PDA Entertainment Search Results

Name Description
The Boys Choir of Harlem World-renowned Boys Choir of Harlem presents an uplifting and inspiring musical presentation.
Race Relations in America Charles Moskos, a white sociology professor and John Sibley Butler, a black professor of sociology, are the nation's foremost authorities on race relations in the armed forces and in the United States. Moskos and Butler offer a blueprint for organizations to provide opportunities for all and to improve race relations at the same time. They are the co-authors of All That We Can Be: Black Leadership and Racial Integration the Army Way.
Sweet Honey In the Rock Founded in 1973 by Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, Sweet Honey In The Rock is a Grammy Award-winning African American female a cappella ensemble with deep musical roots in the sacred music of the black church - spirituals, hymns, gospel - as well as jazz and blues. The Sweet Honey experience is like no other. Six African American women join their powerful voices, along with hand percussion instruments, to create a blend of lyrics, movement and narrative that variously relate history, point the finger at injustice, encourage activism, and sing the praises of love. The music speaks out against oppression and exploitation of every kind. The septet, whose words are simultaneously interpreted in uniquely expressive American Sign Language, demands a just and humane world for all.
African Heritage Dancers and Drummers A leading Black performing arts company specializing in traditional West African dance, music and culture. The African HeritageCompany gives as authentic a cultural presentation as can be seen on this side of the Atlantic.
An Evening of Jazz with Ramsey Lewis Jazz great, award winning pianist, and the leader of the Ramsey Lewis Trio. An internationally known and acclaimed musician, renowned for his keyboard virtuosity, Ramsey Lewis is the recipient of nine gold records and three Grammy awards.
Trinidad Tripoli Steel Band From the steps of the White House to eight World's Fair appearances, this amazing group of performers from Trinidad play a repertoire of music that ranges from classic to rock and roll...on oil drums. This feat has astounded audiences not only because of the unbelievable fidelity and artistic accomplishments with which they render each concert...whether it be modern, classical, or their native calypso.
Willie Tyler & Lester A famous ventriloquist and his dummy, Willie Tyler and Lester have been wowing Las Vegas audiences for years. A sure hit for your entertainment event.
The Stylistics Well known R&B group of the 70's.
The Temptations Popular singing group.
Tyrese Recording artist, actor, motivational speaker and model, Tyrese is the host of the cutting edge musical program, "MTV Jams."Gibson's latest film is Waist Deep, in which he plays a man fighting to rescue his son from kidnappers; his co-stars in the film, Meagan Good and Larenz Tate, are personal friends of Gibson's in real life. Like several of his previous roles, the film is set in an urban environment, but Gibson has said that he does not view the role as a "step back", rather seeing the film as taking "another direction" due to some of its themes and action sequences. Waist Deep was released on June 23, 2006. Gibson prefers his music career to acting, but will focus on both areas. His next album will be called Alter Ego, and will feature both R&B and hip hop songs. He will use an alias, "Black Ty", for the rap tracks. His next film role will be in the big-budget action movie, Transformers, which is currently filming and is scheduled for a release in July of 2007; the film's director, Michael Bay, had Gibson in mind for the role before he was cast, and thus Gibson did not have to audition for the part. Gibson may also star in a film version of the superhero Luke Cage; the script is currently being re-formatted.
Kool Bubba Ice Comedian and cast member of the Apollo Comedy Hour.
Most Brothers The Most Brothers have appeared in casinos in Atlantic City and Las Vegas. They have performed on Def Comedy Jam, The Apollo Comedy Hour and comedy venues throughout the country. The Most Brothers are America's funniest comedy team.
The First Black President of the United States A one man show featuring Dennis Rahiim Watson as the first Black President in a real live simulated press conference with an African-American president prepared to answer the hot button domestic and international issues facing America and the world today.
