices of incarceration span from broken families, housing implications, workforce, education, and more. Attendees will learn from experts about the intersections of drug policy, abortion access, LGBTQ+ justice, family separation caused by the child welfare system, immigrant rights, labor, and agriculture. This session will look at what policy solutions are available and how state lawmakers can respond to this crisis of incarceration in their communities.

Speakers

Cristina I. Ramirez

Criminal Defense Lead, Sissy Farenthold Reproductive Justice Defense Project

Cristina I. Ramirez is the criminal defense lead of the Sissy Farenthold Reproductive Justice Defense Project at the Rapoport Center for Human Rights and Justice at Texas Law. Prior to this role, Cristina served as a public defender in the Travis County Public Defender’s Office... Read More →

Jennifer Driver

SiX Staff Session Lead

Rosann Mariappuram

Senior Policy Counsel, Reproductive Rights, SiX

Rosann Mariappuram, J.D. M.A. (she/her) is a lawyer and advocate who has been part of the movements for reproductive health, rights and justice for over a decade. She is the former executive director of Jane’s Due Process, a nonprofit that fights for young people’s bodily autonomy... Read More →

Karen D. Thompson

Legal Director, Pregnancy Justice

Karen Thompson is the Legal Director of Pregnancy Justice where she leads a team of attorneys in defending women and all those with the capacity to become pregnant from being criminalized because of their pregnancies or pregnancy outcomes. Karen oversees the strategic litigation and... Read More →

Denise Tomasini-Joshi

Co-Executive Director, If/When/How

Denise Tomasini-Joshi is an advocate whose work has touched upon issues of mental health, health policy, criminal legal reform, women’s rights, economic development, and marginalized populations. She is a former Chief of Staff at the Innocence Project, and previously held a series... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 6 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Fund Our Futures: Tax & Budgets that Work for Working Families

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 7 Breakout

While state budgets prepare for revenue shortfalls, the ultra-rich, corporations, and their lobbyists have rigged the rules to redirect resources from our communities to their country clubs, from our classrooms to their ballrooms, and from our public parks to their private jets. But state legislators, in collaboration with grassroots organizations, organized labor, and local businesses, are stepping up and organizing year-round to deliver for our families with tax systems to ensure the ultra-rich and corporations pay the taxes they owe and working families get what they’re due. From wealth taxes, corporate tax policies like worldwide combined reporting, and child tax credits, this workshop brings together lawmakers, organizers, and policy experts from states across the country working together to transform the state revenue and budget landscape to support working families rather than the wealthy.

Speakers

Jeron Mariani

Campaigns Director, State Revenue Alliance

Jeron Mariani (he/him/his) works as the Campaigns Director at the State Revenue Alliance. Jeron is a lifelong organizer committed to the power of the people to advocate, agitate, and affect change - a value passed on from his father who served in the Minnesota State House for over... Read More →

Afifa Khaliq

Chief of Staff, SEIU Florida Public Services Union

Afifa Khaliq is the chief of staff of the SEIU Florida Public Services Union. She is a strategic thinker, communicator, collaborator and program developer who provides social development solutions. Afifa has worked on racial injustices, women empowerment, challenging the socio-economic... Read More →

Stacey E Shinn

SiX Staff Session Lead

Rep. Chris Rabb

State Representative, Pennsylvania-200

Rabble-rousing 4-term Philly state lawmaker, reppin’ the bluest legislative district in the most pivotal battleground state in the nation!

Whitney Tucker

Director of State Fiscal Policy Research, Center on Budget & Policy Priorities

Whitney Tucker is Director of State Fiscal Policy Research on the State Fiscal Policy team at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, leading an expert team of analysts in shaping policy debate through issue research and technical support to state-level advocates.Prior to joining... Read More →

Erika Wozniak

Legislative Director, State Revenue Alliance

Erika Wozniak (she/her) is the Legislative Director at the State Revenue Alliance. In 2023, she served as a political adviser on Mayor Brandon Johnson’s campaign and transition team, and prior to that served as Chief of Staff to a Chicago City Council member.Erika started her career... Read More →

Sen. Noel Frame

Senator-Elect, WA State Senate

Noel Frame (she/her) has represented the people of the 36th Legislative District since January 2016, first as their State Representative and now as State Senator.Noel is an award-winning legislator, having been honored more than 15 times for her work advocating for youth involved... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 7 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

How You Lead, How Others Lead, and How You Can Work Together Better

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 4 Breakout

In this session, participants will explore the different leadership styles of elected officials, including their own leadership style and how it may change depending on issue or context and how they most authentically show up to the job of being an elected official. The participants then work collaboratively to discuss the strengths of various leadership styles and tensions that can arise within group dynamics and also the importance of building teams that include different approaches to governing.

