The U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce Announces Six Recipients of the “2026 Legislative Champions of Minority Business Awards.”
“The U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce Announces Six Recipients of the “2026 Legislative Champions of Minority Business Awards.”
For Immediate Release:
March 14, 2026
Contact: Shawn Cunningham
COO/National Director, U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce
“The U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce Announces Six Recipients of the “2026 Legislative Champions of Minority Business Awards.”
(Washington, DC)-The U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce (USMCC)is getting ready to Descend on DC. We’re excited to announce our annual Washington DC Descend on The Hill, taking place the week of April 17th, 2026. This high-level advocacy mission brings together minority business leaders, stakeholders, and policymakers to discuss the critical economic issues facing our nation’s diverse entrepreneurial community.
A highlight of this year’s visit will be the presentation of six Legislative Champions of Minority Business Awards. During this prestigious ceremony, the USMCC will recognize six distinguished congressional lawmakers for their exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing policies that foster growth, equity, and access to capital for minority-owned enterprises and underserved communities.
They are:
Representative Nikema Williams (D) Georgia
Representative Juan Ciscomani (R) Arizona
Representative Judy Chu (D) California
Representative Adriano Espaillat (D) New York
Representative Mike Flood (R) Nebraska
Sen. Ron Wyden (D) Oregon
“Our Legislative Champions are those who move beyond rhetoric to deliver tangible results for our members,” said Doug Mayorga, President/CEO of the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce. “As we navigate a complex economic landscape, the advocacy of these six individuals ensures that minority businesses remain at the forefront of the American economy.”
“This mission serves as a critical platform for our members to engage directly with policymakers on the issues most impactful to the minority business community. These lawmakers have been selected for their steadfast commitment to promoting equitable economic growth, expanding access to capital, and championing policies that empower minority-owned enterprises across the nation. The week of April 17th represents a vital opportunity for our members to engage directly with leadership in the Capitol,” says Shawn Cunningham, COO/National Director, of the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce.
The week-long engagement will include:
- Private Briefings: In-depth discussions on trade, infrastructure, and technology access.
- The Awards Presentation: Honoring the six selected lawmakers for their legislative excellence.
- Advocacy Sessions: Direct dialogue between USMCC members and key committee leaders.
We invite members of the press, community partners, and business leaders to join us as we celebrate these champions and work toward a more inclusive economic future.
For more information regarding the schedule of events or to request an interview, please contact:
Shawn Cunningham, COO/National Director [email protected]