Cedric The Entertainer Cedric The Entertainer is best known for his crowd-pleasing roles in the recent hit films Barbershop with Ice Cube, Be Cool with John Travolta, Madagascar (animated feature, Intolerable Cruelty with George Clooney, and The Original Kings of Comedy, MTVS documentary feature directed by Spike Lee. Additionally, in April 2004, Cedric was star and producer of the box office hit Johnson Family Vacation (ranked the #1 comedy in America for two consecutive weeks). On the big screen, Cedric has also been seen in The Honeymooners in which he starred as Jackie Gleasons famed character Ralph Cramden with thumbs up from Roger Ebert, Lemony Snicket with Jim Carrey, Man of the House with Tommy Lee Jones, Barbershop 2, Big Mommas House with Martin Lawrence, Kingdom Come with Whoopi Goldberg, Serving Sara with Matthew Perry, as well as displaying tremendous vocal talent in Dr. Dolittle 2 and Ice Age. He will next star in The Cleaner opposite Lucy Liu, Mr. Lucky co starring Bruce Willis, Johnson Family Vacation 2, Flash co starring Nelly, Preachin Aint Easy and the animated feature Charlottes Web. Cedric has celebrated many career successes spanning television, live performances and film. Some notable accolades include nabbing The AFTRA Award of Excellence in Television Programming for his Fox Television series Cedric the Entertainer Presents; a record-breaking (4) consecutive NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his portrayal of the lovable Coach Cedric Robinson on the WBs #1-rated The Steve Harvey Show, which ran for six seasons. His first comedy book, Grown-Ass Man, was released in January of 2002 and sold out across the country. In 2001, a viewing audience of over 144 million saw Cedric star in the Bud Light commercial that landed in the #1 spot during the Super Bowl broadcast (subsequently, USA Today dubbed him Madison Avenues Most Valuable Player. And, in 1994, Cedric received The Richard Pryor Comic of the Year Award from Black Entertainment Television for his ground-breaking work as host of Def Comedy Jam and BETs Comic View (1994-95 season). Now helming his own production company, A Bird and a Bear Entertainment, Cedric will develop and produce feature films. Johnson Family Vacation was the first feature under the new company. As a philanthropist, Cedric founded The Cedric The Entertainer Charitable Foundation, which provides scholarships and outreach programs to enhance the lives of inner-city youth and their families in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. He plans to extend the foundation nationally.
Dance Theatre of Harlem Internationally acclaimed professional ballet company, the Dance Theatre of Harlem was established in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell, a former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, as his personal committment to the people of Harlem following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
DMX Popular rapper and actor, DMX has completed his transformation from underground upstart to top dog. Now a movie star, DMX can be seen in the movie "Exit Wounds" with action hero Steven Seagal. DMX's first movie role was as a gangster in "Belly" and as a night club owner battling rival gangs in "Romeo Must Die."
The Meeting A play based on a fictional meeting of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. In this moving work, playwright Jeff Stetson imagines for us what a clandestine meeting might have been like between two of the most influential men of their time: Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. This fictional meeting takes place in a shabby Harlem hotel room in Febrary, 1965. Within a week, Malcolm will be assassinated and in three short years, Dr. King will also become martyred to the crusade for freedom. This play sold out hundreds of performances and we are pleased to bring it back for another run.
Windtalkers Zonnie Gorman, Navajo Code Talker historian, who acted as a consultant for the John Woo movie, Windtalkers, presents a lecture telling the true story of the Navajo Code Talkers role in World War II and their contributions to winning the war. The code, created from the Dina language, the Navajo native tongue, was never broken nor was it revealed until 1968, when the military declassified the secret. Last year President Bush awarded Congressional medals to the surviving Code Talkers for their pivotal roles in America's victory in the Pacific. Zonnie Gorman's lecture is also available with one of the original twenty nine Navajo Marine Code Talkers. With slides and filmclips.
Vibe-n-Verse Five spoken word poets and musicians who make up Vibe-n-Verse do a performance that blends original spoken word poetry with live music. The two hour program ends with audience interaction and Q&A.
SINBAD Sinbad's name recalls the literary legend that symbolizes strength, adventure and optimism and is what he strives for. "I renamed myself Sinbad because Sinbad is bad. He could hang with rogues and with kings. He didn't have the strength of Hercules, but he could outwit anyone." Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Sinbad grew up telling jokes to his three brothers and two sisters. The image sticks; Sinbad the wild child, off-the-wall Sinbad who would do anything for attention, acting stupid, free as the wind, on unpredictable force that can't be harnessed, and always willing to pay any price, looking for laughs.
Boys Choir of Harlem The Boys Choir of Harlem has entertained audiences worldwide with a broad collection of music including classical, contemporary, spirituals, gospel and jazz. Combining soulful music and well-orchestrated choreography, the choir puts on 80 to 100 concerts annually, including tours through Europe and the Orient. Founded by nationally known educator and conductor Walter J. Turnbull in 1968, the organization not only provides children between the ages of eight and 18 the opportunity to realize their creative potential, but it also educates and broadens their creative perception. Its purpose is to provide – in addition to music – counseling, tutoring and recreational activities.
Branford Marsalis Quartet Billboard jazz writer Steve Graybow recently described the Branford Marsalis quartet as "a unit with telepathic intuition and unbridled adventurousness, held together by a singular creative vision." For his first quartet album in nine years, Branford has made a requiem for a heavyweight. Requiem is a tribute to pianist Kenny Kirkland, Branford's friend and colleague for nearly 20 years, whose sublime performances on the new album proved to be his last recorded work.
