Black History Month Community Champion Spotlight: State Representative Lindsay Powell

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating community champions, who happen to be part of the talented staff and board at the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.

State Representative Lindsay Powell was elected to the House in 2023 to represent the 21st Legislative District in Allegheny County. She has served as a URA board member for five years. She formerly served as a City of Pittsburgh assistant chief of staff for almost half a decade and directed legislation and policy for City departments. Most recently, she was the Director of Workforce Strategies for InnovatePGH. Representative Powell is passionate about creating safe and dignified housing for all, helping working families, assisting small businesses and strengthening the local economy, and increasing community assets. Hear from her:

What community impact and/or outcome are you most proud of achieving in your time with the URA? 

I’m always extremely proud of this organization but in particular, I am grateful for the work that the URA did during the height of the pandemic. We were able to create and implement programs that were truly keeping people from devastating outcomes. From eviction prevention to small business support, the URA was instrumental in making sure that our neighbors made it through.

What do you want for Pittsburgh's future?

I want Pittsburgh to be a city that we are all proud to work in and proud to call home. I believe that we have all the tools at our fingertips to continue the fight to make this city livable for all and a place where we can thrive through our collective work and care for all of our neighbors.

Who is a Black leader you most look up to?

My answer will always be Shirley Chisholm! As the first Black woman to be elected to US Congress who served seven terms, she led with authenticity and passion. Adamant on always centering vulnerable and underrepresented populations, Congresswoman Chisholm truly was a beacon of light and hope for so many that she represented and those to come.

Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn.