Blacks In Government Chicago Midwest Chapter

04/28/2026

Greetings Chapter Members

Are you a federal employee looking to stay competitive in today's evolving job market? BIG Region V presents an interactive workshop to guide you in crafting a concise, 2-page skills-based resume aligned with Executive Order 14170 and the Merit Hiring Plan. Learn how to showcase your strengths, translate your federal experience, and position yourself for new opportunities both within government and beyond (see the attached flyer for details).

The workshop will take place on Saturday, May 2 at 10:00 am ET (9:00 am CT). The cost to attend: $25.00.

This interactive workshop is open to anyone who wishes to attend. Share with your colleagues and friends. You do not have to be a member of BIG to attend.

Retirees: Please pass this information to your former colleagues.

***Registration is open until May 1 at 12:00pm ET

04/28/2026

TO: MEMBERS, CHAPTER AND REGIONAL COUNCIL PRESIDENTS
FROM: Honorable David A. Groves, National President

SUBJECT: 2026 Blacks In Government, Inc. Annual May Membership Month Drive

Dear BIG Members and Supporters,

Blacks In Government, Inc. (BIG) is pleased to announce its 2026 Annual May Membership Month Drive! Although BIG member recruitment, retention, and reclamation occur throughout the year, Membership Month is used to “kick” BIG member recruitment, retention, and reclamation activities at all levels of the organization into “overdrive”. Additionally, Membership Month increases the visibility of the BIG organization and its programs, benefits and impact.

While the BIG National Membership Committee coordinates and oversees the BIG Annual May Membership Month Drive, its success largely depends upon the involvement and creativity of each BIG member and the Region and Chapter Membership Chairs. Below are some simple things we can do together to make Membership Month a success:

BIG National Membership Committee: Provide promotions to existing and to-be BIG members to incentivize member recruitment, retention, and reclamation.

BIG Members: Recruit at least one (1) new individual or former BIG member to join/rejoin BIG during the month of May.

Region Council and Chapter Presidents & Membership Chairs: Attend the 2026 Membership Month Drive Kickoff and BIG Way Forward Discussion with National Executive Vice President, Rev. Dr. Danny Wade, on April 30th at 7:30 pm EDT.

Region and Chapter Membership Chairs: Attend the Membership Chair Strategy Discussion with the National Membership Committee on May 7th at 7:30 pm EDT.

Potential & Current BIG Members: Attend the Panel Discussion with BIG Leadership on the Importance of BIG and a BIG Membership on May 14th at 7:30 pm EDT.

Also, BIG members should use this occasion to update their membership profiles in BIG’s re: Members (formerly Impexium) system so it can be as accurate and complete as possible. This information is essential for the upcoming 2026 National Delegates Assembly (NDA), and it helps BIG leaders at all levels to better formulate and target programs/initiatives that support BIG members and their families. By going to the “Account Tab” on your profile in the system, you will be able to update name, contact information, and employment sector (Federal, State, or Local), and a host other useful information.

Also, Membership Month is a great time to renew memberships, update/correct chapter rosters, and obtain an accurate membership count more than 60 days prior to the 2026 NDA, which enhances the credentialing process.

We encourage every member, chapter, and region to actively participate in the Annual May Month Membership Drive. Together, we can greatly improve the implementation of BIG programs that are foundational to effectively serving BIG members and to achieving BIG’s vision “to be a member-focused, world-class enterprise recognized for excellence.”

04/16/2026

04/16/2026

Kamala Harris offered her clearest public indication yet that she may pursue another bid for the White House, telling attendees at the National Action Network convention that a decision is still under consideration.

Speaking on April 10 at the National Action Network convention, Harris responded to a direct question from Rev. Al Sharpton about a potential 2028 campaign.

Her remarks came before an audience that included prominent Black elected officials, activists, and influential Democratic figures, highlighting the group’s importance in shaping the party’s future nominee.

https://www.blackenterprise.com/kamala-harris-possible-2028-presidential-run/

04/16/2026

TO: Blacks In Government Members

FROM: Honorable David A. Groves, National President

Greetings BIG Members and Supporters,

Please see the information below concerning the Congressional Black Caucus Fellowship 2026 Fellowship Program Application Deadline.

