Janet Murguía
President and CEO, UnidosUS
Janet Murguía is a leading civil rights activist and the president of UnidosUS, formerly the National Council of La Raza (NCLR). Since taking the helm of UnidosUS in 2005, she has been a powerful advocate for Latino communities, frequently testifying before Congress on issues such as education, healthcare, immigration reform, civil rights, and the economy. As a spokesperson for the organization, she has been a regular presence in the media, engaging with news outlets and discussing the pressing issues facing Latinos in the United States.
Before her tenure at UnidosUS, Murguía held several prominent positions. She served as Executive Vice Chancellor for University Relations at the University of Kansas, where she led strategic planning and marketing efforts. Murguía also played a key role in Al Gore’s 2000 presidential campaign as deputy campaign manager and liaison to national constituency groups. In the White House under President Bill Clinton, she served as deputy assistant to the president and deputy director of legislative affairs, where she provided strategic and legislative advice. Murguía’s career has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of USA Today's Women of the Year in 2022 for her exceptional contributions to civil rights and advocacy. She also serves on several influential boards, including the Independent Sector, the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, and the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility.
Panel Information
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
3:30 PM EST
Economic Powerhouses: Minority Entrepreneurship, Consumerism, and Resilience
This session will explore the effects of economic instability and shifting market dynamics on minority communities in the U.S., while highlighting the growing importance of economic resilience. Minority entrepreneurship and consumerism are vital drivers of the workforce economy, creating opportunities for innovation and growth in local communities. However, as industries evolve, minority workers in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing may face new opportunities alongside significant challenges. Panelists will discuss the complexities these communities encounter, including job displacement, the role of entrepreneurship in economic recovery, and the power of minority consumerism in shaping market trends. The session will also address corporate responsibilities, particularly the rollback of programs targeting minority recruitment and inclusion, and emphasize strategies to strengthen economic resilience to ensure minority workers and businesses thrive in an ever-changing economic landscape.
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