A year ago, our tri-state region was in shock from the first wave of Covid-19, watching its economy go into a free fall, and about to experience the trauma of George Floyd’s murder, all of which exposed structural inequalities rooted in centuries of injustice.

Predictions about the pandemic and our future were mired in uncertainty, although it was already clear that Black, brown, and poor residents as well as small businesses were taking the brunt of the health and economic crises. This panel will focus on addressing what the last year has taught us about how to create a strong recovery that addresses systemic inequities. What can be done to address the challenges ahead? What policies are needed to ensure a just and prosperous future?

Prior to the panel, US Senator Cory Booker (NJ) will be interviewed by RPA Board Member Jun Choi, CEO of Menlo Realty Ventures and former Mayor of Edison, NJ. Their conversation will help set the stage for the panel discussion about what policies are needed to ensure a just and prosperous future.