Help Us Find the Next Class of Leaders

Applications for the 2026–2027 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Fellowship Program close on Friday, May 1, 2026. We’re calling on our community to share this opportunity with rising leaders in your network who are ready to make an impact.

Program Dates: August 24, 2026 – September 3, 2027

Reminder: Applicants must have already earned a graduate-level degree or will have completed one by the start of the program.

04/16/2026

TO: All Members

FROM: Honorable David A. Groves, National President

The FedChoice Charitable Foundation (FCF)
With

The National Organization of Blacks In Government, Inc. (BIG)
Collaborative Educational Scholarship Program

This scholarship was initiated by Ms. Sarah Fleming, a long-time member of FedChoice Federal Credit Union. The Guy Fleming Educational Scholarship celebrates the legacy of Mr. Guy Fleming and underscores the vital role of financial education for young individuals. Ms. Fleming passionately believes in the transformative power of education and aims to create more opportunities for deserving students from underserved communities. The FedChoice Charitable Foundation (FCF) is partnering with Blacks In Government (BIG) to promote this scholarship program nationwide.

Program Highlights:

Ten $1,000 Educational Scholarships: In its third year, we are proud to offer ten scholarships to college-bound or trade school-bound high school seniors.

Eligibility: Any college-bound or trade school-bound high school senior from a Title 1 School nationwide can apply.

Winners Announcement: Scholarship recipients will be announced in early August 2026

Winner’s Expectations: All winners will be requested to provide a photo and short Bio for advertising.

Student Scholarship Applicant Criteria:

Applicants must:

Be a graduating high school senior.
Plan to attend a post-secondary institution (university, college, or trade school) in the fall of 2026 and provide an acceptance letter.
Include a recommendation letter from their school counselor and/or teacher.

Application Process:

To apply, students must write a concise up to 500-word essay (topics to be announced soon).

Note on AI Usage: Limited use of AI (less than 15%) is permitted for initial idea generation only. All analysis, personal reflections, and final composition must be entirely your own work.

Applicants Must:

Be a graduating high school senior.
Plan to attend a post-secondary institution (university, college, or trade school) in the fall of 2026 and provide an acceptance letter.
Include a recommendation letter from their school counselor and/or teacher.

Application Process:

To apply, students must:

Write a concise up to 500-word essay on one of the following topics:

Essay Theme:

“Building the Next 250 Years: How Financial Literacy Empowers Future Leaders”

As we look ahead to the next 250 years, financial literacy remains a powerful tool that shapes strong, equitable communities and prepares future leaders for informed decision-making. Organizations like Blacks in Government (BIG) and FedChoice Federal Credit Union, through its FedChoice Charitable Foundation, demonstrate how financial education and advocacy can transform lives. Together, these organizations illustrate how financial literacy builds confidence, opportunity, and leadership—empowering today’s students to help shape a stronger, more financially resilient America over the next 250 years.
Students should include the following:

Explain why financial literacy is important for the future — personally, professionally, and for society.

Describe how financially educated leaders can shape the next 250 years, helping build stronger, more resilient communities.

Explain how Blacks in Government (BIG) supports equity and professional development for Black government employees, and how FedChoice Federal Credit Union and the FedChoice Charitable Foundation advance financial empowerment through community financial literacy programs and scholarships.

Submit application and essay online Submit Application (www.fedchoicegives.org/GF-BIGscholarship) by 11:59pm Central Standard Time, Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

Note on AI Usage: Limited use of AI (less than 15%) is permitted for initial idea generation only. All analysis, personal reflections, and final composition must be entirely your own work.

04/16/2026

TO: MEMBERS, CHAPTER AND REGIONAL COUNCIL PRESIDENTS

FROM: Honorable David A. Groves, National President

SUBJECT: 2026 Blacks In Government, Inc. Annual May Membership Month Drive

Dear BIG Members and Supporters,

Blacks In Government, Inc. (BIG) is pleased to announce its 2026 Annual May Membership Month Drive! Although BIG member recruitment, retention, and reclamation occur throughout the year, Membership Month is used to “kick” BIG member recruitment, retention, and reclamation activities at all levels of the organization into “overdrive”. Additionally, Membership Month increases the visibility of the BIG organization and its programs, benefits and impact.

