February 20 – 21, 2024 | Hotel NoMa, New Rochelle, NY

In an era where clean energy is not just an option but a necessity, the National Clean Energy Local Content Summit 2024 stands as a beacon of innovation and social equity. Scheduled for February 20th and 21st, 2024, at the Hotel NoMa in New Rochelle, NY, this summit is more than just a conference; it’s a movement. It’s where the paths of environmental justice, economic development, and clean energy intersect, creating a platform for meaningful change.

A Summit with a Purpose

This unique summit is the only one of its kind, led and curated by social equity populations who bring both lived experiences and industry expertise to the table. It’s a gathering that supports all levels of clean energy stakeholders, from policymakers to community advocates, in exceeding federal, state, and local climate change and local policies. The theme “Engineering Equity For All™” encapsulates the summit’s commitment to ensuring a just and equitable transition to clean energy.

Day 1 Highlights: Bridging Gaps and Inspiring Youth

Local Content FAM Tour: Environmental Justice

The first day kicks off with an immersive bus tour through New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, and Yonkers. This tour is not just a journey through cities but a deep dive into the historical barriers and strides in clean energy within environmental justice communities. It’s an opportunity for industry professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders to see firsthand the impact of clean energy initiatives.

Clean Energy Youth Winter Break Clinic

In parallel, the summit hosts a Winter Break Clinic for grades 3 to 9, focusing on inspiring the next generation. Through activities like Sports Power Clean Energy and Arts Power Clean Energy, the summit aims to prepare youth for future clean energy careers and entrepreneurship.

Virtual Supplier Forum + Job Fair

Day 1 also features a Virtual Supplier Forum and Job Fair, a testament to the summit’s commitment to exceeding supply chain and workforce local content deliverables. This virtual event is a crucial platform for employment candidates and small/diverse businesses.

Day 2: Learning from the Experts

The second day of the summit is a deep dive into the world of clean energy. It’s a day to learn, lead, and succeed with insights from a panel of subject matter experts from across the country. The discussions and presentations will cover a range of topics, from climate change laws to stakeholder engagement, all under the umbrella of clean energy and social equity.

Why Attend?

The National Clean Energy Local Content Summit 2024 is more than just a conference; it’s a nexus of ideas, a place where change is not just discussed but initiated. It’s an opportunity for:

Networking: Connect with industry leaders, experts, and advocates.

Education: Gain exclusive insights into the clean energy industry.

Empowerment: Learn how to navigate and influence climate change policies.

Inspiration: See how clean energy is reshaping communities.

Join the Movement

As we move towards a future where clean energy is integral to our lives, the National Clean Energy Local Content Summit 2024 invites you to be a part of this transformative journey. Whether you’re an industry professional, a policymaker, or a community advocate, this summit is where you can contribute to and learn about engineering a sustainable and equitable future.

For tickets, sponsorships, and more information, stay tuned as more details are unveiled. Together, let’s engineer equity for all in the clean energy transition.

Long Island, a historically significant region, is on the cusp of change. On November 16, the spotlight will shine on the “State of Long Island” event, an occasion set to illuminate the challenges and opportunities shaping the island’s trajectory for the coming years. At the heart of this event is Sam Law, a dedicated advocate deeply committed to the community and its future.

Sam Law’s journey to becoming a leading voice for Long Island’s progress is remarkable. Her passion for the island and her unwavering dedication to its residents have made her a driving force for positive change. As we prepare to delve into the insights she shared during the upcoming “State of Long Island” event, it’s essential to recognize the significance of her perspective and the importance of this occasion.

Unpacking Long Island’s Racial Dynamics: A Complex History and Hope for Change

The discussion about Long Island’s racial dynamics during the “State of Long Island” event, led by Sam Law, highlighted the multifaceted nature of the island’s history and the ongoing challenges faced by people of color, particularly concerning labor unions.

Historical Segregation: Long Island has a deep-seated history of segregation, with implications that persist to this day. Segregation in housing, education, and employment has contributed to enduring disparities in wealth and opportunity among different racial groups on the island.

