WASHINGTON – The Black Economic Alliance (BEA), a nonpartisan group founded by Black executives and business leaders, today saluted the presidential candidates who are keeping Black economic priorities at the forefront of the 2020 campaign. Dr. Tony Coles, Co-Chair of the Black Economic Alliance, issued the following statement in response to the release of several policy proposals aimed at closing the income and wealth gap among Black Americans.

“Over the past several months, the Black Economic Alliance has been encouraged by the presidential candidates who have prioritized economic issues that are important to the Black community. In recent weeks, several candidates have released concrete solutions that could boost work, wages and wealth in the Black community. From proposals to dismantle institutionalized disparities in wages to commitments to invest in minority entrepreneurs, it is clear that the economic needs of Black Americans are front and center this election cycle.

“Our recent poll showed that Black voters are looking for bold action to address the challenges we face in realizing the American dream and we were thrilled to have top-tier candidates discuss their ideas at our presidential forum last month. We look forward to the continued debate about these important issues and seeing all of the 2020 candidates demonstrate their commitment to the Black community by speaking to a new approach to economic advancement that will improve work, wages, and wealth in the Black community. We urge the candidates to continue elevating this topic on the national stage during the upcoming presidential debates.”