I’ve heard consensus among conference goers that this was one of the best conferences CAPACD’ has ever put on.   Having been to the past four conferneces, I’d have to agree.  It wasn’t just the after-hour activities that made this one memorable though.  The content of the conference gave everyone something to think about.  This was really true for me — especially coming from a local, neighborhood perspective.  So here are some brief reflections that I’ve taken home to San Francisco with me.

First.  We are in a real moment to affect change on a federal level.  This was made clear to me by not only who came to conference (Adolfo Carrion, Hilda Solis, etc.) but by what they had to say.  The message was loud and clear.  We’re no longer on the outside.  It’s our turn.  We got a seat at the table — but we better come strong.

Second.  Now is the time to start thinking about federal policy and how our local work relates up.  What local community development models can we bring to the forefront.  More importantly, how do our communities fit into the bigger picture discussions happening right now. How do we fit within the “metropolitan” strategy discussed at the workshop with Adolfo Carrion?  How do we support some of the exciting “integrated metro/community” investment strategies being spearheaded by the White House Office on Urban Affairs?  How do we make sure that within this conversation – the communities we serve don’t get left behind?  How and do we want to fit into the critical ongoing dialogue on modernizing (or “reframing”) the Community Reinvestment Act?  In this era of economic recession — how do we leverage some of the existing regulatory mechanisms to ensure that bailed out financial institutions continue to invest in community development?  How do we create a new standard of responsibility that will mandate this type of investment going forward?

How do we build coalitions — whether it’s multi-racial/ethnic — or multi-sector to amplify our voice and concerns.  We shouldn’t forget that it’s a big world out there.  AA’s and NHPI’s are a small group, both demographically and (I hate to say it) politically.  We’re living in a “post-racial” world now.  To me, that doesn’t mean that race doesn’t matter.  It means that race cannot be the only thing that matters.  It means that we have to be clear about how and why we matter.  It again returns us to this question of what we’re bringing to the table.

Third.  Activism matters.  The Administration is taking the lead on a lot of things.  But it doesn’t mean they’re going to get it right on everything.  We have to stay on our toes and continue to organize and advocate.  That’s our ultimate mechanism for accountability.  This has been a strength for a lot of us.  We should makes sure moving forward that we continue to invest in and grow our capacity for organizing and advocacy.

Even though the conference is done.  I’m now more excited by what’s to come.  Hope you are too.  See you in (DC ???) next year.

The National CAPACD C0nvention was a huge success.  We got a lot of great feedback, and many said that this was the best convention to date!  Thank you all for joining us, and for those who couldn’t make it, here are some pictures from the conference.  You can find more pictures on the National CAPACD Social Network at www.nationalcapacd.ning.com.

Congressman Abercrombie joined the National CAPACD family at the Welcome Reception on June 3rd. He stayed and mingled with National CAPACD members and delivered a powerful speech for everyone.

Congressman Barney Frank Accepting the Power of Change Award at the National CAPACD 10th Anniversary Gala

U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Hilda Solis Takes the Podium

Next Generation Leadership Scholars pose for a picture with National CAPACD Board Members and Mentors.

Gala attendees were impressed with the Nen Daiko Taiko Drummers.

We here at National CAPACD are really excited to have hundreds of our friends, colleagues and allies join us in Washington, DC this year.  The entire staff of National CAPACD are working hard to put together the most exciting and fun schedule of events, speakers, workshops, and tours.

We hope you enjoy your time here, and for those of you who are not able to join us this year, please keep posted on the National CAPACD Social Network and Website for ways to keep engaged!