Economic Progress Institute honors RIBLIA Caucus as Legislative Champions for Progress

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From the left - Weayonnoh Nelson-Davies, executive director of EPI, Sen. Tiara Mack (D-Dist. 6, Providence), Rep. David Morales (D-Dist. 7, Providence), Rep. Jennifer Stewart (D-Dist. 59, Pawtucket), and Sen. Jonathon Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket) at EPI’s 13th annual Policy and Budget Conference in Providence.

 

            STATE HOUSE – The Economic Progress Institute (EPI) honored the Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian-American and Pacific Islander Caucus (RIBLIA) as Legislative Champions for Progress on Sept. 30 at EPI’s 13th annual Policy and Budget Conference that was held in Providence.

            The caucus is chaired by Sen. Jonathon Acosta (D-Dist. 16, Central Falls, Pawtucket) and Rep. Leonela Felix (D-Dist. 61, Pawtucket).

            RIBLIA was honored for their dedication and advocacy to lifting up the downtrodden, defending the marginalized and ensuring a fair and equitable society for all Rhode Islanders.  Four bills from RIBLIA’s 2024 policy agenda became law this past legislative session, with the new laws relating to rent increases, minimum wage for domestic workers, temporary caregiver insurance, and legal protections for health care providers.

            “It’s an honor to be recognized by EPI because for decades, they have been leading the fight to ensure that all Rhode Islanders are supported and included in our state.  RIBLIA will continue to advocate for all of Rhode Island’s residents and their quality of life, and we look forward to continue our work and partnership with EPI to ensure that our state works for everyone,” said co-Chairs Acosta and Felix.

            “The members of the RIBLIA Caucus challenge and inspire us to think and act boldly in advocating for a just society where all Rhode Islanders can thrive,” said Economic Progress Institute Executive Director Weayonnoh Nelson-Davies. “EPI is honored to recognize them with our highest awards because they are helping to build a better Rhode Island — one that works for everyone.”

            The RIBLIA Caucus represents and advocates for the interests of disadvantaged people throughout the State of Rhode Island. It seeks to increase a diverse participation and representation in all levels of government. The goal is to close, and ultimately to eliminate, disparities that still exist between white and non-white Americans in every aspect of life.

            The Economic Progress Institute – formerly The Poverty Institute – is a nonpartisan research and policy organization dedicated to improving the economic well-being of low- and modest-income Rhode Islanders.

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