Thursday, March 19 | 1:15 – 2:15 PM
Afternoon Session Plenary
California’s Role in the Federal Landscape: Centering Communities on the Frontlines
Sponsored by US Bank
California stands at a defining moment. With shifting federal priorities, looming budget cuts, and growing national debates over homelessness, immigration, and economic security, the state must navigate unprecedented challenges while continuing to lead with bold, equity-driven solutions. This plenary brings together federal advocates, state leaders, and community experts to explore how California can protect progress, safeguard critical safety-net programs, and advance a proactive agenda, no matter the federal climate.
Panelists will discuss the federal landscape for housing and homelessness funding, threats to immigrant communities, the state’s legal and regulatory role, and opportunities to strengthen federal–state partnerships. The conversation will highlight practical strategies California can deploy to protect renters, expand affordable housing, uphold civil rights, and continue driving national policy innovation—even in moments of political uncertainty. Attendees will leave with a clear sense of the stakes, the opportunities ahead, and how our collective advocacy can move California forward.
Plenary Speakers
Chione Flegal – Moderator
Executive Director
Housing California
Ann Oliva
Chief Executive Officer
National Alliance to End Homelessness
Masih Ali Fouladi
Executive Director
California Immigrant Policy Center
Chris Iglesias
Chief Executive Officer
The Unity Council
Diane Yentel
President and Chief Executive Officer
National Council of Nonprofits
Friday, March 20 | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Morning Session Plenary
The Roadmap Home: A Roadmap to Thriving Communities for California
California is at an inflection point. As the state faces deepening housing instability, rising homelessness, and widening racial and economic inequities, the Roadmap Home offers a comprehensive, community-driven blueprint for meaningful, long-term change. This plenary brings together movement leaders, organizers, advocates, and partners who helped shape the Roadmap Home to explore how California can build a future where everyone has a safe, stable, affordable home.
Speakers will share the vision behind the Roadmap, the bold policy solutions it advances, and the power of community leadership in driving statewide transformation. Panelists will discuss the pathways to winning sustained funding, expanding tenant protections, accelerating affordable housing production, repairing racial harm, and strengthening cross-sector coalitions that can hold the state accountable to this shared agenda.
Attendees will walk away energized, informed, and deeply connected to a movement that insists on possibility. This session sets the tone for the next decade of housing justice work—rooted in equity, powered by community, and guided by a clear roadmap for change.
Plenary Speakers
Julie Lo – Moderator
Deputy Director of Programs
Housing California
Jared Rivera
Chief of Staff
PICO California
Ben Grieff
Executive Director
Evolve California
Leah Rothstein
Author and Housing Policy Advocate