Legal Impact Network Sets Vision for Collaborative Advocacy

States are on the frontlines of systems change for racial and economic justice. State and local governments make critical decisions regarding federal programs that determine access to, or denial of, housing, health care, and vital public benefits.

Important policy decisions on issues like criminal justice, domestic violence, and public education are driven by state and local decision-makers, often with limited federal input. And, on economic justice issues — like the minimum wage, paid leave, and fair scheduling — advocates have had significant success at the state and local levels.

The Shriver Center on Poverty Law supports state-level advocacy through its Legal Impact Network, a dynamic collaborative of state-based advocacy organizations from across the country. Using innovative, coordinated strategies, Legal Impact Network members are combatting poverty and advancing racial justice in 34 states and the District of Columbia.

On April 24-25, 2023, more than 50 staff members from 28 Legal Impact Network member organizations met at the offices of McDermott Will & Emery in Chicago to discuss future direction for the group. Attendees discussed the network’s purpose and role, and guiding principles for network-related work. They also set forth strategic priorities to tackle over the next few years. View additional photos from the convening.

The Legal Impact Network convening was an important opportunity to bring our partners together, learn from one other, coordinate efforts, and celebrate wins together. The Shriver Center looks forward to continuing to work across state lines with network members to create collective, bold, and meaningful systems change. Learn more about the Legal Impact Network.