May 11, 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” As leaders in today’s Civil Rights Movement, we stand behind the President Obama’s belief that same sex couples should be allowed to join in civil marriages. We also affirm that individuals may hold different views on this issue but still work together towards our common goals: fair housing and equitable education, affordable health care and eradicating poverty, all issues of deep and abiding concern for our communities.

President Obama stated his view that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry. This is a view that we concur with, because as civil rights leaders we cannot fight to gain rights for some and not for all. At the same time, we acknowledge that the President stated his personal opinion, which everyone is entitled to – both those who agree with him, like us, and those who disagree. The President made clear that his support is for civil marriage for same-sex couples, and he is fully committed to protecting the ability of religious institutions to make their own decisions about their own sacraments.

There will be those who seek to use this issue to divide our community. As a people, we cannot afford such division. It is our hope that conversations on strengthening African American families continue in a civil and respectful way, on all sides, both with those who support the ability of same-sex couples to marry, and those who do not.

We are glad that President Obama has joined Dr. Joseph Lowery, Dr. Julian Bond and so many others in full embrace of equality for gay and lesbian individuals in our country. We also welcome the civil debate on this issue that will surely spring. And we encourage all individuals to keep all issues of import to our communities in mind in the days ahead, and we seek to secure equal justice, opportunity and dignity for all God’s children.

Reverend Al Sharpton
President & Founder, National Action Network

Julian Bond
Chairman Emeritus of NAACP

Melanie Campbell
President and CEO of the National Coalition for Black Civic Engagement

Reverend Dr. Joseph Lowery Civil Rights Icon and President Emeritus of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference

"We want to make sure to honor some of the young people that are doing the work in addition to recognizing the stellar individuals and organizations that work to mentor and train our men. Jonathan and Joshua are young leaders in technology and public service," said Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition.

"Demetria is a rising star in music and film. She is known for her acting talent, but she is also an accomplished vocalist and does positive work with youth. I'm looking forward to her electrifying performance," said Jessica Brown, national field coordinator, Black Youth Vote, The National Coalition's youth civic engagement initiative.

Best known for her role as "Janine Payne" on the NAACP award-winning sitcom "Tyler Perry's House of Payne," McKinney started out in the stage play, "Meet the Browns" and went on to star in several other Tyler Perry plays including "What's Done In The Dark" and "Why Did I Get Married." She also held lead roles in "Church Girl" and portrayed Mrs. Coretta Scott King in the musical, "I Dream." McKinney's hit single "Take Away" is available on iTunes and her debut CD is due out later this year.

Honorees are Michael Baisden, Gerald Hudson, Al Dotson, Jonathan McDaniel, David Honig, and Shawn Dove

With the theme, "Celebrating Our Brothers," the remaining 2012 Spirit of Democracy honorees are Gerald Hudson, executive vice president, Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Michael Baisden, nationally syndicated radio personality, author, and activist; Al Dotson, chairman of the board, 100 Black Men of America; Shawn Dove, campaign manager, Campaign for Black Male Achievement, Open Society Foundations; and David Honig, founder and president, Minority Media and Telecommunications Council. There will also be a tribute to Ruby Campbell Pulliam.

The Spirit of Democracy Awards are sponsored by AT&T and Verizon, among others. Individual ticket prices are $175. For more information call 202 659-4929 or visit www.ncbcp.org to purchase online.

Washington, DC - Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition), today announced the recipients of the prestigious 2012 Spirit of Democracy Awards which will be presented during the 15th annual Spirit of Democracy Awards Gala hosted by actress and producer, Vivica A. Fox (Set It Off, Kill Bill, Soul Food), onThursday May 17, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill. Reception starts at 6:00 p.m. and the Gala Dinner will begin at 7:00 p.m. For ticket information call (202) 659-4929 or email events@ncbcp.org.

Honorees are Michael Baisden, nationally syndicated radio personality, author, philanthropist, and social activist instrumental in exposing the Trayvon Martin case; Al Dotson, chairman of the board, 100 Black Men of America; Shawn Dove, campaign manager, Campaign for Black Male Achievement, Open Society Foundations; Gerald Hudson, executive vice president, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and David Honig, founder and president, Minority Media and Telecommunications Council.

Vivica A. Fox - Hostess of the Spirit of Democracy Awards Gala

"This year we are proud to be 'Celebrating Our Brothers.' The leadership of these men in their respective fields helps to empower underserved communities across the country" said Campbell. "These strong, positive men also set an example of excellence in achievement for young brothers across the country."

There will also be a special tribute to the late Ruby Campbell Pulliam who was a servant leader in civil rights and women's rights.

The Spirit of Democracy Awards are presented to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to creating balance in the democratic process and support The Nation Coalition's mission and vision of making civic participation a cultural responsibility and tradition. Sponsors include AT&T and Verizon, among others. The event is open to the public. Individual ticket prices are $175. For tickets or more information call 202 659-4929 or visit www.ncbcp.org to purchase online.

On behalf of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, I commend Trayvon Martin's parents, Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton, for their courage and unwavering conviction to stand for justice for their son and for all of the black men and boys whose names we will never know that have been victims of racial profiling.

