Building Inclusive Economies Where Policy and Money Meet: Virginia Senator Jennifer McClellan.

Season 2, Episode 5
In this episode, Senator Jennifer McClellan shares her experience navigating the intersection of government and economy in Virginia and beyond.  While an influx of capital presents a momentous opportunity for local communities, the public sector must play a role in building sustainable, inclusive economies.  The co-hosts ask the big questions of Senator McClellan:  With interest in “investing for good” on the rise, how can government policy play a role? How can our elected representatives help make this happen?

About Senator Jennifer McClellan.
Growing up as the child of community leaders and educators, Jenn McClellan has always felt a calling to public service to strengthen her community and ensure that every Virginian has an opportunity to succeed. She brought those values, passion and commitment to justice to the Virginia legislature, representing the greater Richmond area. She served in the House of Delegates from 2006-2017 and has served in the Senate since 2017. Jenn has earned a reputation as an effective, constituent services-oriented legislator.  She’s been a driving force for progressive change in Virginia, leading the passage of landmark laws to invest in education, grow small business, expand health care access, ban discrimination, safeguard workers’ rights, civil rights, and voting rights, reform the criminal justice system, protect a woman’s right to choose, and tackle climate change. As Chair of the Virginia Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Commission, Jenn promotes Dr. King’s legacy and continues his work, particularly racial healing, economic and social justice, and community engagement. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, leading legislative efforts for civil rights and equity.  As the first House member to be pregnant while in office, she has been a fierce protector of women’s reproductive rights, children, and families. 

Renegade Capital Tools & Tips.
A renegade not only listens but acts. We've consolidated a few tips from this episode to help you take action where policy and money meet. 

• Stay Informed: Whether at the local, state, or national level, stay informed on policies that address economic inequality. Find your representatives or grassroots advocacy groups and ask what issues they are working on that you might want to support. 
• Get Out the Vote: Policy change is critical for ensuring sustainable change, so use your voice to vote. You can also mobilize others in your community around important elections and ballot measures. 
• Learn and Share: Senator Jennifer McClellan points out that we need to change not only economic and government systems, but also narratives around economic inequality in the US. Seek out resources that teach how historical policy decisions impact our systems today, and what reforms could result in long-term change. Then share what you learn with your colleagues, friends, and community. 
  • Renegade Capital Resources: Historical Timeline; Reading List

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Thank you to this season's sponsors Lenderfit and Community Capital Management. 

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