Dear AISJ Family, Over the past few weeks, AISJ has been working with Greg Kaufmann , Journalist in Residence at the Roosevelt Institute and a contributing writer for  The Nation , to explore a Black Belt Commission, which would focus on addressing the growing infrastructure issues facing Alabama's Black Belt counties. Similar to the Appalachian Regional Commission, a United States federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life, a Black Belt Commission would provide much-needed investments specific to Black Belt counties. AISJ wishes to thank Greg Kaufmann for his efforts and commitment to bringing attention to the rich history, yet modern-day plight of important Alabama communities that are often forgotten. Please check out his article: Appalachia Gets Special Funding. The Black Rural South Deserves It Too. Sincerely, Lenice C. Emanuel, MLA Executive Director

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