Speakers

Tom Lenard

Michigan State Director, SiX

Rep. Anna V. Eskamani

State Representative, Florida-42

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 4 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

1:15pm EST

Reimagining the Peoples’ House: Modernizing Our State Legislatures

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST

International 10 Breakout

What does it mean for our democracy when nearly 90% of all state legislators are paid less than their state’s median household income and fewer than 2 percent hold working-class jobs? Or when nearly 8 in 10 of our nation’s 7,383 state lawmakers are white, though people of color represent roughly 40% of adults in the US? From our nation’s founding, state legislatures have been exclusive institutions designed to uphold the interests of the wealthy and well-connected elite. If we are to build an irresistible future, we also need to level the playing field in state legislatures, where the rules of the game are currently rigged in favor of corporate interests and far-right extremists. In this workshop, participants will reimagine state legislatures as the People’s House—democratic institutions designed to center community voices and power.

Speakers

Sen. Faith K. Winter

State Senator, Colorado-25

Senator Faith Winter started her political career inspiring people into action, including training thousands of women to run for office at The White House Project and fighting for environmental justice.In 2007 she was elected to the Westminster City Council where she was a leader... Read More →

Anthony Gad

SiX Staff Session Lead

Julia Isaacs Tse

Director of Special Projects

Aditi Juneja

Executive Director, Democracy 2076

Aditi Juneja is the Executive Director of Democracy 2076, an organization founded in 2023 working long-term to change our Constitution, political culture, and political parties. She was most recently Chief of Staff at the Movement Voter Project and previously spent 4 years at Protect... Read More →

Del. Elizabeth Bennett-Parker

Delegate, 5th Virginia House District

Elizabeth Bennett-Parker is the Delegate for the 5th Virginia House District, located in Alexandria.Elizabeth is the fifth member of the House of Delegates to give birth while in office (in 405 years), and she is committed to supporting children and families. She has championed early... Read More →

Sarah Hague

Chief Program Officer, Vote Mama Foundation

Sarah is a political social worker who has spent her career engaging young adults and womxn in government and politics. Sarah has started Youth Advisory Boards for 4 Congressmembers, mobilizing over 500 students. At Vote Mama Foundation, she spearheads the organization’s work on... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 1:15pm - 2:30pm EST
International 10 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block D

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

Collaborative Governance: The “Software” Necessary to Accomplish Your Goals

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 4 Breakout

Achieving transformative governance outcomes requires organizing, coalition- and ally-building, and understanding and moving powerful actors in your community. This module engages participants in the necessary steps to organize to achieve a goal and how to include communities most impacted by policy change in legislative campaigns.

Speakers

Tom Lenard

Michigan State Director, SiX

Rep. Julie von Haefen

State Representative, North Carolina-36

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 4 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

Creating An Irresistible Future for Reproductive Health, Rights, and Justice: Looking to 2025

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 6 Breakout

How do we not only defeat threats and move proactive policy, but also create the big tent needed for state legislators to work alongside each other for reproductive health, rights, and justice in its most expansive form while we are doing it? The SiX Reproductive Rights Team will provide a brief overview of expected challenges and opportunities in the states and facilitate an engaging discussion with the state legislators and advocates in the room on 1) concrete policy, caucus, and movement building strategies, 2) current litigation efforts and how they interact with legislative strategy, and 3) tailored resource recommendations for state legislators to respond to whatever is coming their way. In our current patchwork of reproductive health policies, we know that what happens in one state impacts, informs, or inspires another and welcome all to attend, share, and build out your network of support across state lines.

