On May 6, 2025, the Urban League of Greater Madison brought together changemakers from across Wisconsin for its 14th annual Summit on Workforce and Economic Development. Held at the Monona Terrace in downtown Madison, the summit was more than just another conference, it was a rallying point for anyone serious about building stronger, more inclusive communities. From city officials to CEOs, every voice in the room echoed the same message: it’s time to do the work, not just talk about it.
Stories that move people
Dr. Ruben Anthony, the Urban League’s CEO, set the tone by reminding attendees that real progress happens when people come together with purpose. One of the most powerful moments came from keynote speaker Diana Patton, who shared her journey from civil rights attorney to leadership coach.
She spoke about her grandmother, Luella Talmadge Jackson, a fierce advocate with the NAACP in Ohio. Patton’s story reminded everyone in the room that we all stand on someone’s shoulders, and now it’s our turn to lift others.
Facing the numbers, owning the change
Dr. Andre Perry didn’t hold back. His research shows that Black people in Madison are living about 2.4 years less than expected. That’s in a city known for good schools and solid public services.
The truth is, these numbers reflect real struggles, missed chances, unequal treatment, and systems that haven’t worked for everyone. But they also shine a light on where we can act.
At the summit, leaders talked about how to fix the gaps: better housing, stronger job opportunities, and real support for Black families. But it can’t just come from the top. Everyone has a part to play.
No more sideline support
Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway made it clear that local government won’t step back from DEI efforts, even when it’s unpopular. Angela Russell from TruStage added that businesses need to be just as bold. Her team is now working closely with legal and policy experts to make diversity part of the blueprint, not just a box to check.
What you can do right now
You don’t need a title to lead. Mentor someone. Push for fair hiring practices. Join a local board. The summit’s biggest takeaway? Everyone has a role in creating economic justice. Small actions, repeated often, create big waves. Start where you are, and don’t wait for perfect conditions, just get moving.
Key Takeaways
The Urban League of Greater Madison’s 2025 summit emphasized the importance of actionable steps towards workforce development, equity, and economic inclusion.
- Impact: The summit highlighted significant disparities in life expectancy and economic opportunities for Black people in Madison, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
- Action: Attendees were encouraged to take immediate steps such as mentoring, advocating for fair hiring practices, and joining local boards to drive economic justice.
- Empowerment: Leaders from various sectors committed to making diversity and inclusion a core part of their strategies, urging everyone to take ownership and lead from wherever they are.
