2014 CBCF-ALC Special Edition by The Washington Informer

4 4 t h

A N N U A L

L E G I S L A T I V E

C O N F E R E N C E

IT STARTS WITH YOU.

SEPTEMBER 24 - 27, 2014

WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER CBFINC.ORG/ALC â€¢ (877) 585-6018

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NEWSPAPER READING IS A HABIT DON’T BREAK THE HABIT! Dear Friends and Supporters, On behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF), welcome to the 44th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) September 24 – 27, 2014. The theme is a continuation of last year’s, “It Starts with You,” a call to action designed to inspire individuals to become engaged, active agents for positive change in their communities.

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Through ALC, the CBCF provides a platform to explore the challenges, disparities and opportunities facing African Americans and black communities around the world. More than 9,000 attendees representing business, community and emerging leaders, elected officials, media, and every day Americans will converge at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to participate in solution-centered sessions focusing on issues that significantly impact African Americans.

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We are proud to partner with The Washington Informer, an African-American institution that shares our passion for the mission of advancing the global black community, for this special section. In these pages, you will find in-depth information on the CBCF’s programs, ALC policy sessions, panelists and special events.

...Informing you everyday in every way

ALC also provides an outlet to showcase the work of the CBCF’s fellows, interns and scholarship recipients. They will serve as panelists, provide analysis of pertinent policy issues, perform at special events and interact with attendees. Proceeds from the conference support the CBCF’s education, health, economic empowerment and public policy initiatives. Highlights of the conference include National Town Hall, which will focus on voting rights and the midterm election, the inspirational Prayer Breakfast featuring Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III of Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City and the conference culminating event, the Phoenix Awards Dinner. The Exhibit Showcase will feature the popular Authors Pavilion showcasing contemporary African-American literature and a Health Pavilion where free health screenings will be provided to conference attendees. Thank you for your support and continued commitment to the CBCF’s mission. Our goal is that you will leave the conference both energized and equipped to be the change you want to see in your community and nation. For more information about the CBCF and ALC, visit www.cbcfinc.org. Sincerely,

A. Shuanise Washington CEO and President

4 Conference attendees can expect to interact with members of the CBC such as former CBC chairs, Congressman Elijah Cummings (Dem – MD) shown speaking at the 2013 conference while Congressman Emmanuel Cleaver (Dem – MO) looks on. Photo courtesy of CBCF

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About The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy, research and educational institute that aims to help improve the socioeconomic circumstances of African Americans and other underserved communities. It is the policy of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation NOT to advocate or support either directly or indirectly, the election or defeat of any candidate for public or political office. The CBCF does not donate or contribute to any candidate's campaign, nor does it participate or engage in political fundraising events nor otherwise solicit contributions, nor endorse or oppose a candidate. Founded in 1976 and based in Washington, D.C., the CBCF envisions a world in which the black community is free of all disparities and able to contribute fully to advancing the common good. Its mission is to advance the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. It is achieving that mission by:

Facilitating the exchange of ideas and information to address critical issues affecting our communities. Developing strategic research and historical resources for the public. Providing leadership development and scholarship opportunities. Developing effective programs and research to address social, economic and health disparities. Each year, the CBCF undertakes significant public health, economic empowerment and scholarship programs that benefit thousands of people across the country. Its stellar fellowship and internship programs are among the largest of their kind and, while enabling young African Americans to pursue careers in public policy and public service, have helped to diversify the ranks of officeholders and staff on Capitol Hill and throughout the federal and state governments. The CBCF's influence extends to African-American intellectuals and others focused on policy and legislative issues. Each Sep-

tember, thousands of elected officials and industry leaders, celebrities, media, emerging leaders and everyday Americans come to Washington, D.C., for the organization's Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). The conference features participation by the Congressional Black Caucus and includes dozens of policy forums, general sessions, exhibits, a job fair, book signings and vast networking opportunities. In addition, the CBCF produc-

es district-level forums throughout the country to explore public policy concerns, promote public health and financial empowerment and to solicit opinions and recommendations of citizens at the local community level. The CBCF and our volunteers through the Congressional Black Caucus Spouses also sponsor an annual scholarship classic that raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for educational and training opportunities for college stu-

dents. The CBCF programs are supported by fundraising events and the generous support of our corporate partners and individual donors. To better expand and sustain its research efforts, and to enhance its leadership education programs, the CBCF is establishing a multi-million-dollar endowment to provide support for its efforts not just for one year, or even one generation, but also in perpetuity. n

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Needs Your Support

H H H H

Your contribution to Congressional Black Caucus Foundation helps us fulfill our mission to advance the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. Let us continue to work together to make a difference in the lives of many more. Please give today and please give generously. Thank you for your support! Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. 1720 Massachusetts Ave., NW • Washington, DC 20036 E-mail: info@cbcfinc.org • webmaster@cbcfinc.org Phone: 202.263.2800

