The latest census showed that the United States has seen significant growth in its Latino population. Arturo Vargas, Executive Director of National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO), discusses what this means for Latino communities and how NALEO is working to make sure they are properly represented during redistricting at the local, state and federal level.

Former Ambassador Ron Kirk, U.S. Trade Representative, discusses the global economic environment and U.S. trade practices, education and innovation will help create jobs and grow wealth.

Hospital emergency rooms are often the "health safety net" for many communities. Denise Brooks-Williams of the National Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) discusses the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the role of local health service providers and the need for health equity.

PolicyTalk: U.S. Rep. Grace Flores Napolitano (D-CA) discusses education, mental health, and healthy food in schools.

Allan C. Golston, President of the United States Program at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, discusses creating a vibrant educational environment in the U.S and the particular importance of engaging minority communities in this process.

PolicyTalk: Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) discusses the role of technology in creating jobs, especially in communities of color, at the 2011 Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference.

Anna Maria Chávez, CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA, discusses her organization's role in supporting and developing girls and women, especially in Latino communities, to become strong leaders across the United States.

Barbara Smith, Author and B. Smith's Restaurant owner, discusses healthy foods and childhood obesity in our nation.

Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA) discusses the influence of culture and hip hop in communities as well as the importance of advocating for jobs in communities of color during the Hip Hop Caucus panel at the 2011 Congressional Black Caucus ALC.

Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-MD) discusses the role that hip hop and music can play in energizing and organizing people to promote change in their communities at the 2011 Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference.