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Log CM for AICP

Panel Discussion

Navigating the Political Landscape

Leading Change: Planning Strong Futures for Black Communities

Monday, April 27, 2026
8:30 AM - 9:15 AM CT
Location: HPCC, Room 420AB
CM: .75
Division Endorsement: Planning and the Black Community Division
The evolving political climate has direct and disproportionate impacts on Black communities, from housing and economic development to healthcare access and environmental justice. Black planning directors are uniquely positioned at the intersection of policy, community advocacy, and professional leadership. This presentation brings together past and present planning directors from across the country to examine how national- and state-level policy shifts are reshaping planning priorities. Panelists reflect on their lived and professional experiences navigating these political dynamics, highlight challenges and opportunities for planners, and discuss how planning professionals can collaborate to address the most pressing needs in Black communities. Leave with practical frameworks for embedding tools for building cross-sector coalitions.
Closed Captioning

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify recent national policies and legislative shifts that are influencing planning priorities for Black communities.
  • Apply practical tools for buildilng coalitions among planners, policymakers, and community leaders.
  • Evaluate effective strategies to navigate political challenges and advance sustainable planning.