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Thousands Gather in Washington, D.C. for Historic CBCF 44th ALC By: Shrita Sterlin-Hernandez “It Starts with You.” This phrase serves as the theme of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) 44th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), held from September 24–27, 2014 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. It also serves as a call to action for every person attending ALC. After all, the CBCF ALC is an opportunity to explore the power each and every individual has to be an agent of positive change in black communities throughout the nation and around the globe. In that context, the overall goal of ALC is to provide an assortment of tools that help to enhance the role that African Americans and black people have in political, legislative, and public-policy arenas at a time when black communities continue to face daunting economic, political and social challenges. "The ALC offers the unique opportunity to engage today's AfricanAmerican leaders with a focus on workable solutions and actionable items," said Rep. Sanford Bishop (Georgia), who is an honorary co-chair of this year’s ALC. “ALC attendees will gain a sense of responsibility and accountability to take a claim against disparities that affect so many African Americans.” "During ALC, attendees will have an opportunity to interface with industry executives, community leaders, lawmakers, and celebrities who are engaged actively on issues affecting our diverse communities," said Rep. Joyce Beatty (Ohio), one of the co-chairs of the conference. “’It Starts with You’ is befitting,” Beatty continued. “Every voice is critical to this collective as we focus on our agenda of closing the achievement gap, the health gap, and the wealth gap.”

5 NBC News Anchor Tamron Hall and Actor and Producer Wendall Pierce - host the Phoenix Awards Dinner during the 43rd Annual Legislative Conference. 4 Attendees – look engaged during a public policy discussion on gun violence.

5 Members of the Congressional Black Caucus on stage at the Phoenix Dinner last year. 4 Eric Holder – US Attorney General speaks at a forum during 43rd Annual Legislative Conference.

The CBCF is expecting nearly 9,000 attendees at ALC this year. ALC, the premier conference of its kind, is one of the largest public policy conferences in the country focused on the challenges confronting African Americans and black communities worldwide. Over the course of four days, attendees participate in more than 70 sessions that concentrate on a host of issues, including economic empowerment, civic engagement, education, and health care, and nearly 20,000 people actively engage in the conference events. Attendees include elected officials, business leaders, educators, clergy, civic activists and professionals representing the collective interests of the black people worldwide. ALC also seeks to engage attendees on the important issues of the day, from the shooting death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, to HIV/AIDS and climate change. "As we embark on the 44th year of organizing our ALC, we hope to explore not just the challenges that people of color face every day, but also, the opportunities that exist for African Americans in terms of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and careers, economic empowerment, and community development," said A. Shuanise Washington, president and chief executive officer, CBCF. This year's ALC will feature the Exhibit Showcase with an on-site employment fair; the Prayer Breakfast with gospel legend, Richard Smallwood who expressed his enthusiasm to perform this year. “I’m excited to participate in the Prayer Breakfast once again. It’s always an honor, and I am proud to be a part of the Annual Legislative Conference.” Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, pastor of Abyssinian Baptist church in New York will deliver the message during the Prayer Breakfast; and the culminating event, the Phoenix Awards Dinner, which supports the CBCF's education, economic development, health, Continued on Page SS-5

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research, and other essential programs. As Hill Harper, the activist and actor, put it: “ALC is the leading policy conference for African-American leaders, lawmakers, students, and concerned citizens who want to engage in challenging conversations about civil and social justice.” Judge Greg Mathis shared the sentiment. “The CBCF helps people overcome great odds by providing educational and employment opportunities and leadership development,” he said. “All of this will be highlighted at ALC.” General registration for the CBCF ALC opened on May 21. Register for the CBCF e-newsletter and follow the CBCF on social media for regular updates. Visit cbcfinc.org to learn more. Join the CBCF on social media to stay connected to the latest conference news. Twitter: http://twitter.com/CBCFInc FALC14)

(#CBC-

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CBCFInc Instagram: http://instagram.com/cbcfinc LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ congressional-black-caucus-foundation Google+: http://google.com/+CBCFIncorg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CBCFINC n

5 Author Terry McMillan – Signing autographs of her latest book during the Authors Pavilion at the 43rd Annual Legislative Conference. (Top) Two attendees shake hands by one of the signs with conference information (Above Left) Community Breakfast – Volunteers serve seniors, the homeless and low-income families during Community Breakfast. 3 Town Hall Meeting – Baltimore Mayor, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and former Newark, NJ Mayor now Senator Cory Booker engage audience during the national town hall discussion. All photos are scenes from last year and are courtesy of CBCF

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CBC Continues To Meet Tough Challenges By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer From Trayvon Martin to Michael Brown and from civil rights to voting rights, the Congressional Black Caucus has been confronted with a litany of challenges over the past couple of years. However, members of the proud 43-year-old caucus (CBC) will soon be faced with what several are referring to as its most daunting challenge: selecting a successor to its chair, Marcia L. Fudge (D-Ohio). “Marcia Fudge has been an excellent leader. We all know that we at some point have to pass the baton,” said Rep. Chaka Fattah (D-Pa.), a high-ranking member of the CBC who also serves as board chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF). Every two years, the CBC elects a new chair and Fattah said Fudge has done an exemplary job and members will continue to lean upon her for assistance. “First and foremost, we will make sure that she’ll continue to have an opportunity to lead,” said Fattah, 57. “There will be a new chair after the November elections and I’m

sure that we will find a competent member from among us.” Fattah said he doesn’t know who might be selected or who will be considered. However, he speculated that among the contenders could be Rep. Robin Kelly of Illinois, Rep. Steve Horsford of Nevada and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York. “There are some younger members like Kelly, Horsford and Jeffries and then there are also some of the names that have been around forever,” Fattah said. “We have a very strong base and we can be sure that, for the rest of our lives, there will be competent leadership.” Fattah said the biggest challenges for the CBC can easily be discerned simply by understanding obstacles facing black communities around the country. “The disparities that exist are our challenges,” he said. In distinguishing his role as a congressman and member of the CBC from his position as Board President of the CBCF Fattah said the CBC counts as a powerful political caucus which seeks to legislate in Congress. The foundation stands as a nonprofit, nonpartisan

public policy, research and educational institution that seek to aide advances in the global black community through leadership cultivation, community education and civic engagement. “The Foundation is an entity that focuses on preparing the next generation to work on the Hill," Fattah said. “Between the work of the caucus and the Foundation, there is an extraordinary movement to bridge the disparities that communities of color face.” He said the CBC and the CBCF have been at the forefront of calling attention to and seeking justice for blacks and other minorities, including reinstating the original Voting Rights Act and remaining vigilant about civil rights. When Martin, an unarmed black Florida teenager, died in 2012 after being shot by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman, both the CBC and the Foundation called on the federal government to investigate. Earlier this year, when Brown, another unarmed black teen died after being shot multiple times by a police officer in Ferguson, Illinois, both entities worked closely with President Barack Obama’s admin-

Rep. Chaka Fattah (DPa.) said the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation has worked hard to meet their goals. Courtesy of Open Congress

5 Among the challenges ahead for the CBC is naming a replacement for outgoing its outgoing chair, Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (D-Oh.) Courtesy of politics365.com

istration to seek federal remedies in the ongoing case that’s led to a progressive movement for change including peaceful protests in the heavily black to the heavily black populated community in the St. Louis suburbs. “The caucus has a special responsibility to represent the interests of African Americans. In Ferguson, we have not only been able to help persuade Attorney General Eric Holder to launch a federal investigation into the death of Mike Brown, but there’s also now a federal investigation of the police in St. Louis County to look for systemic problems there,” Fattah said. He said when the caucus moves so does the White House and, while the CBC counts itself as an ally of the president, they haven’t always seen eye-to-eye. “Obama has accomplished some great things that, when historians look back on his two terms, they are going to come to the realization that he was one of the great presidents in history,” Fattah said. “Now, he may have fallen short in some areas such as the Plus Student Loans in which he initially eliminated. He thought he was doing the right thing but, after we sat with him and explained how badly it affected historically black colleges and universities, Obama reversed himself. That was a big issue.”

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Fattah said the caucus continues to try and meet challenges in employment and in economic opportunity. He said advances in education and health care counts as two areas in which membership remains pleased. “Over the last year, you have more African Americans in college than ever, and you’ve literally had millions of African Americans insured at an average cost of about $68 per month,” Fattah said, adding that he’s still working on his “Brain” project, an initiative which promotes research and discovery across brain cognition, development, disease and injury. The goal of the initiative is to map the activity in the human brain and ultimately better understand how the mind works and discover new ways to treat, prevent and cure long-standing brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, autism and traumatic brain injury. “Through this initiative, we have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for this nation, to unlock the mysteries of the human brain and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans and countless individuals throughout the world,” Fattah said. “Improving the livelihoods of our citizens and future generations through advancements in the diagnoses of dementia and other related diseases is a worthy cause.” n

Mayor Vincent C. Gray

and the residents of the District of Columbia welcome you to the

Congressional Black Caucus Foundation 44th Annual Legislative Conference September 24-27, 2014

As you gather in the year of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the historic Civil Rights Act of 1964, we urge you to heed the unforgettable words of civil rights icon, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in his Letter from Birmingham Jail:

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

We ask for your help in ending the injustice faced by the 660,000 tax-paying D.C. residents who lack full congressional representation.

It Starts with YOU

Government GOVERNMENT OF THE of the District of Col of Planning DISTRICT OFOffice COLUMBIA Mayor VINCENT C.Vincent GRAY, C. MGray, AYOR

The CBCF’s First International Program Helps Students Explore China By: Tim Pulliam Nineteen college students returned from a trip to China last month, as part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) Emerging Leaders: US-China Study Abroad Program. The group, called Marcia L. Fudge Inaugural Cohort, visited Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai and studied Chinese history, Mandarin, business and politics for two weeks. “This cohort exemplifies the CBCF’s mission to expand the reach and opportunities for African Americans globally,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the CBCF. “Our hope is that this initiative will increase African-American interest in building relationships, careers and study opportunities between the two countries.” For many in the cohort, it was their first time traveling on a plane

and abroad. From August 2 – August 18, they toured the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City in Beijing and participated in lectures about China’s economy, education system, history and US-China relations. When the students returned to the U.S., many of them said they grew as individuals, gained a new worldly perspective and learned the value of heritage—not only from the people of China, but also an appreciation for their own. Sophomore Nialah Wilson, a mechanical engineering major at Howard University, said the trip was inspirational. “I want to go back and gain a [deeper] sense of what China is about and, maybe, start a business there.” Wilson says she wants to make a universal impact using robotics applied in the biomedical field. The China-U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF) organized

