Congressional Black Caucus Calls for Corporate Responsibility Following Converse Advertising Campaign

Today, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement:

"As we all gathered for the 55th Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference-the nation's largest convening of Black leaders, activists, academics, and advocates-the Congressional Black Caucus was deeply disturbed and disappointed by Converse's decision to release this advertising campaign.

"With 62 Members of Congress gathered to celebrate Black excellence, honor the contributions of those who came before us, and invest in the next generation of Black leaders-including the young interns joining us-it was particularly disheartening to see an advertisement that many found deeply insensitive.

"This moment is part of a larger conversation about corporate responsibility and the obligations that companies have to the communities they serve, the consumers who support them, and the broader society in which they operate. Corporate leaders must understand that their decisions, messaging, and investments carry significance, particularly when they intersect with communities whose history, culture, and contributions have helped shape their success.

"The Congressional Black Caucus will be reaching out to Nike executives to request a meeting as soon as possible. We look forward to a candid conversation about this campaign, the concerns it has raised, and Nike's broader commitment to corporate responsibility, meaningful engagement with the Black community, and support for the next generation of Black leaders.

"We believe dialogue matters, and we hope this conversation can be an opportunity to listen, reflect, and reaffirm the importance of responsible corporate engagement."