What becomes possible when we give ourselves permission to imagine beyond what we have seen before?

MDC staff recently joined leaders, organizers, artists, advocates, and institutional partners in Washington, D.C., for PolicyLink Summit 2026: We Are the Founders. Across plenaries, breakout conversations, immersive art experiences, and informal gatherings, the Summit invited participants to explore a powerful question: If we succeeded in building a nation that governs for all, what would people experience differently in everyday life? Representing MDC were Jenna Bryant, Brandy Bynum Dawson, Calvin Allen, Merald Holloway, and Kamilah Pickett. They returned with new connections, challenging questions, and renewed energy for translating principles into practice and advancing lasting structural change. The week also offered opportunities to connect with valued partners, including Genny Castillo of the Southern Economic Advancement Project, Robyn Hyden of Alabama Arise, and Oronde Miller of the Annie E. Casey Foundation. One commitment Kamilah carried forward captures the spirit of the experience: “I commit to showing up in every space I occupy with intention, purpose, and care. I commit to joy in struggle and freedom in the collective. I commit to righteous indignation on behalf of myself and others. I commit to being five feet of big, bold, audacious dopeness.” We’re bringing the Summit’s imagination, relationships, and call to collective action back to our work across the South. Thank you, @PolicyLink, for creating space to imagine, connect, and build toward what comes next. #Summit2026 #MDC #EconomicMobility #SouthernLeadership #CollectiveAction