Marcia L. Fudge Inaugural Cohort Student Participants during their visit to the Great Wall of China.

and administered the program in collaboration with CBCF. The inaugural cohort was comprise mostly freshman and sophomores chosen from 19 colleges and universities in Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) member districts. Selected students had a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and nearly all majored in natural sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, international trade, business, or energy development. To learn more about the CBCF and its programs, visit www.cbcfinc.org. n

Marcia L. Fudge Inaugural Cohort Student Participants 1. Aaron Edmond

Morgan State University

11. Israel Hill

Case Western Reserve University

2. Aaron Walker

St. John’s University

12. Kamari Wright

The Ohio State University

3. Bradford Corley Benedict College

13. Keion Howard

Morgan State University

4. Candace Young

14. Keriah Lima

Benedict College

5. Chelsea Burnley Drexel University

15. Nialah Wilson

Howard University

6. Chelsea Maria

16. Nina Nesbitt

Howard University

Drexel University

Ducille

7. Daniel Meredith The Ohio State University

17. Quelantae Nunn North Carolina Central University

8. Eiryn Lawrence

Medgar Evers College

18. Rachel Kazungu Alabama State University

9. Evan Harris

Case Western Reserve University

19. Stacy-Ann James Medgar Evers College

10. Howard Rhodes

South Carolina State University

5 A. Shuanise Washington with members of the Chinese delegation during their recent trip.

In addition to learning, there were many opportunities for fellowship.

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CBCF to Celebrate AfricanAmerican Leaders in Fine Arts By: Anne Williams The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) and the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Spouses will recognize the contributions of three icons in the arts during its Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts. This year’s honorees are Phylicia Rashad, Bill Withers and Dr. Alvin Poussaint. Angela Rye, the founder and director of Impact Strategies, will serve as the mistress of ceremonies. The event will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2014 at 8 p.m. at the Newseum in Washington D.C. “Any discussion about AfricanAmerican history and culture must include African-American artists,” said A. Shuanise Washington, the president and CEO of the CBCF. “Through the Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts, the CBCF and the CBC Spouses pay homage to those whose creative bodies of

work convey the rich and diverse African-American experience. CBCF is proud to support the next generation of great artists with scholarships to pursue their education and hone their crafts.” Now in its 18th year, the Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts raises scholarship funds for students pursuing visual and performing arts. Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, wife of US House of Rep. Elijah Cummings is the event chair. “The CBC Spouses are honored to recognize the outstanding artistic and literary contributions of this year’s honorees and are especially pleased that proceeds from this event will go toward providing scholarships for young emerging talent,” said Rockeymoore Cummings. “We must support a new generation on their journey so that we can uphold the long legacy of African-American artistic excellence.”

Phylicia Rashad is best known for her role as the loving and supportive “Claire Huxtable” on “The Cosby Show.” She is also an accomplished stage actress, who in 2004, won a Tony Award for her performance in “A Raisin in the Sun,” making her the first AfricanAmerican woman to win the honor in a dramatic leading role. Rashad is a native of Houston and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Howard University. In her most recent television role, Rashad portrayed Dr. Vanessa Young in the NBC series, “Do No Harm.” Bill Withers is a legendary singer-songwriter with a music career that spans more than four decades. Between the 1970s and 1980s, he won “Song of the Year” Grammys for “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Just the Two of Us” and “Lean on Me.” His songs have been covered by numerous artists across various genres of music, including Michael

Phylicia Rashad,

Bill Withers

Jackson, Barbra Streisand, Gladys Knight, Michael Bolton, John Legend and Jill Scott. In 2005, Withers was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Alvin Poussaint, M.D. is a psychiatrist and professor of psychiatry at the Harvard Medical School in Boston. Dr. Poussaint has written more than 100 articles and professional publications, including “Why Blacks Kill Blacks,” and “Come on, People,” a book he co-wrote with Bill Cosby. He was a script consultant to NBC’s “The Cosby Show” and “A Different World” and continues to advocate for responsible programming. Dr. Poussaint at-

From cobblestone streets and waterfront dining to Old Town boutiques. We invite attendees of the CBCF’s Annual Legislative Conference to visit historic Alexandria. VisitAlexandriaVA.com | #ExtraordinaryALX

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Alvin Poussaint

tended Columbia and earned his doctor of medicine from Cornell in 1960. He received postgraduate training at UCLA. Past honorees include B.B. King, Quincy Jones, Tyler Perry, Alice Walker, Robert Townsend, the O’Jays, and most recently, critically acclaimed Artist Carrie Mae Weems, award-winning Director/ Producer Antoine Fuqua, and visionary Educator and Novelist Tananarive Due. The celebration will kick off the CBCF’s 44th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), held Sept. 24 – 27, 2014 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. n