The nation still mourns the senseless loss of Trayvon. With the arrest of his alleged killer we are optimistic that the wheels of justice will prevail. By charging George Zimmerman with second-degree murder in the shooting of Trayvon- an unarmed teenager returning from the store with snacks -Floridaspecial prosecutor Angela Corey has let the world know that America values the life of a black teenager.

We also support the decision of the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the Sanford Police Departments handling of this case.

Since 2008, there has been a wave of new laws that block access to the ballot box. The Brennan Center for Justice estimates five million eligible voters could be disenfranchised by the voting law changes. The most onerous restriction requires voters to present an official photo ID in order to vote. The new requirements have left voters scrambling to produce the documents they need to obtain a “free” photo ID or guessing whether their ID will be accepted at the polls.

“The Cost of Freedom App provides information on photo ID requirements for all 50 states and the District of Columbia,” said Faye M. Anderson, Chief Evangelist for the Cost of Freedom Project. “Election Day is less than seven months away. It’s not enough to take a stand against voter suppression. We must help voters get ready. The Cost of Freedom App jump starts the application process for voters who lack an official photo ID.”

Anderson added: “There is widespread confusion about acceptable forms of ID. Pennsylvania, the most recent state added to the Election Protection Coalition’s Map of Shame, has the third largest student population in the nation. Yet most student IDs will not be accepted because they do not have expiration dates. The Cost of Freedom App empowers students with information to ensure their voices are heard.”

Voters in strict photo ID states can text “Voter ID” to:

Voters in non-photo ID states can text their state abbreviation to 202-609-7909.

Callers in, for example, Ohio will receive this message: No photo ID required. To check your voter registration and polling place location, visit http://bit.ly/OHVoter or call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.

Black Youth Vote, a signature program of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, has partnered with the Cost of Freedom Project. BYV will promote the Cost of Freedom App through their website, social media and traditional voter education materials.

“Voter ID is a priority issue for young voters because we are disproportionately impacted,” said Illai Kenney, Black Youth Vote Fellow. “In Wisconsin, for instance, 78 percent of black men and 66 percent of black women between the ages of 18 and 24 do not have a driver’s license. For us, it’s about having our voices heard. It’s about our future.”

“We are not acquiescing to voter suppression,” said William Kellibrew IV, Deputy Director of The National Coalition. “Instead, we are fighting back against the attack on our voting rights wherever they are being attacked. That means we must continue to educate voters about the acceptable forms of ID. While we push back against these unjust laws at the Justice Department and in the courts, we must help voters obtain a voter ID. We can’t wait until September to get ready. By then, it will be too late. The app is an excellent tool in our arsenal to reach out to the youth.”

The Cost of Freedom App is powered by Twilio. It was developed by Jack Aboutboul, API Evangelist at Twilio. Aboutboul said: “As a sponsor of civic hackathons across the country, Twilio is committed to supporting ‘doers doing good.’ The Cost of Freedom App will help citizens exercise a fundamental right of our democracy.”

About Cost of Freedom Project: The Cost of Freedom Project stems from the Random Hacks of Kindness hackathon at Drexel University. The citizen-led initiative also is developing a web-based app to provide county-level information on how to get a voter ID. The alpha version of the web-based Cost of Freedom App will be launched in late April. For more information, visit Facebook.com/CostofFreedom.

About Black Youth Vote: Launched on April 4, 1996, Black Youth Vote is a national grassroots coalition of organizations and individuals committed to increasing civic engagement among black youth and young adults between the ages of 18 and 35. BYV identifies campus and community-based organizations and engages their youth leaders to foster civic engagement, including issue education, voter registration and voter protection. For more information, visit www.ncbcp.org/programs/byv.

About Twilio: Twilio, Inc. is a cloud communications company based in San Francisco. Twilio is a web-service API that lets software developers use existing web languages and skills to build voice and SMS applications. For more information, visit www.twilio.com.

Media contacts: Faye Anderson Cost of Freedom Project 718-369-6059 costoffreedomproject@gmail.com @andersonatlarge

Michael SelvidgeTwilio415-350-3091michael@twilio.com@selviano

Washington, DC - The slaying of Trayvon Martin and other innocent teens was foremost on the hearts and minds of nearly 400 Black women from across the country that assembled recently in Washington, DC for the Black Women's Roundtable (BWR) inaugural National Women of Power Summit, three days of down-to-earth discussions "Amplifying the Voices of Women and Girls in 2012 and Beyond."

"It is important for the world to hear the voices of Black women from all walks of life on the Trayvon Martin issue and other issues that impact our community," said Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition) and convener of BWR. "We are mothers, sisters, aunts and wives of Black men being gunned down on the streets. Enough is Enough. Our voice will be heard today and on Election Day."

To help amplify the voices of the physicians, lawyers, homemakers, labor workers and other attendees, the summit was broadcast live on the Internet (view at: http://tinyurl.com/744254g). Also, during a town hall and rally calling for the arrest of Trayvon's killer, a WUSA reporter aptly captured remarks from participants. Emotions were high as several BWR members were just arriving from protests on Trayvon's behalf in Sanford, Florida. Watch the video at (http://tinyurl.com/83ajt6v).

