Local Power Summit: Looking Back, Moving Forward

July 22-23, 2025
Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania

Thank you for joining us!

The inaugural Local Power Summit, hosted by Public Rights Project; Montgomery County, PA; and the Institute for Responsive Government, brought together local leaders from across the country. For two days, we focused on connection, strategy, and powerful dialogue.

We came together to learn from one another, confront shared challenges, and strengthen our commitment to leading today for a better tomorrow. As a result, the energy in the room made it clear. Local power is not just a theme — it is a movement.

In case you missed it

Catch up on key moments, insights, and takeaways from the summit:

• Event recap from Jonathan Miller
  Chief Program Officer Jonathan Miller reflects on major themes, shared challenges, and standout moments from the two-day convening.

• Reflections from Jill Habig
  Founder & CEO Jill Habig shares why local power matters more than ever — and what’s next in the fight for justice at home.

• View photo gallery
  See highlights from the summit, including the speakers, the sessions, and the incredible community that made it all possible.

About the summit

In every neighborhood, city, and county, local government leaders drive resilient communities. They ensure critical services remain available and that residents stay safe and healthy. In times of uncertainty, their leadership is not just important — it is indispensable.

However, local leaders today face mounting pressures. Public distrust is growing, and economic instability is deepening. In addition, they must navigate federal overreach, restrictive policy threats, and unlawful funding cuts. All of this happens while they work to protect the rights of their communities.

The Local Power Summit was created to respond to this moment. With speakers that included mayors, county commissioners, policy experts, and organizers, the gathering offered a space for honest conversation, shared learning, and actionable strategies. Therefore, participants left better equipped to defend civil rights, strengthen democracy, and build local resilience.

When local governments lead with vision and courage, they shape a future that works for everyone.

Hosted by
Public Rights Project
Institute for Responsive Government
Neil Makhija, Montgomery County Commissioner (Pennsylvania)

Need more info? Submit your questions.

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