40th Anniversary Marked by Symposium Honoring “Conscience of Congress”
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) and Howard University will host a day-long symposium to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) from 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., on April 5 at Howard University’s Ira Aldridge Theatre, 2455 Sixth Street, NW Washington. A reception for all symposium attendees will then follow in Founders Library from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Please visit the event website to RSVP.
CBCF is a nonprofit, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization with the charge of advancing the global black community. CBC was founded in 1971 when 13 African-American congressional members joined together to strengthen their efforts to address the legislative concerns of black and minority citizens. Over time, CBC became known as the “Conscience of Congress.”
The symposium will include four panel discussions, covering the four decades of the CBC’s life:
“The CBC has played a major role in the political spectrum during the past 40 years,” said Rep. Donald M. Payne of New Jersey, chairman of CBCF and currently the fifth ranking member in CBC. “From taking the lead in the anti-apartheid movement to its 15-year battle to honor Dr. Martin Luther King with federal recognition of his birthday, to its work in education reform, environmental justice and health parity, CBC’s work has influenced lives beyond its members’ districts and has been instrumental in determining international policy and growth.”
During this day of reflection and exploration, the Foundation and Howard University will invite the public to revisit and reflect on the Caucus’ challenges and victories. “We are proud to partner with Howard University to host this historical commemoration,” said Elsie L. Scott, president and chief executive officer for CBCF.
“As part of our mission to develop leaders and educate the public, this conference can serve as an educational tool for Howard and other college students to learn more about how the legislative process works and what can and cannot be accomplished through legislation. This conference builds upon the collaboration already taking place between Howard and CBCF to capture legislative history through our online library – Avoice (African American Voices in Congress). Students, researchers, educators and others from around the world are accessing information on CBC and its work at www.avoiceonline.org.
Presentations will be made by former and current CBC members, Howard University scholars, and researchers. Since his involvement was central to the establishment of the CBC and he continued to advise the members, a portion of the day will be set aside for a posthumous tribute to political analyst, former Howard University professor and CBCF Academic Advisory Council Member Dr. Ronald Walters.
“Howard University is excited about the opportunity to partner with and host the CBC’s milestone anniversary celebration,” said Howard University President Sidney A. Ribeau. “Our nation has made significant strides in the last 40 years. Much of it would not have been possible without the leadership and vision of the Congressional Black Caucus.”
Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 12 schools and colleges. Founded in 1867, students pursue studies in more than 120 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. Since 1998, the University has produced two Rhodes Scholars, two Truman Scholars, a Marshall Scholar, 21 Fulbright Scholars and 11 Pickering Fellows. Howard also produces more on campus African-American Ph.D. recipients than any other university in the United States.
To register for the symposium please visit the registration form.