Inter-generational Wealth Disparities: As a consequence of historical segregation, certain families on Long Island have inherited significant financial advantages, while others have been systematically disadvantaged. This wealth gap perpetuates inequalities in education, employment, and access to resources, further entrenching racial divides.

Challenges within Labor Unions: The discussion specifically addressed the challenges faced by people of color within labor unions. Historically, unions have played a crucial role in advocating for workers’ rights, but they have also been criticized for perpetuating exclusionary practices that marginalize minority workers. This perpetuation of inequality within the labor movement reflects broader societal issues of racial discrimination and inequity.

Hope for Change: Despite the entrenched nature of these challenges, there is optimism for change. By acknowledging and confronting Long Island’s complex racial history, there is an opportunity to address systemic injustices and work towards a more equitable future. Initiatives focused on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within labor unions and across society at large can contribute to dismantling barriers and fostering greater racial equality on Long Island.

The discussion underscored the importance of recognizing and addressing Long Island’s historical legacy of segregation and the ongoing challenges faced by people of color, particularly within labor unions. By confronting these issues head-on and advocating for meaningful change, there is hope for a more just and inclusive future for all residents of Long Island.

Inherited Privilege and Industry

The concept of inherited privilege and its influence on career paths is particularly pronounced on Long Island, where historical policies and practices have provided non-minority families with a significant head start in wealth accumulation.

Career Path Determinants: In many cases, the financial advantage gained by non-minority families has a direct impact on the career paths chosen by subsequent generations. For example, if a family has a history of members working in professions like law enforcement, construction, or labor unions, it’s more likely that their children will follow suit due to existing networks, resources, and opportunities.

Challenges for People of Color: Despite Long Island’s reputation for having a highly skilled labor force, breaking into certain industries, especially for people of color, can be exceedingly challenging. The entrenched nature of certain mindsets and prevailing biases can act as barriers, effectively excluding individuals who don’t conform to established norms regarding race, background, or pedigree.

Entrenched Mindsets: Sam Law’s emphasis on entrenched mindsets highlights the systemic nature of the challenges faced by people of color in accessing certain industries. Preconceived notions about who belongs in certain professions or industries can perpetuate exclusionary practices, limiting opportunities for those who don’t fit the mold.

Need for Diversity and Inclusion: Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to dismantle entrenched mindsets and promote diversity and inclusion within industries on Long Island. By actively challenging biases and creating more equitable pathways to opportunity, it becomes possible to break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds can thrive.

Overall, the discussion underscores the need to confront the impact of inherited privilege on career paths and to address the systemic barriers that hinder opportunities for people of color on Long Island. By acknowledging these challenges and working towards greater diversity and inclusion, it becomes possible to create a more equitable future for all residents.

Challenges Faced by Minority Laborers

For people of color who manage to enter these labor unions, their experiences can be marred by unequal treatment and an uncomfortable work environment. This differential treatment can drive them away, making them seek employment opportunities elsewhere.

“We have to be able to make people feel valued, respected, and loved when they get in these doors,” said Sam Law. Her insight underscores the need to confront this issue head-on, acknowledging that a problem must first be recognized before it can be addressed.

Notably, Long Island has made significant strides in addressing these challenges. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Sam Law herself has been at the forefront of these efforts, advocating for policies and initiatives that promote fairness and equity.

While acknowledging that there is still work to be done, Sam Law is encouraged by the positive changes she has witnessed. “Long Island is beginning to recognize that diversity is not just a buzzword; it’s a strength,” she remarked. “We’re seeing more open dialogues, more training programs to combat bias, and a genuine commitment to creating workplaces where everyone feels valued.”

This progress signifies a promising shift toward greater inclusivity and equality on Long Island. While challenges persist, the concerted efforts of advocates like Sam Law, coupled with a growing recognition of the benefits of a diverse workforce, are driving positive change within labor unions and various industries across the island.

Sustainable Housing and Cost-of-Living: Cornerstones of Long Island’s Future

While the “State of Long Island” event offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s challenges and opportunities, it’s crucial to delve deeper into one of the most pressing concerns: sustainable housing and the cost of living on Long Island.

Long Island has long been notorious for its high cost of living. With some of the highest property taxes in the nation, residents often grapple with financial burdens that can strain their budgets. Young adults, in particular, may find it increasingly difficult to establish themselves on the island due to these economic pressures.

“Long Island is in a weird place where it is pushing out its young population,” Sam Law remarked. “There’s a lack of industry when it comes to business and job opportunities. There’s a lack of housing, when we need available housing, and especially affordable available housing.” Her concerns underscore the urgency of addressing these issues to retain the island’s youth.

Energy-Efficient and Affordable Housing Solutions

The need for sustainable housing solutions is paramount. Long Island should prioritize the development of affordable, energy-efficient homes that not only ease the financial burden on residents but also contribute to a more environmentally responsible future. As Sam Law passionately emphasized, “Long Island is at a crossroads. We need housing solutions that not only accommodate our residents but also align with our responsibility to the environment.”

Sam Law believes that Long Island can lead the way in sustainable living. “We have the potential to showcase innovative designs that incorporate renewable energy sources,” she said. “These initiatives not only lower utility bills but also reduce the carbon footprint of Long Island’s communities.” Sam Law’s vision extends beyond merely addressing affordability; it encompasses a commitment to both economic and environmental sustainability, essential components for Long Island’s long-term success.

By integrating renewable energy technologies and energy-efficient designs into housing developments, Long Island can create homes that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective for residents. Sam Law’s advocacy underscores the urgency of embracing these solutions to secure a brighter and more sustainable future for the island.

Breaking Down Barriers to Affordable Housing

Addressing the cost-of-living issue also involves breaking down barriers to affordable housing. This encompasses not only new housing developments but also the availability of reasonable mortgages and support for renters. Policymakers need to explore innovative financing options and partnerships with the private sector to make affordable housing more accessible.

The “State of Long Island” event serves as a pivotal platform for discussing these vital matters. Sam Law and fellow community advocates can champion the cause for affordable housing and sustainable living during this event. By engaging in candid conversations and collaborative problem-solving, the event can set the stage for actionable solutions.

The Future of Long Island

As we envision Long Island’s future, it must include a landscape where young adults can afford to settle down, contribute to the community, and build their lives. The cost of living should not be a barrier to experiencing the beauty and opportunities that Long Island offers.

In summary, sustainable housing and the cost of living are undeniably intertwined and represent critical issues on Long Island’s journey forward. By prioritizing affordability and sustainability, Long Island can ensure that its future remains vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous for all its residents.

In conclusion, the upcoming “State of Long Island” event promises to be a dynamic exchange of ideas and solutions. Sam Law, as a prominent figure in the community, and other passionate advocates are likely to drive discussions about Long Island’s future in the next decade. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to positive change, Long Island can look forward to a future that is vibrant, inclusive, and filled with opportunities for all its residents.

Messiah Swinson is a kind-hearted soul who loves his mother and has a passion for exploring the world, traveling to its many wonderful places. The 6’8, 265 lb Tight End began his collegiate career playing in the SEC for the Missouri Tigers. He eats, sleeps, and breathes football, but the Senior Tight End has learned there’s more to life than football.

Sec Challenge

Coming into college undersized and one-dimensional, Messiah Swinson didn’t stand much of a chance in the SEC. However, his time in Missouri proved to be transformative, turning him into a multi-faceted and capable Tight End ready to showcase his full game at Arizona State University. Playing most of his snaps with his hand in the ground highlighted his initial flaw as a tight end coming out of High School.

Messiah, who played small high school football in New York, wasn’t prepared to block future first-round draft picks. He said, “Honestly, it was night and day my first two years in college. I wasn’t ready for that pace and physicality; it was a shock.” It would take time and growing pains for Swinson to adjust, but he eventually turned his finesse game into a physical.

Turning Weakness into Strength

Swinson has transformed himself into one of the best inline tight ends in the country, taking his physical style of play to Arizona State last year. He set the tone on the offensive line, something he never thought he’d be doing. “To be honest, to go from a receiving tight end to more of an all-around physical-style inline tight end shocked no one more than me,” says Messiah.

When recruited by coach Barry Odom out of High School, Messiah never thought he’d have to prove to NFL scouts that he’s a dynamic pass-catching threat saying, “I take pride in my ability to run block and protect the Quarterback, but I have the ability to put defenders through hell in the pass game as well. I look forward to getting that opportunity this year.”

