The Fannie Lou Hamer Government Relations Fellowship, launched by the Congressional Black Caucus Institute in 2022, aims to significantly improve diversity in the corporate government relations and lobbying sectors. This 8-week program features a well-rounded curriculum that combines educational elements from the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics with hands-on office placements offered by corporate partners through the 21st Century Council and other organizations.

 

The primary goal of the fellowship is to develop a diverse group of highly qualified students with the skills needed to influence public policy at various levels of government. This initiative addresses the persistent barriers that students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) face in pursuing influential positions in government relations.

 

Participants gain valuable real-world experience in government relations while also deepening their understanding of ethical lobbying practices. Through corporate partnerships, the fellowship provides opportunities for hands-on learning and networking, enhancing their educational experience and equipping them with the tools to effectively navigate and impact policy landscapes.

 

Furthermore, the fellowship aims to address the historical underrepresentation in the lobbying and government relations profession by actively recruiting and supporting diverse talent, thus broadening the demographic makeup of those who shape and advocate for public policy in corporate and governmental environments.

 

Overall, the Fannie Lou Hamer Government Relations Fellowship is a pivotal initiative designed to empower a diverse generation of future leaders in law and public policy. It seeks to close representation gaps while preparing participants to drive meaningful change in the field of government relations and public policy.