Speakers

Fran Linkin

Director of Research, Reproductive Rights, SiX

Rosann Mariappuram

Senior Policy Counsel, Reproductive Rights, SiX

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 6 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

Defending Democracy Against Abusive Preemptions & Restoring Local Power

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 8 Breakout

From death star preemptions, to removing democratically-elected officials, state takeovers of local jurisdictions, and banning local innovations on every policy issue under the sun—guaranteed income, fair wages, education, climate and conservation, LGBTQ+ rights, abortion, community IDs, animal rights, and housing—extremists and corporations are leveraging abusive preemptions laws to centralize their control of our communities and maintain structural disparities based on race, gender, and class. These efforts are not new.They are tactics used by corporations like Big Tobacco for decades, rooted in Jim Crow era practices to undercut Black leadership. How can legislators, local electeds, and impacted communities organize collaboratively to fight back and restore local power? What solutions do we have to curtail the rampant abuse of preemption? From repealing abusive preemptions to strengthening home rule in our state constitutions, learn from national experts, legislators, and organizers on the latest efforts to restore local power to the people.

Speakers

LiJia Gong

Policy and Legal Director, Local Progress

LiJia Gong is the Policy and Legal director at Local Progress. She leads the development of Local Progress’s policy, legal, and research capacity to support members, and drives the development and growth of national program areas. LiJia is an attorney with more than 15 years of... Read More →

Korey T. Johnson, Esq.

State Campaign Consultant, Local Solutions Support Center

Susan Nogan

Senior Research Analyst, National Education Association (NEA)

For more than 20 years, Susan Nogan has followed and mapped the adversaries of public education and organized labor. As a research analyst for the National Education Association, she provides expert advice and guidance regarding their strategies and tactics, to support preparation... Read More →

Shafeka Hashash

Associate Director, Economic Security Project

Shafeka holds a birdseye view of guaranteed income work across the nation from implementing pilots to policy development. As a community organizer, she has led campaigns ranging from closing a Fair Labor Standards Act loophole that allowed disabled employees to be paid subminimum... Read More →

Ida V. Eskamani

SiX Staff Session Lead

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 8 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

Depolarizing Care for Trans Youth

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 7 Breakout

This session will convene state legislators, researchers, policy experts, and healthcare providers to discuss gender-affirming care (GAC) for transgender youth. Attendees will hear from providers and learn how their insights can support lawmakers when developing defensive and proactive policy strategies. Researchers and policy experts will update participants on the evolving national healthcare landscape for trans youth. By the end of the session, participants will have access to new communication strategies designed to depolarize the narrative around trans youth and their access to care.

Speakers

Tom Lenard

Michigan State Director, SiX

Dr. Jenni Villavicencio

ObGyn and Complex Family Planning Specialist, Co-Founder Raven Lab Repro

Jennifer Villavicencio, MD, MPP is a Cuban American who was born in Miami, FL. She is the daughter of an immigrant and a nurse. She received her Bachelor's in Neuroscience from the University of Miami and her medical education at the University of Central Florida. She graduated from... Read More →

Hudson McCormick

SiX Staff Session Lead

Logan S. Casey

Director of Policy Research, Movement Advancement Project (MAP)

Logan S. Casey (he/him) is queer, transgender man and a proud Midwesterner. He strongly believes in the power of community and the possibility of a better world. In his sixth year with the Movement Advancement Project (MAP), he is now MAP’s Director of Policy Research. Before his... Read More →

Sincere A. Porter

Trans Health Coordinator, Feminist Health Center of Atlanta

10-year Army Veteran with service to community the last 24 years. Focus specifically on BIPOC Trans Men, Trans Masculine and TGNC communities. Advocacy is grounded in Reproductive Justice, Gender Affirming Care, HIV/STI Prevention and counseling, SSP/Harm Reduction, Trans Liberation... Read More →

Dr. Kellan Baker

Executive Director, Whitman-Walker Institute

Dr. Kellan Baker is the Executive Director of Whitman-Walker Institute, which fosters healthier communities and advances health equity for all through person-centered health science research, innovative clinical trials, and evidence-based policy solutions. The Institute is affiliated... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 7 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

The Future of AI: Taking on Big Tech in the Workplace & Ballot Box

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 9 Breakout

Technology can be used to advance or undermine progress. Tech companies and employers that use these tools are taking advantage of the emergent nature of these technologies to dictate regulatory frameworks, including whether there is one at all. But contrary to what the tech industry might suggest, the proliferation of these abusive tools isn’t inevitable or uncontrollable. They can and should be regulated, including prohibited, to safeguard our rights. It is imperative that state legislators understand these harms, who is behind them, and to collaborate with impacted communities to fight back. This workshop focuses on a series of reports released by SiX, Kairos, and Economic Security Project—centering the work of legislators and organizers to hold Big Tech accountable and center people as well as equity in AI.