A kick-off prayer breakfast and civic engagement training featured Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Hale, founder and Senior Pastor, Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, Georgia, who clearly articulated the need for women to come together as our sister's keepers.

"African American women have higher rates of disease and health problems than any other women in the nation... We should be concerned that Black women are more likely to be uninsured because we can't afford it... We need the Affordable Care Act," said Rev. Hale. She continued, "We must stand up, speak up, and not shut up until we turn this thing around."

During her opening remarks for the BWR Mentor/Protégé Luncheon and BWR Leadership Awards, Susan L. Taylor, founder and of CEO of National CARES Mentoring Movement told the standing room only crowd, "The village is on fire and we are the healing waters that our children are screaming for. We don't have to do what Sojourner truth did... what Harriet Tubman, Mary McCloud Bethune or even Dorothy Height did. We just have to think critically, have an agenda and stand behind it. Number one is voting rights."

Honored for their innovating and unwavering commitment to mentoring young aspiring leaders and for their exemplary civil rights, voting rights, women's rights and social justice BWR Leadership Award recipients were: Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, National Council of Negro Women; Tamika Mallory, National Action Network; Thomasina Williams, Sankofa Legacy Fund; Tanya Leah Lombard accepting for AT & T; Honorable Barbara L. Ballard, National Black Caucus of State Legislators; Eleanor Hinton Hoytt, Black Women's Health Imperative; Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, Skinner Leadership Institute/The Masters Series; Barbara Arnwine, Esq., Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law; and Chanelle P. Hardy, Esq., National Urban League

Heather Foster, associate director of The White House Office of Public Engagement gave an update on White House activities of importance to Black women followed by public policy panels on Jobs and Economic Opportunity, Workers' Rights, the Affordable Care Act Two Years Later, and technology and broadband expansion and access in urban and rural Black communities.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson told the group that the EPA should be on their radar because, "the air that we breathe every day has an impact on our health and an even greater impact on the health of our children. The water we drink has an enormous impact on whether a community can be prosperous."

Other BWR summit highlights include an International Diaspora conversation lead by Rev. Marcia Dyson, an international panel with Nicole Lee of TransAfrica, voter protection and mobilization trainings, and daily health walks and exercise sessions. Inspirational speakers included Dee Marshall of Girlfriends Pray, MESHELLE the Indie Mom of Comedy, Command Sgt. Maj. (ret) Michele Jones, director of the External Veterans/Military Affairs and Community Outreach for President Barack Obama's administration, and Dr. Julianne Malveaux, president Bennett College for Women.

Nearly one hundred local teens from D.C. metropolitan area - many from Maryland-based Teen Sircles led by Sharon Cummings - joined the national youth for Community Day festivities held at First Congregational United Church of Christ.

"We had a health fair and mini expo, health panels as well as financial planning and entrepreneur workshops," said Dr. Patricia Hobson, co-chair of BWR local host committee. "There were also several teen entrepreneurs on hand to talk about starting and maintaining their businesses."

Made possible by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and AT&T Foundation, the summit was the culminating event for a national BWR Healthy Wealthy and Wise Tour that traveled the country promoting a healthy, wealthy and wise lifestyle and educating and uplifting underserved women and girls.

Black Women's Roundtable is an intergenerational network of The National Coalition bringing together diverse women to motivate Black women to engage in all levels of civil society. The National Coalition is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in underserved communities. For more information visit www.ncbcp.org.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa Jackson speaks to women and girls during a public policy briefing at the BWR National Summit in DC.

Women and girls are moved to their feet during the prayer breakfast and civic engagement training during the BWR National Summit in DC.

Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale moved the crowd speaking to women and girls at the BWR National Summit in DC. Pictured (L - R) Rev. Hale, Ray of Hope Christian Church; Rev. Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, National African American Clergy Network; Rev. Leah Daughtry; Rev. Dr. Judith C. Moore, First A.M.E. Church Clariton, PA.

MORE PHOTOS LOCATED AT: https://picasaweb.google.com/dogonvillage/BWRNationalSummit#

“We support the US Department of Justice's decision to oppose the law passed in Texas last year requiring voters to show a photo ID, and hope that similar laws passed in other states are also struck down. While these restrictive voter ID laws are being passed under the guise of preventing voter fraud, states passing these discriminatory laws have not provided evidence of significant instances of in-person voter fraud that would justify the changes.

“We appreciate and commend the Justice Department for their due diligence in recognizing the voter ID laws for exactly what they are – a ploy to disenfranchise American voters. These new voting rights laws that are popping up around the country are merely a tactic to circumvent the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and apply a modern-day poll tax. The Texas voter ID law would have put an unfair burden on poor, minority and disabled voters, students and senior citizens and could have resulted in preventing thousands of citizens from exercising their right to vote. We thank the Justice Department’s civil rights division for their commitment to protecting the integrity of the democratic process.

“As courts across the country review and dispute these new laws, The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Black Women’s Roundtable Power of the Sister Vote, and our youth initiative, Black Youth Vote!, will continue our efforts to alert the black community about new voting laws, educate them on the issues, and encourage them to vote absentee, early, or on Election Day.”