Ice T Ice-T (born Tracy Morrow) has proven to be one of hip-hop's most articulate and intelligent stars, as well as one of its most frustrating. At his best, the rapper has written some of the best portraits of ghetto life and gangsters, as well as some of the best social commentary that hip-hop has produced. He has become an influential spokesman for America’s youth, regardless of color. He also joined the cast of TV's "Law & Order SVU" (consistently a number-one Friday night show) as a series regular playing the part of Detective Finn. Additionally, Ice T has been the keynote speaker at a number of Internet conventions including the 1999 College Music Journal Conference in New York, and in 2000, the New York Music & Internet Expo, Rotterdam Film Festival, and Canadian Music Week.
B.B. King B.B. King is considered one of the greatest blues guitarists of the late 20th century. His unique style of playing integrating single string runs, bent chords and left hand vibrato has influenced countless musicians including Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, David Gilmour and Buddy Guy.
Beyond Beats and Rhymes: The Sundance Film Festival selected Beyond Beats and Rhymes for this year's festival in Park City, Utah, January 19-29, 2006. This news came on the heels of receiving word that the Emmy award-winning PBS series Independent Lens (www.independentlens.org) had also selected Beyond Beats and Rhymes for a 2007 national television broadcast. Beyond Beats and Rhymes: A Hip-Hop Head Weighs in on Manhood in Hip-Hop Culture is a riveting documentary that examines representations of gender roles in hip-hop and rap music through the lens of filmmaker Byron Hurt, a former college quarterback turned activist. Conceived as a "loving critique" from a self-proclaimed "hip-hop head," Hurt tackles issues of masculinity, sexism, violence and homophobia in today's hip-hop culture.
Coach Carter Coach Carter is a coach, author, educator and inspiration for the movie Coach Carter, featuring Samuel L. Jackson. The movie recounts Carter’s decision to literally lock his undefeated, state play-off bound basketball team out of the gym and force them to hit the books. Coach Carter is an advocate for Richmond's youth and is active in his community. He is diligent in providing them with opportunities to build meaningful relationships with their peers and caring adults, and recognizes the advantages inherent in a sound sports program. In October, 2000 he announced his plans to travel from Richmond High School to the steps of the California State Capitol in Sacramento. Using only a kick scooter, Carter traveled for 3 days to Sacramento hoping to draw awareness to the deteriorating state of our schools and the need for students, parents, teachers, and school board officials to commit to making a difference. His efforts proved successful, and subsequently Richmond High received building enhancements and computers from the Office of the Secretary of Education. Under the direction and guidance of Coach Carter, in December of 2000, 11 students from Australia arrived in the U.S. to promote peace and to learn first hand what it takes to be an American high school basketball player. Coach Carter found a way to bring something positive to the lives of Richmond High students, where heroes and positive role models are few and far between. Using basketball as the common bond, the intention of the visit was to offer these students an opportunity to meet each other, gain awareness about each others' culture and communities, and to learn hands-on about what it takes to be a top-notch American athletic. Carter feels that exchanges such as these are needed to promote a more just and peaceful place for us all to live in.
Lost Boys of Sudan Lost Boys of Sudan is a feature-length documentary that follows two Sudanese refugees on an extraordinary journey from Africa to America. Orphaned as young boys in one of Africa's cruelest civil wars, Peter Dut and Santino Chuor survived lion attacks and militia gunfire to reach a refugee camp in Kenya along with thousands of other children. From there, remarkably, they were chosen to come to America. Safe at last from physical danger and hunger, a world away from home, they find themselves confronted with the abundance and alienation of contemporary American suburbia. Lost Boys of Sudan won an Independent Spirit Award and screened theatrically in 70 cities across the U.S. to strong audience and critical praise. The film was broadcast nationally on the PBS series POV in the fall of 2004 and earned two Emmy nominations. The story of the Lost Boys of Sudan has touched people from all walks of life. From movie stars and politicians to the average housewife, people from around the world have fallen in love with these courageous young men. Joan Hecht was no exception. When hearing of their story for the first time, Joan Hecht’s eyes filled with tears and she felt a deep stirring in her soul. She knew that helping them was not an option. It was a call to her heart from God and Joan Hecht responded. She hoped to be instrumental in making their new lives in America better than the ones they had left behind. Like many others, Joan Hecht felt compelled to be a mother to these young men who couldn't even remember the faces of their own mothers. “Mama Joan” hoped only to help change their lives, never realizing how knowing each of them would so drastically change her own.
Nathan Keliikui Brown Nathan coordinates Research & International Law for the Ohana (family) Council - a leading organization in the dynamic Native Hawaiian movement to re-assert independence & self-determination. In 1878 Captain Cook came upon, "400,000 island residents with a well-developed, flourishing culture and lifestyle. They were robust & healthy and had a coherent system of spiritual beliefs, economics and scholarship." In 1893 armed white settlers and the U.S.Marines overthrew the Sovereign Hawaiian Kingdom in violation of a Treaty of Peace & Friendship. For Nathan's people, self-determination is the right to choose ones destiny in compliance with The U.N. Charter, Article 73. Nathan is of Kanaka Mooli (Hawaiian) descent from a family of 14 children raised in a rural lifestyle in the heart of Downtown Honolulu. After several arrests, he is under federal indictment for exercising his human rights. He is currently assisting Kanaka Maoli communities with the Ohana Council Self-government Charter that lays a foundation for self-determination & self-governance. Nathan engages in eloquent unveiling of truth through the spirit of Aloha.
Hinewirangi Hiné is Coordinator of the Maori Women's Resource Center and a Representative of the Nuclear Free and Independent Pacific movement. She is a Board Member of the International Indian Treaty Council and has served as Co-Director. She is mother of two children and has mothered several others. She has published four volumes of poetry, is currently working on a novel and has written and directed 6 videos for children about recognizing sexual abuse. She has written many dramas reflecting her culture. Her life's work has been with women and children, healing effects of abuse
Apollo vs. Dionysus: A Philosophy to Increase College Success by 85% In the 3700 institutions of higher learning in America, no more than 50% of students who start school leave with a degree. The figure is smaller for minorities. In this Freshman Orientation Seminar of six hours (two days of three hours per day), Professor Henry Parker and Marilyn Crist show participants how to increase their chance of graduating by 85%. The content of their presentation is based on a program they created and directed at the University of Tennessee which resulted in an 85% retention rate for all participants, irrespective of race, gender, or academic standing when they entered college. Ms. Crist also discusses a program she created which resulted in a success rate of 77% for probation students, the highest risk group of all. This seminar is a must for schools who know the value of retaining the freshmen they recruit. Topics included in the seminar are sexual relations, time management, reading comprehension, critical thinking, etc
Paper Clips Paper Clips is an inspiring 2004 documentary about a consciousness-raising project that blossomed into something beautiful at a rural Tennessee school. When the principal of Whitwell Middle School sought a program that would teach diversity to a predominantly white, Protestant student body, the notion of focusing on the Holocaust--specifically Hitler's extermination of six million Jews--seemed like an obvious way to go. But understanding what "six million" looks like became a challenge. Thus was born the idea of collecting that number of paper clips at Whitwell as a visual reference. But then it turned out paper clips actually have, in historical terms, symbolic value where the Holocaust is concerned. In this moving film, one sees Whitwell students dig into research on Germany's genocidal campaign, solicit clips from a variety of leaders and celebrities, and make a name for themselves on the national news. In time, the world comes to Whitwell's doorstep, via unsolicited donations of clips from people around the world, and in a tearful meeting of students and Holocaust survivors. The dimensions of the project, the lessons about prejudice and intolerance, are stunning to watch grow beyond anyone's wildest expectations. This is a great film for families and classrooms to watch together. --Tom Keogh
Ayaan Hirsi Ali Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a prominent, often controversial author, film maker and critic of Islam. She was a member of the Tweede Kamer (the Lower House of the States-General of the Netherlands) for the People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) from January 30, 2003 until May 16, 2006. Hirsi Ali has had to maintain a high level of security due to threats against her life for voicing views critical of certain aspects of Islam. For example, her film Submission, directed by Theo van Gogh (who himself was assassinated for his works), made her one of the targets of the Hofstad Network. On May 15, 2006, officials of the Netherlands government cast doubt on Hirsi Ali's status as a Dutch national, due to concerns related to the fact that in order to obtain refugee status in the Netherlands she had provided false information. She later used the same false information when she applied for, and was granted, Dutch citizenship. The Dutch minister of immigration and integration, Rita Verdonk, moved to annul her citizenship, a move that was overridden by order of the Prime Minister. She released to the New York Times personal letters from her father and other family members that affirmed her story about fleeing a forced marriage. On June 27, 2006, the Dutch government announced that Hirsi Ali would keep her Dutch citizenship. On May 16, Hirsi Ali announced resignation from parliament and confirmed her previous statement that she would move to the United States to work at the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank. Her prospective arrival in September 2006 was welcomed by Deputy US Secretary of State Robert Zoellick.
Dr. Ro Dr. Rovenia Brock is America’s most renowned African American nutritionist and author of the national best-seller, Dr. Ro’s Ten Secrets To Livin’ Healthy. She hosted “Heart & Soul,” the first ever national health and fitness television show for African American women which aired on BET. She is a familiar face on MSNBC, CNN, and previously on the nationally syndicated “Queen Latifah Show”, and on “The Tavis Smiley Show” on NPR. Her nutrition and health expertise has been featured online on WebMD and in publications that include O Magazine, Ebony, Essence, USA Today, The Los Angeles Times, New York Daily News, Today’s Black Woman, Heart and Soul, Black Elegance, and Vibe. Dr. Ro holds a Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences and an M.S. degree in Community Nutrition and Broadcast Journalism from Howard University. She is a native of Washington, DC and is a member of The National Association of Black Journalists.
Immortal Technique Felipe Coronel better known as Immortal Technique, is a hip hop MC and political activist. Most of his songs focus on social justice, covering a wide variety of topics such as urban poverty in the US and international economic inequality (especially in Latin America), protest against the imprisonment of Mumia Abu-Jamal, militarism and the military industrial complex in the U.S., U.S. complicity in the September 11, 2001 attacks, media bias in favor of conservative and corporate interests, and racism (especially in regards to the mistreatment of people of color in the U.S.). Although he has been offered a deal with at least one major music label, he has never signed to any, since disagreements over the political content of his songs could could arise. Immortal Technique has also voiced a desire to keep control over his production, and has made statements in his music that he is very aware that it is record companies, not the artists themselves, who profit the most from mass production and marketing of music. He releases his music on and is also the President and A&R of Viper Records. To reach wider audiences, Immortal Technique's next projects will be distributed by Babygrande Records.
T.I. T.I. is from the streets of Westside Bankhead Zone 1. His original stage name, T.I.P., stems from his childhood nickname "Tip", which he got from his grandfather. Due to his southern drawl, many fans mistook his name for "Chip", so he began spelling it out "T.I.P". During this time, T.I.P was also popularly known to be the acronym of "Ten Inch Playa," denoting Harris' generous anatomic endowment. Upon signing with Arista Records subsidiary LaFace Records in 2001, he shortened his name to T.I. out of respect for label mate Q-Tip. He is also known to go by "Rubberband Man" and the self-proclaimed "King of the South" (which has created several cases of controversy between other southern rappers, such as Lil' Flip and Ludacris).T.I. has four children. Their names are Messiah "Ya'Majesty" Harris, Damani Uriah Harris, Deyjah Harris, and Clifford Joseph "King" Harris III, he also claims Tiny's daughter, Zonnique Pullins as his own.He is the leader of a rap group known as P$C (Pimp Squad Click). His debut album I'm Serious was released through Arista Records in 2001, which spawned the single of the same title which featured reggae vocalist Beenie Man. His debut album included Pharrell Williams of The Neptunes (who named him the Jay-Z of the south), Jazze Pha and Youngbloodz. However, the album did not sell very well, and he was dropped from the label. Undaunted, he formed Grand Hustle Records and released several mixtapes with the assistance of DJ Drama, which created an underground buzz. He resurfaced in the summer of 2003 on Bonecrusher's song "Neva Scared". He parlayed this attention towards the release of his second album, Trap Muzik. It was more of a success than his debut album because of the singles "24s", "Be Easy", "Rubber Band Man", and "Let's Get Away". The success of the album was followed by some controversy: while on tour, T.I. was charged with violating his probation over a 2003 drug charge, and turned himself in. He was sentenced to three years in prison. While there he was granted rights to film the music video for "Let's Get Away".
Anthem ANTHEM 2006 NACA Northern Plains Showcase Alternate 2006 NACA National Showcase 2005 NACA Central Showcase 2005 NACA Mid-Atlantic Showcase 2004 NACA Northeast Showcase Spanning decades and cultures, the six members of Anthem combine boundless energy and diverse musical influences to showcase their own brand of reggae on their debut CD on Mack Avenue Records. Anthem?s tight harmonies and solid musical sensibilities stem, in part, from the fact that three of the band?s members come from the same musical family. Their Jamaican heritage is the seed from which their reggae roots spread, but each of the various members also adds his own experience and influences to the mix. Anthem is comprised of rappers and producers, R&B singers and old-fashioned rock and rollers, making them a band all their own. Their members have been seen on everything from Puff Daddy?s ?Making the Band? on MTV to having their songs featured on B.E.T?s, ?Soul Food?. Positive and pop, roots and soulful, energetic and seductive?Are you ready for Anthem?
Africatam Africatam Born in the West African country of Cameroon. Djembe drummer, traditional singer and juju dancer goes back to his experience as a young boy growing up in Africa.Africa Tam was launched at the African Festival where Emmy's tribal drumming skills and folkloric ancestral dancers entertained the audience. As founder and group leader Emmy brings skills in tribal drumming, singing, African drama, ancestral dancing and wood works of art that offers a different perspective to entertainment and cultural education. Live traditional African entertainment in both public and private events. Emmy Ayafor's sculptures, songs, dancing, drama and drumming sometime depict his inner thoughts, artistic vision and the love for his culture. Drumming is the heart and soul of Africa and plays a huge role in the African community. Africa is often known as a festival continent Drumming is used as a means of communication. Drums and other African percussions have been used for centuries to express feelings, stories, events, wedding, child birth, death ceremony, rituals and links to ancestral roots. Africans use drums and other musical instruments to communicate in their daily lives. Instruments used include wooden flute, Balophone, "kora" and Iron Gong {popularly known as the "ogene" in Eastern Nigerian}. Africatamtam will provide drums and teach drumming through drum circles. The master drummer will teach and create drum sounds into groups that when merged gives an African rhythm. Each group will play a particular tone. These tones will be following by stages of tones from other groups. In much of Africa , percussion often dominates music and in many cases the drum is the leading instrument. Hand clapping, foot tapping, and body patting were also important percussive sounds. The village crowd claps at times to the rhythms of the dancer or the songs. Sometimes the audience sings together with dancers and drummers. This brings harmony and relates to ones' love of culture and tradition.
JUXTAPOWER South Africa's Dance & Song JUXTAPOWER, (South Africas Song and Dance), Inc. is a project that was established by Sduduzo Ka-Mbili, in NEW YORK CITY, during the year 1999 so as to further showcase the rich and diverse culture of South Africa through dance and song. Sduduzo`s main vision for this project is to entertain, promote, and educate about the wealth of talent and culture that Azania has to offer. The whole idea for JUXTAPOWER was first galvanized by an unbalanced/complete lack of cultural/theatrical exchange between the United States and South Africa. It's time for CHANGE. JUXTAPOWER has truly grown into a successful entity whose talents are being recognized both nationally and internationally. JUXTAPOWER has since performed at Robert Deniro's TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL, Patrick Swayze's launch of his new Movie "KING SOLOMON'S MINES," hosted by Hallmark Channel, United Nations/States event honoring Justice Goldstone of South Africa, Miss World Pageant in the British Virgin Islands, and at the Apollo Theater Aids project for Africa. JUXTAPOWER has also performed before President Clinton, President Ford & President Carter, and many other famous personalities. JUXTAPOWER has traveled extensively to Pennsylvania, Memphis, Florida, Upstate New York, Baltimore, Connecticut, Pittsburgh, Georgia, and Washington DC, to name a few. JUXTAPOWER has also had the pleasure of working side by side with the Broadway cast of the Lion King on numerous projects and still continues to do so. The company had its first full production of Uhambo (The journey) showcased at the (Little Theater) Harlem YMCA. It was the first of the string of great performances to come. In May of 2002, JUXTAPOWER did its second biggest New York City season at the Kaye Playhouse in a 700 hundred-seat theater. The performance received great reviews and accolades from the audience and critics alike. Sduduzo Ka-Mbili's commitment to community service has offered him a home at the Harlem YMCA, which is where the company conducts its rehearsals and workshops.
Not Everything Is Black & White Not Everything Is Black & White Trading Races: Getting Real With The Cast of Black. White. There is black, there is white, and there are shades of gray. And the experiences ran the gamut for the cast members of Black. White., the provocative hit TV show on the FX Network where two families—the Black Sparks and the White Wurgels—learned to literally live in each others’ skin through elaborate race-changing make-up, dialect coaching and other behavioral adjustments. Now, in the aftermath of their life-changing experiences on Black. White comes a riveting, interactive lecture experience featuring members of the two families who learned firsthand about the gray areas of race relations in America. The Sparks family (Brian, an Atlanta contractor; Renee, an office manager; and their high school son, Nick) signed on for Black. White, the sociological experience/TV show after Brian noticed an ad for auditions on-line. The Wurgels (Carmen, an LA location scout; her college freshman daughter Rose; and her boyfriend, elementary school teacher Bruno) heard about Black. White from a friend. Both families came with preconceived notions and strong ideas about what they might experience. Yet they could never have anticipated the eye-opening lessons about cultural differences. Now, after these insights have had a chance to set-in, both the Sparks and the Wurgels bring their revelations to the podium and spark the dialog, illuminate the issues, and ignite the desire for greater understanding about the gray areas... not everything is black & white.
RETTA RETTA was born to immigrant parents in what is often known as the armpit of America... Newark, New Jersey. Upon graduating from Duke University, she went into the pharmaceutical research field and soon found out that drugs were not the way to go. She left the chemistry job and moved to Los Angeles for a life in comedy. She immediately found success at the open mics and soon was showcasing at NACA conferences. During the past 5 years, RETTA has traveled to every state in the union sharing her stories about family and friends and even those not-so-happy people at the popular fast food chains. Her comedic stylings have gotten her a half hour special COMEDY CENTRAL Presents - RETTA; Premium Blend & sketch work on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno". You can also find her in such movies as "Slackers" and "Dickie Roberts-Former Child Star"
The Original Kings of Comedy The Original Kings of Comedy is a 2000 stand up comedy film, directed by Spike Lee, and features the comedy routines of Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Bernie Mac. Filmed in front of an audience in Charlotte, North Carolina, the comedians give the audience their views about African American culture, race relations, church, and families.
The Three Doctors During a time where few heroes materialize, The Three Doctors served as an extraordinary model of leadership for anyone who has been through any kind of hardship whether it's coping with the struggles of the street or internal challenges of dealing with self, finding our place in the world and determining our own unique destinies. A decade and a half ago, three teenage boys from the streets of Newark, New Jersey made a pact: They would stick together, go to college, and become doctors. Now, over 13 years later, these three men have overcome obstacles and proudly bear the subtitle of doctors. Sampson Davis, George Jenkins and Rameck Hunt deliver a well needed and urgent message of hope and inspiration everywhere they go. Their key messages-Never underestimate the power of self-reliance and inner strength-attach a timeline and devise a strategy for achieving your goals-and finally-Surround yourself with like-minded people who are in line with your aspirations. Growing up in the streets of Newark, they know first hand the pressures and struggles of life in the inner city. Determined not to become victims of their environment, the trio stood firm in their mission and together became one of the most remarkable success stories of inspiration, dedication and determination. The Three Doctors are frequently asked about their formula for becoming prominent men and doctors. While their list is long, they are certain that success comes in many different forms, as does talent. Dr. Rameck Hunt is a Board Certified Internist at University Medical Center at Princeton and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. George Jenkins serves as Assistant Professor of Clinical Dentistry at Columbia University. Dr. Sampson Davis is a Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician at St. Michaels Medical Center and Raritan Bay Medical Center. Davis is also consultant for the Violence Prevention Institute focusing on gang awareness and preventative medicine in Essex County. The doctors have additionally authored two inspiring books about their lives: The Pact, for adults, and We Beat the Streets, for children. A third book The Bond, highlighting fatherhood relationships will be released in 2007. The Three Doctors received the prestigious Essence Award for their accomplishments and leadership. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts one can give is the gift of self and these men do it often wholeheartedly. Their effect on their communities has indeed been tremendous. These young men continue to speak out on life's challenges and together symbolize a new walk, talk, and attitude about facing the world. Children can identify with them, as well as at-risk teens and adults. Perhaps it's because of the impact of their message, perhaps the essence of their story. The reason is irrelevant, the results remarkable. The Three Doctors are young visionaries that bring forth new hope and have become some of the most sought after public speakers.
RZA RZA is the Wu-Tang Clans chief producer. Also known as the Abbott, Prince Rakeem, Rzarector, Bobby Steels, and Bobby Digital, he was born as Robert Diggs. RZA first surfaced in the rap game during the early 90s as a member of the rap group All in Together Now, which also contained fellow Wu-Tang members such as GZA/Genius and Ol Dirty Bastard. Following All in Together Now, he signed to the famous rap label Tommy Boy under the name Prince Rakeem. He issued his first EP Ooh We Love You Rakeem in 1991 and made a video for the song Ooh We Love You Rakeem. After his deal with Tommy Boy, he formed the Wu-Tang Clan together with his fellow members. After a huge underground buzz surrounding the hit Protect Ya Neck, he was able to sign the group to Steve Rifkinds Loud Records. As a producer, RZA has been responsible for many hip-hop classics such as the groups 1993 debut Enter the Wu-Tang 36 Chambers, which is considered to be one of the most influential albums in its genre. Since that album, he has created countless solo albums for the group, plus three more group albums. The Wu-Tang Clan is currently working on their newest album, The 8 Diagrams. Outside of the Wu-Tang Clan family, RZA is a highly sought-after producer. He has created wonderful songs for legends such as the late Notorious B.I.G. and Big Pun. In 1995, RZA became the Rzarector, forming the group named Gravediggaz together with Prince Paul, Frukwan , and the late Poetic. Their debut album 6 Feet Deep was received as a classic. RZA has never released a true RZA album; however he does have two albums out but under his alter ego named Bobby Digital, he released In Stereo, creating a whole new sound in hip-hop and Digital Bullet that spawned the hit La Rhumba. RZA created the soundtrack for Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai that contained stunning verses by the Wu-Tang family and friends over vintage RZA beats. Since then, he has gone on to closely work with Quentin Tarantino, of Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction fame, on his movie, Kill Bill.
