Iowa lawmakers create first Black and Brown Legislative Caucus

DES MOINES, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa Capitol Bureau) – Iowa lawmakers announced the creation of a new Black and Brown Legislative Caucus on Monday, marking the first group of its kind in state history.

The 12-member caucus aims to address equality in Iowa and to end discrimination through the legislative process.

“This caucus exists to make sure that when decisions are made, our community is heard and not just as an after thought, but as a priority,” said Co-Vice Chair Democrat State Representative Mary Madison of West Des Moines.

The group laid out its legislative priorities for the 2026 session at Monday’s announcement. The Protect the American Dream Act is a series of bills that the caucus says protect Iowa’s minorities.

One bill would prevent federal immigration officers from wearing masks in public. Another would ban immigration officers from detaining individuals at schools, churches, and courthouses.

“These are essential to protect every Iowan. With these protections we will ensure that all Iowans are treated with dignity and respect. We urge our colleagues regardless of their political party to stand firm with us as we protect the American dream,” said Democrat State Representative Angel Ramirez of Cedar Rapids.

The group says it reached out to Republican lawmakers to join the caucus, but none attended Monday’s announcement.

Source link