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CBCF President Aims High A. Shuanise Washington Seeking Advancement Opportunities for Blacks By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer A. Shuanise Washington has always aimed high, setting her sights on accomplishing some of the lofty goals that she and others have established for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, the Northwest-based nonprofit public policy, research and educational organization. “The foundation has, since its inception, existed to eliminate disparities within the AfricanAmerican community and the global black community,” said Washington, 50. “My vision is consistent with that. I view ways in which we can build upon the rich tradition of the programs the Foundation has enjoyed over the years,” she said. Those programs include providing scholarship opportunities that help increase the pool of black leaders, developing community-based initiatives and conducting public research to address social, economic and health disparities. They also include facilitating the exchange of ideas and information to address critical issues affecting all individuals of color, Washington said. “My platforms can be summed up in three words, relevance, permanence and sustainability which go along toward our desire of expanding our reach and presence nationally and globally,” she said. Named as president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) in 2013, Washington has been tasked with overseeing the organization’s public policy, research, educational and fundraising initiatives, most notably the Annual Legislative Conference, a four-day gathering that begins on Wednesday, Sept. 24 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest. The significance of the Washington, D.C. conference can be measured in that it generally attracts a who’s who in the world of politics, business, entertainment, academia and other sectors. It also

5 A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, talks on the phone in her office on Massachusetts Avenue in Northwest. / Photo by Nancy Shia

The conference is the place where we challenge people and ourselves to engage in the difficult conversations about social justice and economic empowerment, among other issues. It begins the hard work of creating sustainable solutions to the issues black people face every day.

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provides a measuring stick for the accomplishments achieved by the Foundation. “The Annual Legislative Conference has long been acknowledged as one of the most important gatherings of AfricanAmerican leaders in the nation,” said U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah (DPa.), chairman of the CBCF board of directors. “The sharing of experiences and ideas among policymakers, community activists, and people from all walks of life on what has worked in terms of moving African Americans forward, and what has not, will be a very valuable outcome from this conference,” said Fattah, 57. Washington said the focus of the conference will continue to be on the elimination of disparities for blacks and other minorities. She said that’s a goal the foundation will accomplish through developing leaders, informing policy, and through education. Ultimately, the CBCF envisions a world in which all communities share an equal voice in public policy through leadership cultivation, economic empowerment, and civic exchange, Washington said. “It’s through such things like economic empowerment and public health that we will achieve our goals,” she said, noting that just prior to last year’s conference, the CBCF announced a $5 million donation to five black-owned banks in which the organization hopes will encourage private investment in minority financial institutions. African-American banks have been overlooked and, since the Great Recession, it’s been difficult for them to stay afloat, Washington said. “That [providing the loan] was a big step toward achieving our goal of economic equality because those banks are very important sources of accessible financial services and they are a key to our financially underserved communities,” she said. Continued on Page SS-13

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Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Washington graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Humanities and Social Sciences from the University of South Carolina. In 2008, Washington started her own business, Washington Solutions, LLC, which provided strategic counsel to businesses, governments and nonprofits. She also served as vice president of government affairs and policy and outreach for Altria Corporate Services where she managed the company’s offices in Northwest and in New York. With numerous successes in corporate America already under her belt, Washington went on to hold several positions with the CBCF. Prior to being named as the organization’s president, she sat on the Foundation’s board of directors and corporate advisory council and she also served as the board’s chairwoman. “There’s so much going on and we have to make a difference,” she said. “I recently returned from Beijing, leading our inaugural ‘Marcia L. Fudge Cohort’ on a two-week study program to China. It was something that everyone was excited about and it’s been one of the goals that we’ve had for young African Americans.” With the “Marcia L. Fudge Cohort,” named in honor of the current Congressional Black Caucus chair, the CBCF officials are hoping that the program helps spark interest in AfricanAmerican students to expand their horizons. The journey counted as part of the Foundation’s “Emerging Leaders: U.S.-China Study Abroad Program,” where 19 college students traveled to Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai and studied Chinese history, Mandarin, business and politics for two weeks. For many of the students, it represented their first time traveling on an airplane and abroad. They toured the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City in Beijing and they participated in lectures about China’s economy, education system, and history and United States-China relations.

When the students returned to the United States, many of them said they grew as individuals, gained a new perspective and learned the value of heritage, not only from the people of China, but also an appreciation of their own history, Washington said. “This cohort exemplifies the CBCF’s mission to expand the reach and opportunities for African Americans globally,” she said. “Our hope is that this initiative will increase African American interest in building relationships, careers and study opportunities between the two countries.” Washington, who received an award and recognition earlier this year for being a leader in the region who promotes health, wealth and STEM education for black youth, said this year’s 44th Annual Legislative Conference will have the theme, “It Starts with You.” More than 70 forums on public policy issues facing African Americans will be explored and programs at the conference are designed to measure the strength of individual power in making a

positive change in the black community and the African diaspora, Washington said. During the conference, those in attendance will have an opportunity to interact with industry executives, community leaders, lawmakers and celebrities who are actively engaged with issues affecting the nation’s diverse communities, Fattah said. The conference will feature an on-site employment fair and procurement sessions and the various programs will have critical and collective discourse that will focus on actions to help advance educational opportunities, ensure voting rights and spur wealth creation, said Washington, who now resides in Mitchellville, Maryland. “The conference is the place where we challenge people and ourselves to engage in the difficult conversations about social justice and economic empowerment, among many other issues,” she said. “It begins the hard work of creating sustainable solutions to the issues black people face every day.” n