Best Tight End Tandem In the Country

Arizona State had a tumultuous year last year with the untimely firing of head coach Herman Edwards and two NCAA violations. Arizona State University football was at a crossroads, leading to the hiring of coach Kenny Dillingham, a young innovative, disciplined head coach to lead the Sun Devils to greener pastures. Dillingham, known for use of tight ends, has two studs to start his ASU tenure off with, Messiah Swinson and Jalin Conyers, who form one of the nation’s top tight end duos.

The highly underrated tight end Messiah has found peace with where he is. Swinson, who went to Long Island Lutheran to play basketball and football, found most of his success on the football field while providing veteran leadership on the basketball court. Swinson dominated the field, albeit lesser talent.

Lessons of the SEC

“When I chose to play in the SEC, everyone thought I was crazy. I was a string bean, but I had to learn the game and prove to myself I could play at the highest level.” After starting his career with a torn ACL, Swinson, by his 3rd year, would find his place on the field. “I had to learn the game. The SEC didn’t just teach me football; it taught me life. I take that tough, hard-nosed mindset everywhere now. Not only on the field but off it.”

The Pressure of Corey “Armel” Swinson

Swinson, whose last name bears the burden of generations of Long Island greatness, has had to navigate through pressure his whole life. Under the strict microscope of his father, Corey “Armel” Swinson, Messiah felt the pressure of living up to his name and his father’s larger-than-life expectations. A massive figure standing tall and talented at 6’6, 300 plus pounds, who played his Colligate ball at Hampton University and ultimately took his talents to the NFL for a stint. A man with hands the size of two catchers’ gloves and arms and forearms the size of pickup trucks. “My dad was my hero; other than my mom, he was everything to me. I know he would be proud of me,” Messiah says, laughing. “He wouldn’t be happy I was playing football though,” Messiah added.

Corey, who suffered many injuries playing football, didn’t want the same for his son. He went as far as tossing the footballs out of the yard when he saw his son playing with it during basketball season. Messiah would add, “He really didn’t want me playing football, he just knew my friends played and didn’t want to keep me away from positive environments.”

Messiah Swinson VS Messiah Swinson

When asked about pressure, Messiah answered, “There is no one that can put more pressure on me than me. It’s me vs me. I know what I’m capable of, and there’s a certain standard I set for myself. Other than my older brother, I’m my biggest critic. I know what I expect from myself.”

Messiah’s father expected a lot from him from the moment he entered this world. Bestowing upon him the name Messiah would further cement his father’s expectations upon him before Messiah could lift his head, let alone crawl.

In Messiah’s hometown of Bay Shore, NY, his father’s name decorates the bridge under which he drives when he visits his mother. At the age of 13, he received a text from his father saying, ‘I’ll be there to pick him up after practice,’ That would be the last text he would receive from his Superman.

Messiah would leave practice to a parking lot void of his dad’s car. Unbothered, knowing his father worked a busy schedule and was sometimes late to pick him up, Messiah would call his dad. Usually, the ex-NFL defensive lineman would answer from his post as the head of security for the Copiague School District, though this time Messiah’s call attempts went unanswered.

The Ghost of Corey “Armel” Swinson

Thinking his father got stuck in a meeting, he would call his older cousin for a ride home, only to be met by tragedy when he arrived home. Corey “Armel” Swinson’s larger-than-life, normally energetic frame lay lifeless in the middle of the kitchen floor.

“My life changed; I never looked at my dad as human. He was a superhero to me and everyone around him. He was the biggest, baddest, funniest, most kind-hearted person you’ll ever meet, and he was gone.”

From this moment on, the pressure no longer came from his father; it came from everyone around who saw him as the next Corey Swinson. Leading Messiah to make the biggest and most important decision of his life at the time. “I had to leave Bay Shore to create my own identity. I wasn’t going to live in the shadows of anyone. I had to make my path,” says Messiah confidently.

Messiah, whose father worked in the Bay Shore school district for years, has his memory entrenched within the fabric and soul of the High School. It was time for Corey’s son to be his own man. To many people’s displeasure, Messiah left, making a decision that would change his life.

