MDC Rural Forward

Voting rights remain one of the defining civil rights issues of our time, and the South continues to be at the center of that struggle.

In a new commentary published by Mississippi Free Press, MDC President & CEO Lakeisha Hood Moïse and Race Matters Institute Director Kamilah Pickett examine the continued dismantling of Voting Rights Act protections and what it means for Black political power, representation, and democracy across the South.

The piece explores how today's legal and political battles are connected to a much longer history of disenfranchisement, and why the consequences extend far beyond elections.

Read the full commentary:
https://www.mississippifreepress.org/opinion-courts-continue-to-attack-black-voting-rights-in-the-south/

Student loan debt doesn’t just impact individuals—it impacts families, workplaces, and communities.

When workers are burdened by long-term debt, it affects:
• Financial stability
• Career decisions
• Homeownership
• Small business creation
• Savings for the future

North Carolina has an opportunity to lead with practical solutions that support borrowers and strengthen our economy.

🔗 Learn more: https://sdrc.mdcinc.org/mdcs-policy-and-program-priorities/

More than 1.4 million North Carolinians carry a combined $52.2 billion in student loan debt.

For many families, this debt affects everyday decisions—from paying bills and saving money to buying a home or planning for the future.

Today, MDC released new policy priorities focused on practical solutions that can reduce financial pressure and strengthen economic opportunity across North Carolina.

Read the priorities here:
🔗 https://sdrc.mdcinc.org/mdcs-policy-and-program-priorities/

We’re thrilled to celebrate MDC Senior Program Director Jenna Bryant on her selection to the 2026 Dole Caregiver Fellowship Class with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation

The Fellowship brings together military and veteran caregivers from across the country who are using their lived experiences to build community, raise awareness, and advocate for caregivers and military families nationwide.

Jenna’s leadership at MDC is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community care. Her selection reflects both her professional leadership and the powerful caregiving journey she brings to this work every day.

We are incredibly proud to support Jenna and grateful to see her voice and experience recognized through this prestigious national fellowship.

Learn more about Jenna’s story and the Fellowship here:
https://www.elizabethdolefoundation.org/fellows/jenna-bryant

What does it take to expand access to food and nutrition supports across North Carolina?

A new Catalyst Blog shares lessons from the Coordinating SNAP and Nutrition Support effort, with contributions from Jenna Bryant, MDC Senior Program Director, and other statewide partners.

The work highlights how stronger connections between SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid, along with input from people with lived experience, can improve how families access essential services.

Read the blog to hear directly from the team and learn how collaboration is opening doors for communities across the state!
🔗: https://aphsa.org/resources/breaking-barriers-to-food-access-north-carolinas-snap-coordination-story/

This isn’t the end—it’s a call to act.

For over 30 years, Leandro represented a promise: that every child in North Carolina deserves a sound, basic, and fully funded education. While the recent ruling shifts the path forward, it does not change the reality. Too many students, especially in low-wealth and rural communities, are still being left behind.

At MDC, we remain committed to educational equity for all. Through LENS-NC and alongside our partners, we will continue to advocate, organize, and push for the resources every student deserves.

Now is the time to build power, strengthen community, and hold our leaders accountable.

Read the full statement here:https://mdcinc.org/2026/04/23/the-promise-of-leandro/

Child care providers and early childcare leaders! This is for you!!

Join us for a FREE conference designed for those who know that strong communities start with strong early investments in our children. Held in Forsyth County, NC, this convening brings together passionate leaders committed to shaping a brighter future.

📣: Connect, learn, and be inspired alongside others who are making a difference every day.

Don't miss your chance - register now!
https://www.earlychildhoodblueprint.org/

In a recent op-ed, MDC’s Harrison Dale reflects on immigration, citizenship, and history, drawing connections between past and present to examine how legal status, belonging, and protection can shift over time.

The piece challenges us to consider how we define citizenship and what it means to build a society rooted in dignity and safety for all.

Check out the article by clicking the link: https://mdcinc.org/2026/03/17/anne-frank-and-what-is-a-citizen/