5 A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, at her desk at the Foundation’s offices on Massachusetts Avenue in Northwest. Photo by Nancy Shia

5 A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, confers with her assistant Tim Pulliam. Photo by Nancy Shia

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Gospel Legend Richard Smallwood Headlines Annual Prayer Breakfast By Michael Duncan: When you think of the biggest stars in gospel music, Richard Smallwood is among the best and brightest. In 2006, the Grammy, Stellar and Dove award-winning songwritersinger was inducted into prestigious Gospel Music Hall of Fame by the Gospel Music Association, putting him in the same company of some of the greatest performers of gospel music. Among them, Elvis Pressley, Mahalia Jackson and Andrae Crouch. This year, Richard Smallwood will share his gift of music at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated’s (CBCF) Annual Prayer Breakfast. Smallwood says he is eager to perform during the non-profit organization’s 44th Annual Legislative Conference. “I’m excited to participate in the Prayer Breakfast once again. It’s always an honor and I am proud to be a part of the Annual Legislative Conference.” Other special guests at the Prayer Breakfast will include Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, Pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church and the Central State Chorus. The Coca-Cola Company is the title sponsor. "Faith has played a historical and essential role in the African-American experience. In times of social and political turmoil, generations of blacks in America have drawn strength from their belief in a divine power,” said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the CBCF. “The Prayer Breakfast is an acknowledgement of how far our faith has brought us and an opportunity for ALC at-

4 Pastor Marvin Sapp delivered the word at last year’s prayer breakfast

(Far right) Richard Smallwood:

tendees to fellowship together before returning to their home communities.” The inspirational high note of the ALC, the Prayer Breakfast was created more than two decades ago by former CBCF Executive Director, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and her late husband, Tom Skinner. Each year since, conference attendees including leaders in business, government, nonprofit and entertainment, have come together in the spirit of unity for a morning of song, praise and reflection. The message of hope will be delivered by Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, Pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church. A native New Yorker, Dr. Butts earned a Master of Divinity in Church History from Union Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate of Ministry in Church and Public Policy from Drew University in Madison, NJ. Musical ministry for the Prayer Breakfast will be provided by the Central State Chorus led by Mr. James Smith. In 1994, the Chorus performed in Washington, D.C. to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Prayer Breakfast starts at 7:30 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center here in the District. n

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Gospel Extravaganza: Annual Event Showcases Southern Gospel Choirs By: Kalyn Hall If you’re a fan of gospel music, get ready to get your praise on! The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) will present the Gospel Extravaganza, at 8 p.m., on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2014 at the United House of Prayer for All People in Washington, D.C. Reps. James E. Clyburn (SC), Bennie G. Thompson (MS), Sanford D. Bishop (GA) and G.K. Butterfield (NC) will serve as honorary event hosts. It is a spiritual reprieve from the social, economic and public policy work that occurs during the Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). "Gospel music is intrinsic to the African-American experience," said A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the CBCF. "From jazz, rock and roll and R&B to modern day rap music, its influence has touched almost every American music genre that followed. The Gospel Extravaganza is a celebration of that tradition and a showcase for some of the South’s most prolific gospel choirs." Gospel music was born of the old Negro spirituals sung as early as the 17th century. Originating from African traditions, its roots are distinctly southern. The Gospel Extravaganza showcases renowned choirs representing the southern districts of African-American members of Congress. Participating groups include: Anointed Bodies of

Christ of Jackson, MS; One Purpose of Sumter, SC; Mt. Zion Baptist Church Praise Team of Albany, GA; and Word Tabernacle Church Choir of Wilson, NC. The Anointed Bodies of Christ (ABoC) of Mississippi was organized in 2008 as a youth ministry. ABoC has performed at regional conferences, summits, local churches and other events. One Purpose is a community choir that represents several churches in Sumter, South Carolina and surrounding areas. The group recently held 2nd Annual Concert, “I Never Shall Forget Gospel Classics.” The Mount Zion Praise Team of Albany, Georgia was founded approximately ten years ago. They are accompanied by an instrumental ensemble. The Praise Team performs at Sunday services and special events. This is their third performance at the Gospel Extravaganza. The Word Tabernacle Church Choir (WTC) is a growing ministry. WTC participated in the Tarboro, NC MLK Day Celebration Walk and The Red Cross Blood Donation Rally, and in 2010, joined choirs across the country for the CNN Choir project performing "The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power," by Andrae Crouch. Gospel Extravaganza is sponsored by Liberty Media, American Gaming Association, ExxonMobil, MGM Resorts International, ABIR & American Peanut Shellers Association. n

9 T H

A N N U A L

COMMUNITY H E A L T H

BREAKFAST F A I R

Thursday, September 25, 2014 | 7:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Central Union Mission | 65 Massachusetts Ave NW. Washington, D.C. Each year, CBCF, CBC members and their spouses serve breakfast and provide clothing, toiletries, health screenings and community resources to more than 200 homeless people in Washington, D.C.

Gospel music is intrinsic to the African-American experience. A. Shuanise Washington President & CEO CBCF

Visit cbcfinc.org/newsletter to sign up for updates.

IT STARTS WITH YOU.

SS~16 / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 44TH ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS SPECIAL ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2014 • WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.

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Why African Americans Are in Desperate Need of Mortgage Help By Marcia Griffin President & Founder, Homefree USA Buying a house or a piece of property to call your own is the American Deam. But, if you’re African American, that dream is becoming further out of reach. Whether you’re a renter trying to buy your first home, a homeowner in need of a modification or you're just trying to get your credit straight, the financial world is more difficult than ever to maneuver. Getting approved for a loan requires up-front money and good credit. Getting a lower mortgage payment requires up-to-date documents, a lot of phone time and almost a law degree to understand what it all means. For African Americans, the mortgage landscape is particularly troublesome. According to sociologists from Rice and Cornell Universities, African Americans are 45 percent more likely than Whites to go from owning homes to renting them. There are many factors contributing to this startling statistic: n African Americans are more likely to lose their homes to foreclosure n African Americans have been targeted more by predatory lenders n African Americans have not been able to save for a down payment (or much else), and often have high debt and lower credit scores Between 2007 and 2010, wealth for Blacks dropped by an average of 31%, home equity dropped 28% and retirement savings dropped 35%. During that same period, Whites lost only 11% in wealth, 24% in home equity and actually gained 9% in retirement savings. Are African Americans destined to fall further behind? While these statistics are grim, they are certainly not insurmountable. "Where there's a will, there's a right way." HomeFree-USA and many other HUD-approved

nonprofit agencies across the country are committed to showing renters, homebuyers and homeowners the right way. We have your best interest at heart and many of our services are FREE. Too many of us suffer because of bad financial choices. We are trusting of others, we tend to procrastinate and have few trusted advisors to ensure that our decisions are sound. Now is the time for us to improve our financial stature. If WE don't, it won't get done!? Some final tips: If you need a loan modification, refinance, credit help, or home buying assistance go to a nonprofit homeownership advisor like HomeFree-USA or go to HUD.GOV for a nationwide network of approved organizations. Don't do it alone. Money and time will be lost if things go wrong. Get help with your credit. Any request for money will require good credit. Any HUDapproved nonprofit can help with that, too. Review your report and get things corrected before you need it. There are a lot of errors in these reports. Set up automatic payments to a savings account (no matter how small) and don’t touch it. You'll be amazed at how much you will amass. The year is almost over! Think about where you are going and how you will get there. Many resources are available but you have to take the first step. HomeFree-USA is a HUDapproved nonprofit organization that specializes in homeownership development, foreclosure intervention and financial empowerment. The HomeFree-USA network of 65 partners represents the interests of 4.5 million consumers. HomeFree-USA enjoys a 0% foreclosure rate among families that have participated in its pre-purchase homeownership program. To learn more, visit http://www.homefreeusa.org/ n

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It Starts With You The conference theme is a continuation of last year’s, “It Starts with You,” which is a call to action designed to inspire individuals to become engaged, active agents for positive change in their communities. Over the course of four days, attendees participate in more than 70 sessions that concentrate on a host of issues, including economic empowerment, civic engagement, education, and health care, to name a few, and nearly 20,000 people actively engage in the conference events. The conference last year was especially motivating and engaging. This year will be no different.

5 A group of attendees discuss issues at a roundtable during one of the many session 4 There is constant movement as conference attendees stroll to another session.

5 4 The ALC meetings are a great place to network.

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Hunger Grows in Our Community Bishop Don DiXon Williams Brothers and sisters, it is with a heavy heart that I have to report that food insecurity remains extremely high, particularly in our community, due to a slow economic recovery. Unemployment in the United States is 6.7 percent. AfricanAmerican unemployment is at 12.0 percent, almost double that of the U.S. population. The best anti-hunger and anti-poverty program is employment. We must urge our government to focus on investing in jobs and not on cutting programs that help those in need. A government investing in creating jobs is also investing in human capital. We must bring

back dignity to those jobs. It is unjust for someone to work two or even three jobs and still not be able to provide for a family. We cannot allow jobs to pay only poverty-level wages especially when productivity in the United States has increased. We all need to remember that workers are human beings and not commodities. It should not be a privilege to take time off when you are not feeling well. If an immediate family member passes, you should not fear asking for time off to mourn the loss. As a society, we say that the family unit is our most important foundation, yet we make parents choose between keeping their jobs and raising their infants. If we truly believe in the dignity of a person, these things should not be benefits but rather the norm.

Employers have an obligation to their workers just as workers have an obligation to their employers. We do not stand for someone cheating and stealing from their employer. Why do we allow some employers to cheat and steal from their employees? As a community, we must tell Congress that we want a fair deal for workers. We want to work and want our brothers and sisters to be able to provide for their families. I pray for the day that we no longer have to create these fact sheets about hunger, the day when hunger is something from the past. As we all pray, act, and give, that day comes closer and closer. Bishop Don DiXon Williams is racial-ethnic outreach at Bread for the World and sits on the Board of Bishops of the United Church of Jesus Christ, Baltimore, Md. n

Unemployment in the United States is 6.7 percent. African-American unemployment is at 12.0 percent, almost double that of the U.S. population. The best anti-hunger and anti-poverty program is employment. We must urge our government to focus on investing in jobs and not on cutting programs that help those in need.

In a world of plenty, hunger is an outrage. Be a part of the solution. One-third of African-American families with children struggle to put food on the table. To learn more about how you can help end hunger, visit www.bread.org.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM â€˘ SEPTEMBER 2014 44TH ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS SPECIAL ISSUE THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / SS~21

CBCF President and CEO Received Prestigious Honor By: Tatiana Noboa This summer, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Incorporated (CBCF) president and chief executive officer, A. Shuanise Washington, received the Washington SmartCEO Brava! Award in recognition of her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for giving back to the community. Washington and 31 other female top female CEOs were honored on July 30 during a high-spirited reception and awards ceremony at Harbour View in Woodbridge, Va. For Washington, leadership is about meeting people where they are by providing strong leadership, context and clarity to help move them forward. In just one year, Washington has broadened the reach of CBCF’s mission to

improve the lives of people of color. Last year, she led the foundation’s $5 million dollar investment in minority-owned banks nationwide. Under her leadership, Washington strengthened relationships with the CBCF stakeholders, increased donor giving and honed the foundation’s business strategy. She also instituted a research arm to focus on public policy analysis and research. “This award reflects the milestones we have accomplished at the CBCF in our efforts to eliminate disparities and advance the socio-economic conditions of African Americans and the black community,” said Washington. “We remain committed to ensuring the Foundation continues its work in the areas of STEM education, public health, economic

The CBCF Leadership Institute for Public Service

developmental and environmental justice. I am honored to receive the Brava! Award on behalf of CBCF.” According to SmartCEO, the awards reception highlights the achievements of 32 of Greater Washington’s top women, championing the winners as visionaries and admirable leaders in their industries and the areas in which they serve. The award recipients are also chosen for their efforts in local philanthropy, support of rising leaders and ability to steer their companies on the path to growth. Each year, an independent committee of local business leaders selects winners based on the quality of applications submitted. For more information about 5 A. Shuanise Washington, president and CEO of the Congressional Black the Brava! Award, visit www. Caucus Foundation, surrounded by awards that sit on a table in her office on smartceo.com n Pepco Washington 50 Anniversary Ad:Layout 1 in6/3/14 Page Massachusetts Avenue Northwest.10:26 / Photo AM by Nancy Shia 1

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The Leadership Institute for Public Service prepares the next generation to take its place in community service and policy development arenas. It's primary goal is to increase the pool of black leaders in community-based programs and public service careers. The Leadership Institute offers numerous educational and leadership development programs for individuals ranging from high school students through young adults (generally ages 40 and under). Participants are provided with opportunities to learn the inner workings of Congress, explore public service and public policy careers, discuss current events and policy initiatives and see close up leadership at its very best by working with and learning from Congressional Black Caucus members. CBCF's internship and fellowship programs prepare college students and young professionals to become principled leaders, skilled policy analysts, and informed advocates by exposing them to the processes by which national policies are developed and implemented on Capitol Hill and in the federal government.

The CBCF Alumni Association For more than 30 years, the CBCF has developed generations of leaders by placing interns and fellows in the offices of Congressional Black Caucus and other Congressional members, on Congressional committees and in federal agencies. The experience gained while working under the guidance of the CBCF has earned alumni key advocacy and legislative positions on Capitol Hill and in federal and local governments, and top public advocacy and private sector positions across the country and around the globe. The CBCF Alumni Association keeps the more than 2,000 alumni connected, provides support to future cohorts of the program, and enhances the mission of the Foundation to develop leaders, inform policy and educate the public For more information on our programs, please call 202-263-2800.

WE ALL HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. We’re proud to support Washington Informer's 50 Year Anniversary.

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GUESS WHOâ€™S

TURNING 50?

The late Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. with daughter and publisher, Denise Rolark-Barnes.

Founded in 1964 by Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr., The Washington Informer has a rich legacy of uplifting our community. 2014 will be a landmark year for the Informer and we want you to be part of it! In anticipation of our upcoming 50th Anniversary Celebration in October 2014, weâ€™ll be hosting events throughout the year. Stay connected with us for details on exciting sponsorship opportunities and ways you can get involved.

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GET ENGAGED. STAY CONNECTED. Every year, CBCF prepares the next generation of leaders by providing internships, fellowships and scholarships to hundreds of students from all over the country. We are able to provide critical programs and research because of the generosity of our donors. Support CBCF today!

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