Speakers

Jelani Drew-Davi

Senior Communications Strategist, Kairos Fellowship

Jelani is a Black, queer, organizer from the South dedicated to building power for their communities online and offline. Jelani enjoys long reads through Twitter and taking any chance to drag Big Tech CEOs. Jelani’s organizing interest is at the intersection of racial justice and... Read More →

Teri Olle

Director, Economic Security California

Teri Olle is the Director of Economic Security California, an affiliate of Economic Security Project, which works to build an economy where everyone has the freedom and stability to thrive. Teri drives Economic Security California's campaigns to expand direct cash payments, such as... Read More →

Ian Pfeiffer

SiX Staff Session Lead

Pat Garofalo

Director of State and Local Policy, American Economic Liberties Project

Matt Scherer

Senior Policy Counsel for Workers’ Rights and Technology, Center for Democracy & Technology

Matt Scherer is Senior Policy Counsel for Workers’ Rights and Technology at the Center for Democracy & Technology. He studies how emerging technologies affect workers in the workplace and labor market, including the impacts of emerging digital surveillance and management technologies... Read More →

Cynthia Conti-Cook

Director of Research and Policy, Surveillance Resistance Lab

Cynthia Conti-Cook is a legal and policy strategist working at the intersection of technology and justice movements. She is currently the Director of Research and Policy at the Surveillance Resistance Lab. Previously, she advised the Ford Foundation’s Gender, Racial, and Ethnic... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 9 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

The Story We Tell Matters: How to Craft an Irresistible Narrative

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 10 Breakout

As Audre Lorde famously noted, “There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives.” We cannot talk about the threats to reproductive rights, for example, without connecting to other issues like democracy, economic justice, and rural issues. Learn and actively create with community partners, state legislators, and other communications experts how to build cross-issue communications strategies that work in your community.

Speakers

Crystal Monds

Communications and Digital Media Coordinator, Amplify Georgia Collaborative

Crystal Monds (she/they) is a BlaQueer Southern-born healing practitioner and visual artist whose cultural ties to Creole and Deep South identities inform her work to better serve, center, and nurture gender-marginalized folks in her community. This background is where Crystal’s... Read More →

Eme Crawford

SiX Staff Session Lead

Roula AbiSamra

Amplify Georgia Collaborative

Rep. Anna V. Eskamani

State Representative, Florida-42

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 10 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media

2:45pm EST

What’s in the Toolshed: Tactics for Legislators to Champion Agricultural & Rural Communities

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST

International 5 Breakout

As two prior panels today have discussed, engaging on agriculture and broader rural issues can be a powerful way to build power but can feel challenging to progressive legislators. In this panel, participants will hear from legislator colleagues and issue experts about specific tools and tactics that have helped them advance their goals in this space, from messaging tips for rural communities to creative workarounds when powerful interests block legislation. (This content builds from “Beyond Divides” in the previous session but also stands on its own.)

Speakers

Annie Contractor

Virtual Speaker

Rep. B. Ray Jeffers

State Representative, North Carolina-2

Rep. B. Ray Jeffers is a farmer and former county commissioner. He was just re-elected to a second term as a Democratic member of the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing the 2nd district, including all of Person County, as well as part of Durham County. Jeffers previously... Read More →

Emma Newton

SiX Staff Session Lead

Siena Chrisman

SiX Staff Session Lead

Rep. Chris Rabb

State Representative, Pennsylvania-200

Rabble-rousing 4-term Philly state lawmaker, reppin’ the bluest legislative district in the most pivotal battleground state in the nation!

Dr. Tim Boring

Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

Dr. Tim Boring was appointed by Governor Whitmer on March 27, 2023. He previously served as the State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency.Boring's family operates a six generation farm in Stockbridge, Michigan. Prior to his appointment at the USDA, he was the president and... Read More →

Sen. Natalie Murdock

State Senator, North Carolina

As a native North Carolinian, UNC alum, and local elected official, Natalie has spent a lifetime learning about the strengths and challenges of North Carolina. She has committed her life to public service. She is the NC State Senator for District 20, which encompasses Durham and Chatham... Read More →

Thursday December 12, 2024 2:45pm - 4:00pm EST
International 5 Breakout

Breakout, Breakout Block E

Host Organization State Innovation Exchange
Media Closed to Media