While the BIG National Membership Committee coordinates and oversees the BIG Annual May Membership Month Drive, its success largely depends upon the involvement and creativity of each BIG member and the Region and Chapter Membership Chairs. Below are some simple things we can do together to make Membership Month a success:

BIG National Membership Committee: Provide promotions to existing and to-be BIG members to incentivize member recruitment, retention, and reclamation.

BIG Members: Recruit at least one (1) new individual or former BIG member to join/rejoin BIG during the month of May.

Region Council and Chapter Presidents & Membership Chairs: Attend the 2026 Membership Month Drive Kickoff and BIG Way Forward Discussion with National Executive Vice President, Rev. Dr. Danny Wade, on April 30th at 7:30 pm EDT.

Region and Chapter Membership Chairs: Attend the Membership Chair Strategy Discussion with the National Membership Committee on May 7th at 7:30 pm EDT.

Potential & Current BIG Members: Attend the Panel Discussion with BIG Leadership on the Importance of BIG and a BIG Membership on May 14th at 7:30 pm EDT.

BIG Members: Complete and submit the 2026 BIG Member Satisfaction Survey during the final week of May.

Also, BIG members should use this occasion to update their membership profiles in BIG’s re: Members (formerly Impexium) system so it can be as accurate and complete as possible. This information is essential for the upcoming 2026 National Delegates Assembly (NDA), and it helps BIG leaders at all levels to better formulate and target programs/initiatives that support BIG members and their families. By going to the “Account Tab” on your profile in the system, you will be able to update name, contact information, and employment sector (Federal, State, or Local), and a host other useful information.

Also, Membership Month is a great time to renew memberships, update/correct chapter rosters, and obtain an accurate membership count more than 60 days prior to the 2026 NDA, which enhances the credentialing process.

We encourage every member, chapter, and region to actively participate in the Annual May Month Membership Drive. Together, we can greatly improve the implementation of BIG programs that are foundational to effectively serving BIG members and to achieving BIG’s vision “to be a member-focused, world-class enterprise recognized for excellence.”

03/01/2026

The Chicago Midwest Chapter is Celebrating Women’s History Month by honoring the strength, brilliance, and legacy of Black women.

Your voices, your leadership, your creativity, and your resilience continue to shape history. Thank you for everything you’ve given—and everything you continue to inspire.

02/24/2026

Black America is under attack.

In Donald Trump’s second term, his policies are dismantling protections, freedoms, and opportunities for our communities. And let us be clear: cruelty isn’t a side effect; it’s the whole point.

But the spirit of Black America? Unbreakable.

Read more and join the fight: https://naacp.org/articles/state-black-union

02/24/2026

We’re building this year’s Conference with YOU in mind. Drop the topic you want to see most in the comments.

📍Nashville
🗓️July 29 — August 1

02/03/2026

TO: All Blacks In Government Members and Supporters

FROM: Honorable David A. Groves, National President

Greetings Blacks In Government Members and Supporters,

I am pleased to share an important and historic announcement as we look ahead to Black History Month 2026.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has officially announced the national theme for Black History Month 2026: “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” Beginning February 1, 2026, ASALH will lead the nation in marking 100 years since the launch of Negro History Week in 1926—founded, created, and envisioned by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black history.

This milestone reminds us that Black history is not a sidebar to American history, but a central and defining force. As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, this centennial calls on all of us—community leaders, public servants, educators, and advocates—to reflect on a century of scholarship, preservation, and public engagement that has safeguarded our history from erasure and distortion.

For Blacks In Government, this commemoration holds special meaning. Since our founding, BIG has stood at the intersection of history and public service—advocating for equity, leadership development, and opportunity for Black public servants while preserving our collective voice within government. Like Dr. Woodson, our organization, was built on the belief that knowing our history strengthens our ability to shape the future and serve with purpose and integrity.

As members of Blacks In Government, this moment aligns deeply with our mission. Dr. Woodson’s legacy speaks to truth, excellence, accountability, and service—values that continue to guide our work in public service and leadership today.

Please be on the lookout for announcements and invitations to our weekly Black History Month Focus, which will be thoughtfully planned and hosted by our very own Program and Planning Committee. These sessions will highlight the significance of this historic centennial year while educating, inspiring, and engaging our members throughout the month.

I encourage each of you to engage fully in this historic commemoration and to help amplify the importance of Black history—not just in February, but every day.

Thank you for your continued dedication to BIG and to the communities we serve.