WASHINGTON, DC-- Congresswoman Rep. Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11), in collaboration with Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD-5), Rep. John Conyers (MI-14), and Rep. John Lewis (GA-5) and in partnership with the Congressional Black Caucus, will host a Voting Rights Briefing, The Evolution of Voting Rights in America: The Struggle Continues, on Friday, February 17 at 1:30p.m. in recognition of Black History Month.

In the last year, state governments across the country implemented laws making it harder for Americans to register or to vote:

"The disenfranchisement of eligible voters is one of the most pressing issues facing our nation. Changing voting laws to exclude a certain segment of the population is wrong and must not be tolerated. Proponents of suppressive laws say that fraud and cost drive the need for election reforms, but by looking at the kinds of reforms proposed, it is easy to tell the laws have only one true purpose: to suppress predetermined segments of the population. Limiting early voting periods, changing registration processes, eliminating Sunday voting, and limiting vote by mail will make it more difficult for young people, minorities, the disabled, seniors, and individuals with past criminal convictions to exercise their right to vote," said Congresswoman Fudge.

Date: Friday, February 17, 2012 Time: 1:30p.m.-3:30p.m. Location: Cannon Caucus Room (Cannon 345) *members are scheduled to speak at the beginning of the event

The briefing will include a state-by-state analysis of new laws and the impact of laws on the 2012 election with a focus on specific constituencies, including minorities, seniors, disabled, students, and individuals with past criminal convictions.

Expert panelists will be in attendance from:

Moderated by The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Presentations will last until about 2:30pm. At least 45 minutes will be reserved for a question and answer session.

Congresswoman Fudge has been an outspoken advocate for ensuring that every eligible American maintains the right to vote.

“We want to see women and girls of all ages to come together to share problems and information and support one another in sisterhood,” said Salandra Benton, convener of The Florida Coalition on Black Civic Participation, a local affiliate of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. “The Listening Sessions allow women and girls to have candid discussions in an intimate environment about issues that impact their lives.”

Over 100 Black women and girls will come together for a mini-expo, a walk of love for Cancer and HIV, and round table listening sessions addressing violence against women and girls, healthy living, jobs, and wealth. There will also be a special tribute to BWR members and Mims natives, Ruby Campbell Pulliam and Adrienne and the day will end with a rally and tour of the Moore Replica Home where Harry T. Moore and his wife were bombed on Christmas day.

In addition to Fox, speakers include: Melanie L. Campbell, BWR National Convener; Honorable Michael Blake, Mayor of Cocoa, FL; and Carolyn Thompson, Advancement Project.

“The goal of this national tour is to personally connect with smaller groups of women in underserved communities,” said Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of the *National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. “We provide experts in technology, finance and other areas as well as wonderful inspirational speakers like actress, singer and activist, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Susan L. Taylor of Cares Mentoring, and Clayola Brown president of A. Philip Randolph Institute.”

Vivica A. Fox’s feature film credits include "Kill Bill," "Independence Day," "Soul Food," "Batman and Robin," "Kingdom Come," “Set It Off,” and "Juwanna Mann." On the small screen, Fox co-executive produced and starred in the one-hour drama series "Missing," and appeared on the third season of "Dancing With The Stars." She also teamed up with VH1 to executive produce and find the next great celebrity stylist in the reality series "Glam God."

The BWR National Tour is made possible by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Florida BWR local partners include: Advancement Project; A. Philip Randolph Institute/Space Coast Chapter; American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations/Space Coast; Brevard County Park and Recreation; Coalition of Black Trade Unionists; and Florida Black Youth Vote! The group is also gearing up travel to the BWR National Summit in Washington, DC March 23-24, 2012.

Black Women’s Roundtable is an intergenerational women’s network of The National Coalition, a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in Black and underserved communities. For more information visit www.ncbcp.org.

“Last night President Obama eloquently delivered a State of the Union Address that provided a blueprint to restore hope and opportunity for all Americans to not only dream the American dream, but to actually achieve it.”

Photo By: Associated Press

“The President told us to imagine what America could accomplish as a nation if we followed the lead of our Armed Forces and work together. He said, ‘Think about the America within our reach: A country that leads the world in educating its people. An America that attracts a new generation of high-tech manufacturing and high-paying jobs. A future where we’re in control of our own energy, and our security and prosperity aren’t so tied to unstable parts of the world. An economy built to last, where hard work pays off, and responsibility is rewarded.’

“The blueprint the President offered is what we all should strive to provide for future generations. I know we can accomplish this vision because - like the President said - we have certainly done it before.

Eight states have passed laws that require voters to show IDs at the polls. | AP Photo

“It is time to ask: What kind of nation and what kind of people do we want to be? Are we willing to allow this era — our era — to be remembered as the age when our nation’s proud tradition of expanding the franchise ended?” Holder said in a speech at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in Austin, Texas.

This year, eight states have passed laws that require voters to show identification at the polls. Two of those states, South Carolina and Texas, need so-called pre-clearance from the Justice Department or a court, which has not yet been granted. Some states are also rolling back early voting options and adding new registration procedures, while others are imposing rules that could make it more difficult for college students and the elderly to vote.

Critics complain that the measures will have a disproportionate impact on minorities and the poor and are aimed at suppressing turnout of voters who tend to support Democrats. Supporters generally cite a need to fight fraud, though some have on occasion admitted seeking to discourage voting by specific groups, such as students.

