Events

The symposium will bring together local, state, and nationally elected officials along with members from academia, both public and private sectors, government and non-government entities, and members of the community. The purpose of the symposium is to discuss and explore various perspectives and causes for the loss in fortitude in the political and social advocacy of the black church, as seen for example during the 50's, and 60's. In addition, the symposium will provide insight and understanding to the growing reality and effects of public policies on the African American community as a whole. The event will consist of several plenary sessions including "The 21st Century Black Church and Social Change," which will feature Congressman James Clyburn, (S.C). Other sessions scheduled are: "The American Jobs Act" - Putting Our People Back to Work, and "Your Vote is Your Voice" - Your Role in the 2012 Presidential Election. Both sessions have noted experts confirmed to provide a wealth of information.

As we look to the future and the next generation, the policies of today will affect the African American community for the next 20 years and beyond. It is imperative that the African American community re-engages itself in the shaping of policy and not sit back and wait for policy to be made. The overtone of the panels will address the shift from the church being the cornerstone and pivotal institution for political and social change in the black community to a now largely silent institution. In addition, through the Body of Christ we have a responsibility to embrace the principles and precepts that fortify and establish the commandments of Christ in our policies and practices.

Across the country, thousands of churches and hundreds of Mega Ministries have an awesome opportunity to set the tone not only for the 2012 Presidential elections, but for every election to come. With their influence over their memberships and their ties to community and city government officials, pastors more than ever need to speak up and speak out about the injustices in the African American communities, primarily: crime, unemployment, high school drop-out rates, housing, healthcare, gangs, drug addictions, etc. You name it and the African American community has it, and at a much higher rate than the rest of America.

So on Friday, April 27th, at 7:00pm, and on Saturday, April 28th, at 9:00am we will begin to erect a new philosophy for the African American community and its political atmosphere by charging our members, our leaders, and our elected officials to hear our voice. We must be heard! Join us on Friday, April 27th and Saturday, April 28th to redeem the legacy that was once set by the blood shed by activist over a half a century ago. Together, let's take a stand!