Links Host Symposium:

In alignment with its mission and vision to enrich communities and improve the quality of life for people of African descent through friendship and service, the Bergen County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated hosted a powerful symposium titled “Moving Forward: The Impact of the National Climate on the Black Community.”

Collaborative Leadership and Partnership

The symposium was presented through a strategic partnership with a distinguished coalition of community-centered organizations. Led by the Chapter’s National Trends and Services Committee, the collaborative effort included:

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
• The National Coalition of 100 Black Women – Bergen/Passaic Chapter
• The Bergen Black Caucus
• Bergen County NAACP
• The National Council of Negro Women – Bergen Section
• Greater Bergen County Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women

Together, these organizations demonstrated the strength of collective action in addressing issues impacting the Black community.

Community Engagement and Attendance

More than 300 community members gathered at the Logan Family Life Center of Mount Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack, underscoring the urgency and relevance of the symposium’s focus. Attendees were fully engaged in thoughtful dialogue centered on policy, equity, and advocacy.

Distinguished Panel of Experts

The symposium featured an exceptional panel of leaders and subject-matter experts:

• Reverend Dr. Charles Boyer
• Dr. Janice Johnson Dias
• Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton
• Immigration Attorney Carmelia Tayler

The discussion was skillfully moderated by Symposium Chair Pamela T. Miller, Esq., whose guidance ensured a focused, informative, and purposeful exchange.

Key Issues Addressed

Through candid and dynamic discussion, panelists explored a wide range of pressing topics, including:

• Social justice and systemic racism
• The militarization of urban communities
• Health equity, Medicare, and Medicaid
• Educational disparities
• The implications of the “Big Beautiful Bill”
• Voter suppression
• Sanctuary cities and states
• Immigration policy and ICE enforcement

Panelists examined how these interconnected issues collectively impact Black individuals, families, and communities across the nation.

Impact and Audience Response

The dialogue energized attendees and sparked meaningful reflection. Audience members praised the clear, accessible, and solutions-focused presentation of complex policy issues, emphasizing the importance of staying informed during a rapidly shifting national landscape.

Looking Ahead

Many participants expressed strong interest in future sessions to continue monitoring policy developments and identifying resources that empower and protect the Black community. The symposium reinforced the Bergen County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated’s commitment to education, advocacy, and service during this pivotal moment.