About us
The Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, Inc. (LBCM) is an organization of fifty legislators who dedicate themselves to the mission of ensuring that Black people in the great state of Maryland were equally protected and benefited by the promises of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, as afforded by the United States Constitution.
Our Mission
The mission of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, Inc. (LBCM) is to serve as a unified public voice for the advancement of African Americans views, issues, and concerns by developing a pipeline of legislative leaders, influencing progressive policy, and educating underserved communities.
Shared Vision
The caucus envisions a Maryland where African Americans have an equal voice in informing policies, cultivating leaders, advancing civic engagement, and accessing economic opportunities
To ensure the implementation of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland’s Mission and Vision Statements, the overall goals are:
- To outline a strategic plan which will entail how the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland will play a role in the strengthening of Black Americans.
- Achieve greater Employment Equity and Economic Development opportunities for Black persons.
- Critically evaluate our Educational Systems at elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels.
- Focus on Creating and Investing in greater Housing Opportunities for our Homeless families.
- Assure quality Health Care for every Black American.
- Ensure Criminal Justice for all in Sentencing and Reform Measures.
- Invest in meaningful partnerships that will aid our students in the critical areas of Reading and Financial Literacy
Executive Leadership
Delegate Darryl Barnes, Chair
Delegate Melissa Wells, 1st Vice-Chair
Delegate Gabriel Acevero, 2nd Vice-Chair
Delegate Charlotte Crutchfield, Secretary
Delegate Ron Watson, Treasurer
Delegate Mike Rogers, Financial Secretary
Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins, Parliamentarian
Delegate Talmadge Branch, Historian
Senator Joanne Benson, Chaplain
(Terms expire 2022)