National Urban League Declares 'State of Emergency' for U.S. Civil Rights

The National Urban League (NUL) has declared a "state of emergency" for civil rights in the United States, citing recent policy shifts under President Donald Trump's administration that, according to the organization, threaten decades of progress toward racial equality. This announcement was made during the NUL's annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio, where the 49th edition of its "State of Black America" report was unveiled.

The report, titled "State of Emergency: Democracy, Civil Rights, and Progress Under Attack," outlines several concerns, including the dismantling of civil rights protections, the promotion of a homogeneous societal model, and the erosion of voting rights. It criticizes the administration for downsizing federal agencies responsible for enforcing civil rights and reversing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in major corporations and institutions. Additionally, the report expresses apprehension over initiatives like Project 2025, coordinated by The Heritage Foundation, which outlines conservative governance strategies that the NUL believes promote a homogenous societal model.

Marc Morial, NUL President and CEO, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "This is not business as usual. This is an emergency. The National Urban League urges vigilance, mobilization, solidarity, and support."

Project 2025 is a conservative policy blueprint developed by The Heritage Foundation, aiming to enact extensive changes under President Trump's administration. The proposal includes overhauling or eliminating critical federal programs, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Head Start, and social safety nets like SNAP and Medicaid. It also suggests ending student debt relief programs and defunding the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Additionally, it controversially proposes banning pornography, challenging existing free speech precedents.

The NUL's declaration underscores the perceived urgency in addressing the rollback of civil rights protections and the promotion of policies that may disproportionately affect Black communities. The report serves as a call to action for civil rights organizations, policymakers, and the public to safeguard democratic principles and ensure equitable opportunities for all citizens.

In response to these developments, the NUL has initiated a broad campaign encompassing legal challenges, advocacy, and community organizing. This includes the launch of the Equitable Justice and Strategic Initiatives division, the establishment of the 21 Pillars for Public Safety framework, and coordination of the Fair Budget Coalition to advocate for a "just and inclusive FY2026 federal budget."

The National Urban League's 2025 report highlights significant concerns regarding the current state of civil rights in the United States. As the League calls for a "new resistance," the coming months may see increased advocacy and legal challenges aimed at preserving the progress made in civil rights over the past decades.