July 17, 2026
Join Beyond the Gavel, a brunch celebration hosted during the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) along the iconic Chicago River. The event will bring together five trailblazing House Speakers who have each made history in their respective states: Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch New York Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie Virginia House Speaker Don Scott Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna E. McClinton Delaware House Speaker Melissa Minor-Brown RSVP at admin@hdemsIL.com
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Historic Black House Speakers from Across the Nation to Gather in Chicago for "Beyond the Gavel" Brunch Celebration
Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch will welcome four of the nation's most influential legislative leaders to Chicago for Beyond the Gavel, a first-of-its-kind brunch celebration honoring historic leadership, enduring legacy, and the impact of public service beyond elected office.