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As prisons and jails became hot spots for infection of the coronavirus, many in pre-trial detention and non-violent offenders were released to reduce overcrowding and rapid spread of the virus. In light of this influx of previously incarcerated individuals into the workforce, Brookings hosted a conversation on employment after incarceration, addressing the challenges facing formerly incarcerated individuals in the COVID-19 era, as well as how businesses can mitigate these challenges and commit to “Fair Chance” hiring. 

Economic development organizations (EDOs) face an uncertain future as plummeting revenue streams and rising costs for health care, emergency response and unemployment benefits sparked by the coronavirus pandemic squeeze the budgets of cities and states.

Broadband has been a key indicator of disparities in economic and social development opportunities, and this has become even clearer during a crisis requiring the rapid expansion of virtual connectivity. Economic development and recovery, especially in areas where these impacts have been exacerbated by a lack of reliable, high-speed internet, will increasingly rely on expanding access.

From May 26, 2020 onward, a series of police brutality and anti-racism protests have flared up across more than 30 U.S. cities spurred by the killing of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The majority of demonstrations have been peaceful, however some businesses have become caught in the crossfire.