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“On behalf of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation’s Black Women's Roundtable, we would like to commend BET Networks for their decision to add award-winning journalist and television personality, T.J. Holmes to the BET lineup. Mr. Holmes is highly respected in the African American community for his professionalism and outstanding news coverage.

“BET Networks appears to be making a much-needed transition to portraying more positive images of African Americans. I hope that the addition of Mr. Holmes will result in news and public affairs television programming covering critical issues challenging the African-American community. We look forward to watching Mr. Holmesʼ new show and hope to see more positive programming as BET continues to expand their offerings to appeal to a broader, more diverse audience.”

ABOUT BLACK WOMEN’S ROUNDTABLE

Black Women’s Roundtable is a women’s network of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in Black and underserved communities. The Black Women’s Roundtable network comprises an intergenerational membership of Black women civic leaders of international, national, regional and state-based organizations and institutions that works collectively to advance policies and strategic initiatives that help to improve the lives of underserved women and girls. BWR members work in a wide range of social justice, civic, corporate, labor, academic, women and youth organizations.

PRESS RELEASEFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Edrea DavisPhone: 818.613.9521Email: edmedia@dogonvillage.com

Washington, D.C. -- African Americans are the largest number of populations, nationwide, who are unvaccinated against the flu. The Assembly of Petworth, a District collaborative that uses grassroots strategies to address critical health issues impacting African Americans, Hispanics, and other ethnic groups suffering health disparities, has joined with the D.C. Department of Health, United Planning Organization, and the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation to host a press conference, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on Friday, Dec. 2 to mark National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), December 4-10.

The press conference and a mini-free flu vaccination clinic, that runs from 12 noon to 3 p.m., will occur at the United Planning Organization "Petey" Greene Community Service Center, 2907 Martin Luther King Ave. in Southeast.

A diverse group of experts, including Dr. Mohammad Akhter, director, D.C. Department of Health, Dr. Yabo Beysolow, medical officer, CDC, and Diane Freeman, aging services specialist, Department of Health and Human Services, will highlight the importance of continuing the flu vaccination through the holiday season and beyond.

Socio-economic indicators show Ward 8, where the Petey Greene Center is located, as having major African American health challenges and high death rates. "Influenza is among the top ten causes of death in a population where certain long-term medical conditions, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, neurological conditions, obesity, HIV or AIDS, and cancer, to name some diseases, have become norm," says Ray Michael Bridgewater, Assembly of Petworth founder.

Experts will discuss the impact the flu has on individuals with chronic illnesses as well as young children and the elderly. "No doubt it takes each of us, working collaboratively, to change current health conditions that plague our community. This is the first campaign of its kind, and the time is now for such a bold initiative," Bridgwater concludes.

The D.C. campaign is one of 15 across the country, targeting African Americans, and using grassroots engagement. The campaign is the Centers for Disease Control's response to a growing health issue among at-risk populations. Other sites where mini-flu clinics will occur in December will be announced later.

For additional information on the press conference, free vaccinations, or the campaign, contact Ray Michael Bridgewater at 202-882-5782 or Delores Millhouse, UPO, at 202-238-4719.

The press conference and a mini-free flu vaccination clinic was held at the United Planning Organization “Petey” Greene Community Service Center in Southeast DC.

Campaign Stresses Importance of Flu Vaccinations Among African Americans in D.C.

Washington, D.C. -- African Americans are the largest number of populations, nationwide, who are unvaccinated against the flu.

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Accepting an award for her civil and woman's rights work, Samuels told the young people "Don't ever give up on your dream." Samuels grew up poor in Forsyth Georgia but went on to work alongside Dr. Martin L. King, Jr., served at the White House under President Jimmy Carter, and founded Georgia Coalition for Black Women.

Mayor Dixon shared a riveting story of growing up in segregated Atlanta, a bitter divorce, eviction and surviving homeless as a single parent of five kids. "When my husband left me I became homeless and even suicidal. But at the lowest point in my life I found the courage to pick myself up and refused to let adversity hold me back," said Dixon who started community college at 35-years-old and earned a PhD at 50.

Energizing the audience with her knack for keeping it real, Fox, the co-star of "Kill Bill" and "Kingdom Come", urged the women to take charge of their own life and addressed ageism against women in Hollywood. "My agents told me there aren't roles for Black women over 40 in Hollywood. I asked, have you forgotten I had Independence Day with Will Smith? Have you forgot I set it off with Queen Latifa and Jada Pinkett? Or that I played the game with Morris Chestnut? Fox continued, "I regrouped and took hold of the 'business' side of 'show business' and began producing films, stage plays and TV shows. I even have my own hair line Vivica A. Fox Wigs. Don't let nobody tell you what you can't do."

McKinney, who plays Janine Payne on Tyler Perry's House of Payne and recently released her debut CD, "Get Yo Ish", kept the down-to-earth tone as she outlined her rocky road to success. The single mother told the audience she had to drop out of college to raise her son. "I got a job waiting tables and moved to the projects but I never gave up. African American women are called and have to be the backbone for a lot. That doesn't mean there won't be obstacles. But remember, the situation doesn't make you," said McKinney, who was accompanied by the former EVP of Tyler Perry Studio's and CEO of Bobbcat Films, Roger Bobb.

A 19-year-old single mother attending with her two-year-old daughter in tow, Jazamin McCurdy, was excited to interact one-on-one with the speakers. "I feel so motivated to make positive changes in my life. The panel discussions helped me understand what I need to do and the stories from the speakers helped realize that I can do it."

In addition to the Sista-2-Sister Talk, there was a mini-expo, panels on domestic violence, economic health, politics, technology access and a fitness session led by Eshe of Arrested Development. Physicians from the Centers for Disease Control addressed health issues and pharmacists from Walgreens Pharmacy administered flu shots and donated vouchers for free flu shots.

Opening night of the three-day-event included a BWR Listening session hosted by Fire Chief Rosemary Cloud, the first African American female fire chief in the country. On Sunday the women attended services at Olivet Baptist Church in Fayetteville where they held aspecial tribute to BWR members Ruby Campbell-Pulliam and Adrienne Dennis.

"The Listening Session allowed women and girls to have a candid discussion about issues that impact their lives," said Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, the local coordinating partner for the event. "Issues ranged from no job, food or housing, to violence in their home and community. I am happy that we were able to provide valuable resources to the women."

According to Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition) and convener of The Black Women's Roundtable, "The goal of this national tour is to personally connect with women and girls in underserved communities. We decided to host the event on the south side of Atlanta because many women that are struggling to maintain can't make it into downtown Atlanta."

The BWR Tour traveled to ten cities featuring inspirational women like actress/singer/activist, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Susan L. Taylor, Cares Mentoring, and Clayola Brown, A. Philip Randolph Institute, and will culminate with a national event in Washington, DC. The tour is made possible by the W.F. Kellogg Foundation. BWR Atlanta sponsors include: AT&T, Verizon Foundation and the U. S. Department of Agriculture.

Convened by Dr. Joseph E Lowery, the Atlanta-based Coalition for the Peoples Agenda works throughout Georgia to support and establish coalitions in the Southeast states. Black Women's Roundtable is an intergenerational women's network of The National Coalition, a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in Black and underserved communities. For more information on The National Coalition log on to www.ncbcp.org.

"So many organizations host their events inside the Atlanta city limits, we decided to take our healthy message to the underserved communities outside of I-285," said Melanie L. Campbell, president & CEO of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition) and convener of The Black Women's Roundtable. "The south side of town proved the perfect gathering place for our event."

Campbell continues, "The BWR Tour is traveling the country, bringing together black women from all professions to give love, information and inspiration to those who need it. It is important for us to go where we are needed, as opposed to where it is most convenient. This is about women making themselves accessible and available to each other."

Confirmed speakers include: actress and producer, Vivica A. Fox (Independence Day, Kill Bill); Demetria McKinney (Tyler Perry's House of Payne); Melanie L. Campbell; East Point Fire Chief Rosemary Cloud; Riverdale Mayor Evelyn Winn Dixon; Actress Kellie Williams (Family Matters); Recording Artists OMG; representatives from the Centers for Disease Control; and Walgreen Pharmacists will be on hand to administer free flu shots.

"The Atlanta community is happy to partner with local and national organizations to address issues that impact underserved women and girls. We will have a lot of fun while providing tools that help them to live healthier, more productive lives," adds Helen Butler, executive director of the Georgia Coalition for The Peoples Agenda, the local coordinating partner for the event. "Our schedule includes a Listening Session, Let's Move Dance, a mini-expo, and healthy food demonstrations. We will also lift up Melanie L. Campbell's sisters who helped develop BWR Tour, Ruby Campbell-Pulliam and Adrienne Dennis."

BWR Tour highlights include:

The BWR National Empowerment Tour is made possible by the W.F. Kellogg Foundation, established in 1930 to support children, families and communities as they create conditions that propel vulnerable children to achieve success. BWR Atlanta Tour sponsors include: AT&T, Verizon Foundation and the U. S. Department of Agriculture. The BWR Tour has traveled to cities in LA, MS, AL, MI, PA and FL with a goal of reaching 10,000 women and girls over the course of the tour

Convened by Dr. Joseph E Lowery, the Atlanta-based Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, is active throughout the state of Georgia and works to support and establish state coalitions in the Southeast states.

Black Women's Roundtable is an intergenerational network of The National Coalition bringing together diverse women to motivate Black women to engage in all levels of civil society. The National Coalition is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in Black and underserved communities. Current initiatives of the organization include Black Youth Vote! and the Unity 2012 Voter Empowerment Campaign. For more information on The National Coalition log on to http://www.ncbcp.org.

"We have everything we need at our fingertips to do what God is calling us to do, and that is stand together on purpose, with purpose, and demand respect and justice for our children, our men, for our people," continued Taylor, founder of Cares Mentoring and editor-in-chief emeritus of Essence Magazine.

Held during the CBCF Annual Legislative Conference, the forum brought together women leaders - from grassroots organizers to college presidents - to highlight the critical role Black women play in the election and unveil the policy priorities for women of the Black Diaspora going forward. d.

"Black women are potentially the single most powerful voting block in the upcoming election," said Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of the The National Coalition and convener of Black Women's Roundtable. "Pew Research Center reported that among all racial, ethnic and gender groups, Black women had the highest voter turnout rate in the 2008 presidential election. Also, Black women have a strong influence on their children, parents and Black men. We are determined to leverage our collective political power in 2012 and beyond."

There were four separate panels during three-hour forum: jobs, justice, equality and political power. Dr. Julianne Malveaux, president of Bennett College for Women and renowned economist, stopped by with her arsenal of statistics related to the unemployment rate.

"When you look at the data of those who have not been counted, you're talking 16% unemployment for everyone, 29% for African American's, and 32 % for African American men. These are depression level unemployment rates," Malveaux said. "The President's jobs plan is a step in the right direction and he should be applauded for that. But it's not enough."

AFL-CIO executive vice president, Arlene Holt-Baker, called for the women to mobilize to stop the attacks on union members by people who are determined to roll-back the progress made by unions. She urged the women not to back down on the fight for workers' rights.

Tonya Clay House, director of public policy for Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law, displayed their compelling "Map of Shame," an interactive map that illustrates states that are enacting suppressive legislation (like restrictive voter ID laws) that will disenfranchise many voters including minorities, low-income persons, senior citizens, voters with disabilities and students.

Other panelists included: Dr. Elsie Scott, CBCF; Chanelle Hardy, National Urban League Policy Institute; Felicia Davis, UNCF Building Green Initiative; Tamika Mallory, National Action Network; Senator Catherine Pugh, NBCSL; Letetia Daniels-Jackson, NCBCP Unity 2012; Dr. Claire Nelson, Institute of Caribbean Studies; Carol Joyner, Labor Project for Working Families; Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, NCNW; Rev. Barbara Williams-Skinner, National Black Clergy Network; and Tracy Sturdivant, State Voices, among others. Makani Themba-Nixon, The Praxis Project, served as moderator.

Black Women's Roundtable is an intergenerational civic engagement network of The National Coalition bringing together women representing diverse views and interests within the Black and community around the theme of women's advancement with a particular focus on motivating Black women to engage in all levels of civil society. The National Coalition is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement in Black and underserved communities. Current initiatives of the organization include Black Youth Vote! and the Unity 2012 Voter Empowerment Campaign.

WASHINGTON, DC – (June 24, 2011): The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition), The William Kellibrew Foundation (WKF), Black Youth Vote! (BYV! ) and Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) join Kenny Barnes, Sr., M.S., Founder and CEO of Reaching Out To Others Together (R.O.O.T. Inc.) on CBS Radio on 1580 AM Big Talker Radio every fourth Tuesday from 8-9 a.m. (ET) starting on Tuesday, June 28th, 2011. The groups announce its partnership to engage the community in civic engagement, violence prevention and intervention in a dynamic radio talk show “Community in Action”. The radio show feature co-hosts Kenny Barnes, Melanie L. Campbell, president & CEO, the National Coalition and William Kellibrew IV, deputy director, the National Coalition and president, the William Kellibrew Foundation. Listens and callers can dial in at 301.794.5150. Simulcast Online Live At http://washington.cbslocal.com/

“This is a perfect union for ‘Community in Action’ to join with The National Coalition and the Kellibrew Foundation to co-host this radio show.” said Barnes, “It’s truly an honor for me.”

The first segment will start with ‘Melanie’s Corner’, co-hosted by Melanie Campbell and Kenny Barnes, focusing on the 2012 presidential election and what’s at stake for African Americans, Black immigrants and other underserved communities. Each month, Melanie’s Corner will feature experts and guests from across the nonprofit, civil, human, and women’s rights, corporate, labor, entertainment and other arenas addressing women and girls’ empowerment, civil rights, technology, and other critical public policy issues affecting the Diaspora.

“As we approach Presidential Election 2012, we must engage our community in every possible way.” said Melanie L. Campbell, president & CEO of The National Coalition. “Now more than ever, it is time to organize and leverage our vote in order for elected officials to be held accountable to the interests impacting our communities’ daily lives.”

The second segment will be hosted by Deven Anderson, William Kellibrew and Kenny Barnes, focusing on civic engagement, technology and social innovation, and other issues affecting Black youth through Black Youth Vote!, a program of The National Coalition.

The final segment, ‘Surviving and Thriving’, co-hosted by William Kellibrew IV, Brandon Wallace, executive director & CEO, WKF and Kenny Barnes, will focus on issues such as poverty, youth, gang, gun and domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, children’s exposure to violence and victimization, education, mentoring and other issues and needs affecting the community. The segment will feature experts and guests from many backgrounds.

“In order to address the issues we are faced with in our community, we need a collective, coordinated and proactive approach.” said Kellibrew, “This is an excellent forum for starting to understand the many issues we grapple with as a society and knowing what they are is half the battle.”
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About The National Coalition of Black Civic Participation The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to increasing civic engagement and voter participation in Black and underserved communities. The National Coalition strives to create an enlightened community by engaging people in all aspects of public life through service/volunteerism, advocacy, leadership development and voting. www.ncbcp.org

About The William Kellibrew Foundation
The William Kellibrew Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. The foundation is a resource for people and institutions committed to breaking the cycles of violence and poverty with a special focus on families, women and children. www.theWKFoundation.org

About Black Youth Vote! (BYV!)
(BYV!) is a national grassroots coalition of organizations and individuals committed to increasing political and civic engagement among black youth and young adults between the ages of 18-35. On April 4, 1996, BYV! was launched under the theme “The Ballot, Not the Bullet” live on CSPAN to address the chronic decline in Black youth voter participation. http://ncbcp.org/programs/byv/.