Creating His Own Path

“LuHi made me meet the standard I set for myself. When my father passed, I had to prove to myself that I can be my own person and walk in my shoes, placing my expectations upon myself,” Messiah says while sitting in front of his father’s old jerseys.

Sorting through them, looking at them with the amazement of a child, old film of his dad wrecking offensive linemen in his Hampton days plays in the background. You can see the admiration for his father in Messiah’s eyes.

In a moment of reflection, Messiah admits, “My only wish is that he could’ve gone through this process with me. The ‘should I stay or should I enter my name in the draft’ conversations, ‘which school should I go to’ conversations. He was a walking book of experiences and knowledge. Sometimes I wish he could tell me one more story.”

Pressure is a GIFT

Messiah’s work ethic shows through his elevated play on the field. He is at peace with himself and his game. Knowing this is his last year of eligibility brings a smile to Swinson’s face. “I’ve really put in the work to get where I am.” Swinson, when asked if he feels pressure to perform at a high level this year, chuckles. “Pressure is a blessing; I control what I can control. I’m in a blessed situation. From who I was when I first started till now speaks for itself. It’s all about taking advantage of the opportunities when given; hopefully, Jalin and I get a lot of opportunities.”

Messiah knows what real pressure looks like, and it’s not football. “I watched my mom raise me by herself and never waver. I lost friends to mental health and sickness. This game is a privilege; when we talk about pressure, there are levels to that conversation.”

Wise beyond his years, Messiah hopes to help at-risk youth when he stops playing. “I want to help people that didn’t have the same opportunities I had as a youth. I was blessed with such a strong and supportive village; a lot of others weren’t, and I’ve seen the effects of that firsthand. I want to and will do my part to help.”

Pressure is an Illusion

Pressure is often times an illusion, and Messiah Swinson, who’s had to deal with pressure from his father, his father’s legacy, his father’s friends, his family, and peers, is diligent enough to know that none of that matters. The only thing that matters to Messiah is meeting the expectations that he’s put on himself and no one else, and if you ask Messiah Swinson, that’s exactly what he’s been doing and will continue to do.

The issue of bail reform, particularly in New York State, has become a contentious topic, with divergent views from various political factions.

Bail reform aimed to address cases like that of Kalief Browder, whose experience epitomized the injustices inherent in the pre-reform bail system. Browder’s story illustrates the harsh reality faced by many individuals who cannot afford bail and are consequently detained for extended periods, often experiencing abuse and trauma, even before being convicted of any crime. His tragic death after enduring years of pretrial detention without a conviction serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of an inequitable bail system.

The intent of bail reform was to mitigate such injustices by reevaluating the criteria for pretrial detention, with a focus on ensuring that individuals are not incarcerated solely because of their inability to pay bail. By implementing changes to bail laws, policymakers sought to reduce the unnecessary incarceration of individuals awaiting trial, particularly those from marginalized communities who are disproportionately affected by the previous bail system’s flaws.

However, the narrative surrounding bail reform has shifted amidst claims of an uptick in crime, particularly in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. Critics, predominantly conservative politicians, have seized upon this narrative to discredit bail reform efforts, attributing the rise in crime to the changes in bail laws. They argue for a return to the previous system, often invoking public safety concerns and citing anecdotal evidence to support their claims.

However, it’s essential to scrutinize these claims closely. While there may indeed be an increase in certain types of crime, attributing this solely to bail reform oversimplifies a complex issue. Crime rates can be influenced by a multitude of factors, including socioeconomic conditions, policing strategies, and the broader societal impacts of events like the pandemic.

Furthermore, reverting to the previous bail system without addressing its fundamental flaws would only perpetuate injustices like those experienced by Kalief Browder. Instead, policymakers should focus on comprehensive criminal justice reforms that prioritize fairness, equity, and public safety. This could include measures such as improving access to legal representation, investing in alternative forms of pretrial supervision, and addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty and mental health issues.

In essence, the debate surrounding bail reform in New York and elsewhere underscores the complexities of criminal justice policy. While there are valid concerns about public safety, any proposed changes must be carefully evaluated to ensure they promote fairness and address the systemic inequalities that have long plagued the justice system.