About R.O.O.T. Inc.
ROOT (Reaching Out to Others Together) Inc. is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization committed to advocacy, education, and intervention on behalf of homicide victims and their families. Our mission is to motivate and mobilize communities to take a proactive approach to reducing homicides and the senseless violence occurring in our communities.

About Black Women’s Roundtable
The Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) is an intergenerational civic engagement network of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. At the forefront of championing just and equitable public policy on behalf of Black women, BWR promotes their health and wellness, economic security, education and global empowerment as key elements for success.

"Our esteemed honorees exemplify our theme of Leadership, Engagement, and Empowerment. Each of their remarks touched on issues ranging from the crisis in education to civil rights and the assault on labor unions," said Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition. "This year, the 35th anniversary of the organization, our audience left with a charge to get to work so we can keep moving forward instead of backward."

The intergenerational gala was hosted by former New York prosecutor and TV personality, Star Jones and included a tribute to the late Dr. Ronald Walters, a renown political scientist and a founderof The National Coalition. Long-time National Coalition events manager, Ruby Pulliam, was also recognized during the event. Guests included leaders from civil rights, government, labor, and the faith communities. The 2011Spirit Award honorees are:

In commemoration of the anniversary celebration the founders of The National Coalition were recognized.

"In 1976 The National Coalition launched the first nationally coordinated coalition to register 15 million Black people to vote. Today we bear witness to the impact The National's Coalition's work has had on the number of elected officials in office," said Kevin Parker, principal, Capital Consulting Group and 35th Anniversary Spirit Host Committee Chair. "We have Black members of congress, mayor's, and the election of the first African American president of the United States, President Barack Obama. Thank you for your dedication and commitment."

The Spirit Awards are presented to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to creating balance in the democratic process and support The Nation Coalition's mission of making civic participation a cultural responsibility and tradition. Title 35th Anniversary partners include AT&T, Verizon, s among others. For more information on the awards or The National Coalition go to www.ncbcp.org.

DOWNLOAD HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTOS OF HONOREES AND EVENT AT: www.dogonvillage.com/SpiritAwards

Washington, DC – Former New York Prosecutor, TV host, and author, Star Jones, will serve as host of the 14th annual “Spirit of Democracy Awards Black & White Gala,” Melanie L. Campbell, president and CEO of The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (The National Coalition), announced recently. The Gala will be held on Wednesday, May 18, 2011, 6 PM at the Renaissance DC Hotel. For ticket information call (202) 659-4929 or email ncbcp@ncbcp.org.

Selected for their unselfish dedication to education, social and economic justice, the 2011 Spirit of Democracy honorees are: Wade Henderson, president and CEO, Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights; Minyon Moore, principal, Dewey Square Group; Rev. Al Sharpton, president, National Action Network; and Yelberton Watkins, chief of staff, Congressman James Clyburn’s Office, Dennis Van Roekel, president, National Education Association and Randi Weingarten, president, American Federation of Teachers.

“We could not have chosen a better group of honorees to kick-off our 35th anniversary celebration. All of them are great leaders and are committed to empowering communities of color,” said Campbell. “This is the first of multiple anniversary events to take place throughout the year. We’re taking the rest of the year to celebrate and to build upon over three decades of leadership, engagement and empowerment in Black communities.”

Additional 35th anniversary events planned later this year include the launch of the Eddie Williams Civic Engagement and Social Innovation Training Academy on Sep 17, and the Women of Power 35: Mentor/Protégé Luncheon & Summit on Oct 20. The luncheon & summit will be part of the close-out the final tour stop for Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) 2010-2011 “Healthy, Wealthy, &Wise” National Empowerment Tour. Made possible by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the tour provides tools to empower Black and underserved women and girls.

The Spirit of Democracy Awards are presented to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a consistent commitment to creating balance in the democratic process and support The Nation Coalition’s mission and vision of making civic participation a cultural responsibility and tradition. Title 35th Anniversary Partners include AT&T and Verizon, among others. The event is open to the public. Individual ticket prices are $150. For tickets or more information call 202 659-4929 or visit www.ncbcp.org to purchase online.

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ABOUT THE NATIONAL COALITION:

Founded in 1976, the NCBCP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing Black civic participation in civil society. For 35 years, The National Coalition has been a central force for Black civic engagement, leadership development and voter empowerment creating effective coalition models and networks to address our communities’ emerging needs through its 80 membership organizations, 12 state-based affiliates, signature programs and initiatives---Black Women’s Roundtable, Black Youth Vote!, Youth Policy & Process, Voices of the Electorate and Unity Diaspora Coalition.

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Edrea Davis Publicist, Producer & Author of SnitchCraft www.jazzmynepr.com www.snitchcraft.com Check out Edrea's newest book "PR 4.0" www.dogonvillage.com