The argument presented suggests an alternative approach to addressing concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of the judicial system, particularly regarding bail reform. Rather than repealing bail reform laws, the suggestion is to ban the practice of cross-endorsement of judges.

Cross-endorsement refers to the practice where the same candidate’s name appears on the ballot for multiple political parties, often facilitated through political bargaining. This practice, as described, can lead to the appointment of judges based more on political connections and favoritism rather than merit or qualifications.

The author argues that by banning cross-endorsements, politicians would demonstrate their commitment to democracy and potentially result in the selection of more qualified and competent judges. The current system, as described, may allow for the appointment of judges who lack the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfill their duties effectively.

Additionally, the author highlights a concerning anecdote about a judge who allegedly relied on their court clerk for guidance on rulings, suggesting incompetence within the judiciary.

The argument concludes by suggesting that electing better judges could contribute to a more just society, implying that improving the quality and integrity of the judiciary is essential for ensuring fairness and justice.

In summary, the proposed solution advocates for reforming the process of selecting judges as a means to address issues within the judicial system, rather than solely focusing on repealing bail reform laws.

In an era dominated by globalization and international businesses, LocalContent.com stands out as a platform that is reshaping the landscape and leveling the playing field. Brian Moore, the Director of LocalContent.com, offers insights into how this platform is revolutionizing business, fostering community development, and promoting accountability. However, before exploring its present and future impact, it’s essential to delve into the history of local content and its significance in today’s world.

Local content has always played a crucial role in communities, serving as a means of communication, connection, and representation. From local newspapers and radio stations to community events and grassroots initiatives, local content has been the lifeblood of neighborhoods and towns around the world.

However, in the age of globalization, local content often struggles to compete with the vast resources and reach of multinational corporations. Small businesses and local initiatives find it challenging to gain visibility and connect with their communities amidst the noise of global markets.

Enter LocalContent.com, a platform designed to empower local businesses, organizations, and creators by providing them with a digital space to showcase their offerings and engage with their communities. By harnessing the power of technology, LocalContent.com bridges the gap between local and global, amplifying the voices and impact of grassroots initiatives.

Through LocalContent.com, businesses can reach a broader audience while maintaining their local identity and values. Communities can stay informed about local events, news, and initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. Moreover, the platform promotes accountability by facilitating transparency and communication between businesses and consumers.

In essence, LocalContent.com is more than just a platform; it’s a catalyst for change, revitalizing local economies, strengthening communities, and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable future. As Brian Moore shares his insights, it becomes clear that the power of local content is not just a relic of the past but a driving force shaping the present and future of business and community development.

The Historical Significance of Local Content

Local content is not a new concept; its roots can be traced back to the early days of industrialization when businesses were mostly local and community-centric. It was a time when products were made by local craftsmen, and consumers were deeply connected to the people behind their goods and services. However, as industrialization advanced, companies began to expand beyond their local boundaries.

This shift brought about a disconnect between businesses and the communities they served. As companies grew and started operating on a national or global scale, the economic benefits of their operations often bypassed local communities. Job opportunities, investments, and economic development no longer flowed back into the neighborhoods that these businesses called home.

Brian Moore emphasizes that LocalContent.com today “provides meaningful and measurable compliance for public reporting for communities.” This platform helps in tracking and ensuring that promises made by large developers and suppliers about economic development, workforce development, community benefit investments, and stakeholder engagement are truly realized.

Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Communities: A Path to Equity

Historically, industry development has often been met with skepticism within communities. Promises made to enhance the local economy, provide jobs, and support local businesses were frequently left unfulfilled. LocalContent.com steps in to bridge the gap between industry and communities.

Brian Moore emphasizes that LocalContent.com has a crucial role in providing visibility into what is being said and what is being done. It empowers communities to hold industries accountable for their commitments. This transparency helps in building trust between communities, industries, and local governments.

Empowering Black and Brown Businesses Through Local Content

Local content initiatives have a profound impact on businesses owned by Black and Brown entrepreneurs. Historically, these businesses have faced systemic barriers that limited their growth and access to opportunities. Local content requirements, however, are breaking down these barriers.

LocalContent.com plays a vital role in this transformation by ensuring that these businesses have a seat at the table. By tracking and measuring local content initiatives, the platform ensures that the economic benefits of industry expansion reach all segments of the community.

Brian Moore notes that “Local content will allow for the bridging of the worlds of industry, community, and government.” For Black and Brown businesses, this means more than just economic benefits; it means empowerment, growth, and a level playing field.

The Future of Local Content and Accountability

As we look ahead, local content initiatives like LocalContent.com are poised to play a more significant role in economic development. They ensure that when industry giants enter local communities, they do so with a commitment to benefiting those communities. This is a step towards a more equitable and accountable business landscape.

Brian Moore’s vision for LocalContent.com is clear: “We look to advance the utilization of local goods and services. There’s a wealth of other opportunities for small, local, diverse businesses to grow.” This vision aligns with the platform’s mission of connecting communities, industry, and government for mutual growth and success.

Conclusion

LocalContent.com serves as more than just a platform; it embodies principles of transparency, accountability, and community empowerment. It serves as a reminder that businesses, regardless of their size, should prioritize the communities in which they operate. Through its measurement and reporting on local content initiatives, this platform fosters a sense of trust and cooperation, ensuring that promises made by businesses are not merely lip service but are followed through with action. In doing so, LocalContent.com paves the way for a future where the benefits of industry expansion are shared equitably among all members of the community.

LocalContent.com is more than a website; it’s a movement that’s redefining how industries engage with communities, honoring the historical legacy of local content, and creating opportunities for Black and Brown businesses to thrive in a more equitable economy.

Mariah Dignan embodies the essence of dedicated action. With a background deeply rooted in organized labor, Mariah’s unwavering commitment lies in cultivating a workforce that is both diverse and inclusive. She passionately champions the cause of bringing organized labor to the forefront. Mariah’s family history, from her grandfather’s journey as an Irish immigrant working as a NYC bus driver in the Transport Workers Union of America to her father’s current role at Laguardia, underlines her profound connection to this mission. 

The offshore wind industry stands as a beacon of opportunity for all, with New York State mandates ensuring equal access. Mariah is at the helm of crafting a workforce that mirrors the rich diversity of New York, and in today’s economic climate, this is not just a need but an imperative. 

In our exploration of Long Island’s future, we engage with Mariah Dignan, the Labor Manager at Community Offshore Wind. Her insights shed light on the immense potential of offshore wind energy and its pivotal role in fostering diversity within Long Island’s workforce. 

Demystifying the Union Perspective: 

Community Offshore Winds, a dynamic partnership between RWE Renewables and National Grid Ventures, represents a realm of possibilities. With the largest lease area in the New York Bight, poised to serve over a million and a half Long Islanders, Mariah’s mission is crystal clear: “To ensure that organized labor on Long Island is not only diverse but also equitable, inclusive, and justice focused.” 

In New York, labor unions have historically been dominated by white males. However, winds of change are blowing, and Mariah is determined to hold the system accountable for its promises. She acknowledges the past but remains resolute that the future will be different. Mariah believes in the solidarity of labor unions, describing them as “family,” and underscores the progress made, such as the high retention rates and diversity in pre-apprenticeship programs. 

Creating Opportunities for All: 

Mariah’s approach to creating opportunities for all on Long Island is characterized by inclusivity, accessibility, and genuine grassroots efforts. Here’s a breakdown of her strategy:

Meeting People Where They Are: Mariah understands the diverse and multifaceted landscape of Long Island, recognizing that different communities have unique needs and challenges. Rather than imposing top-down solutions, she takes the time to understand the specific concerns of each community and tailors her approach accordingly.

Accessible Information: Mariah ensures that the information she provides is not only accessible but also impactful. This might involve using language and communication channels that resonate with the target audience, as well as breaking down complex information into easily understandable formats.

Grassroots Organizing: Mariah’s strategy is rooted in genuine grassroots organizing, which involves building connections and mobilizing communities from the ground up. By engaging directly with residents and community organizations, she fosters trust and collaboration, empowering local voices and initiatives.

Collaboration with Community Leaders: Mariah understands the importance of working closely with trusted community leaders who have deep roots and credibility within their respective neighborhoods. By partnering with these leaders, she gains valuable insights into the needs and priorities of the community, ensuring that her efforts are well-informed and effective.

Listening and Responding: Central to Mariah’s approach is the practice of active listening. She takes the time to listen to the concerns, ideas, and aspirations of community members, incorporating their feedback into her initiatives. This ensures that her work is truly responsive to the needs of the people she serves.

By employing these strategies, Mariah is able to create meaningful opportunities for all residents of Long Island, particularly those who are underserved and overlooked. Her commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and community engagement lays the foundation for positive and sustainable change in the region.

Diverse Career Paths in Offshore Wind: 

A robust workforce necessitates awareness and education. Mariah understands the multifaceted requirements of building a strong workforce and supply chain. “We need scientists, engineers, project managers, CNC machinists, and more,” she emphasizes. Long Island residents, regardless of their backgrounds, can find their niche in this burgeoning industry. 

Quality education is pivotal for Long Island’s future workforce. Mariah stresses the importance of standardized educational curricula that align with industry needs and bridge educational gaps, particularly in underserved communities. 

Recognizing the significance of a diverse supply chain, Mariah advocates for partnerships with local chambers of commerce, vendor programs, and workshops. Certification as a Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) opens doors to grants and supply chain opportunities on Long Island. 

Mariah’s Long-Term Vision: 

Mariah underlines the need for clear standards and expectations in various job roles on Long Island. Collaboration between industry, academia, and the state is paramount. She highlights the value of grassroots organizing in dismantling historical and systemic barriers, as discussed earlier. 

Mariah’s vision for Long Island in five years is compelling. She envisions Long Island’s skyline adorned not only with skyscrapers but also with majestic wind turbines gently turning just offshore. 

Mariah recognizes the challenges of living in the New York area, with skyrocketing inflation and crippling student loan debt. Offshore wind opportunities can provide meaningful options for both young and seasoned Long Islanders who are increasingly seeking opportunities elsewhere. “These turbines symbolize not only clean energy but also opportunity and hope for Long Island,” Mariah notes. 

For Mariah, these turbines signify economic revitalization for Long Island communities. They stand as beacons of change, inviting individuals from diverse backgrounds to embark on unique career journeys. These turbines signify Long Island’s transition to renewable energy and a more inclusive society. 

Mariah likens Long Island’s collective efforts in offshore wind energy to a grand symphony. Each stakeholder, each individual, plays a unique instrument in this ensemble. From engineers crafting turbines to educators nurturing future Long Island workers, everyone contributes to this magnificent performance. 

Mariah’s role is that of a conductor, ensuring that every note, every opportunity, harmoniously blends. “When the symphony reaches its crescendo,” she smiles, “we’ll witness not just the generation of clean energy but the transformation of lives on Long Island.” 

A Vision Realized: 

As our conversation concludes, Mariah’s passion for Long Island’s future radiates. Her vision for a cleaner, more inclusive, and sustainable Long Island through offshore wind energy resonates deeply. “I want to see individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, stepping into careers they never thought possible,” she shares. “I want to witness Long Island communities thriving, powered by the wind and the unbreakable spirit of the people who call Long Island home.” 

Key Takeaways from Mariah Dignan’s Vision for Offshore Wind Energy and Inclusive Opportunities in Long Island

1. Inclusive Workforce Advocacy: Mariah Dignan’s dedication to cultivating a diverse and equitable workforce within the offshore wind industry exemplifies a commitment to inclusivity, inspired by her own family’s history of labor involvement.

2. Offshore Wind’s Transformative Potential: Mariah’s insights shed light on the vast potential of offshore wind energy as a driving force for change in Long Island’s economy and its role in creating diverse career opportunities, addressing historical labor imbalances.

3. The Symphony of Inclusivity: Mariah’s vision of Long Island’s future, marked by wind turbines gently turning offshore, symbolizes not just clean energy but also a beacon of opportunity and hope. Her analogy of a symphony emphasizes the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, ensuring a harmonious transition to renewable energy and inclusive societies on Long Island.