Stand Up for Diversity NBCs Stand Up for Diversity are holding auditions for their Fifth Annual nationwide search. A talent holding deal with NBC, an opportunity to perform at the NACA (National Association of Campus Activities) Convention, access to talent bookers from The Tonight Show , Conan, Carson Daly and Last Comic Standing and much more are up for grabs for the funniest diverse comedians in the country.
Harlym 125 Harlym 125 was born Jamele Adams in Harlem. This educator, activist, romantic, entertainer, poet and actor lives his art with conviction toward preserving its purity: artistic freedom and creativity. 125 is responsible for starting the Hip Hop Society and the Kenyon Alive Poets Society. He believes that the community of the mind is where we reinvent the spirituality of the streets.
Judy Scales-Trent Noted law professor, attorney and author of Notes of a White Black Woman: Race, Color, Community, which describes a hidden part of the Black experience in America by exploring what it is like to be a "white" Black woman and to live simultaneously inside and outside of both white and Black communities. By tracing how America's racial purity laws have operated over the past 400 years (creating a large group of Black Americans with white skin), Judy Scales-Trent explores the question of what we really mean by "race" in this country.
Vernice Armour Vernice Armour First African-American Female Combat Pilot in American History PASSION, Fueled by FIRE! Live with PASSION and breathe with PURPOSE! These are the words Vernice lives by and she will bring that passion to you and your organization! You will walk away with leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that will bring you through your own “Combat” situations in your business and personal life. She knows what it takes to get the mission accomplished because she blazed the trail to become the first African-American female combat pilot in American history. She speaks to a wide variety of audiences. If your organization is ready to take flight then book Vernice today! Vernice has been featured on Oprah Winfrey, CNN, Tyra Banks, NPR, Tavis Smiley and numerous news shows and TV/radio interviews. Let her share her story with you, but if you’re looking for more than inspiration and motivation, join corporations such as Bank of America, Booz Allen Hamilton and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab on topics such as diversity, leadership and teamwork. Meeting planners recommend Vernice because she understands getting the job done, what it takes to be a great leader, and how to motivate a winning team! Her energy fills the room and is dangerously contagious! One of the speakers Vernice has shared the stage with, the world-renowned motivational speaker, Les Brown, has said, “She will change your life!” Vernice was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps on December 12, 1998. When Vernice earned her wings in July 2001, this ambitious pilot ranked No. 1 out her class of 12 and of the last 200 to graduate. As the top graduate, she made the Naval Air Station's prestigious Commodore's List, received the Academic Achievement Award and made history as the Marine Corps’ first African-American female pilot. In 2003, Vernice became the First African-American Combat pilot in American history, during her tour in Iraq. Vernice was one of our Nation’s finest, as a Nashville Police Officer, prior to becoming a United States Marine. She was Camp Pendleton's 2001 Female Athlete of the Year, two-time titleholder in Camp Pendleton's annual Strongest Warrior Competition, and was a running back for the San Diego Sunfire women's professional football team. Taking your organization to the next level is the only direction you’re going when you bring in the “Military Motivator!”
Jay T. Hairston He can facilitate a 3 to 5 day workshop that incorporates original material, classes on vocal techniques, history of gospel music and more, all designed to give hands-on experience for those who participate. He is a gifted songwriter, singer, musician, teacher and producer who believes in sharing the ministry and message of gospel music. Jay T. believes that "gospel music is not just something to listen to, it is an experience. Once you've experienced good, anointed gospel music, you will never be the same again!"
Survival Tools For People of Color : Dr. Bertice Berry talk show host and sociologist, along with Dr. Bernita Berry, professor of sociology, provide survival skills to people of color who live or work in a predominantly white environment . They address issues of covert and overt racism, isolation and hostility. In addition, Bertice and Bernita teach effective recruitment and retention to faculty and/or management to promote multicultural co-existence.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Kareem Abdul-Jabbar called "history's greatest basketball player" by Time magazine, NBA Hall-of-Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar led his teammates to six world championship titles. He is the co-author of Black Profiles in Courage: A Legacy of African-American Achievement and Brothers in Arms. At the podium, he delivers a rousing evening of championship memories and reflections on the teamwork that made them happen. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a true legend in the world of sports. Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Jim Murray of The Los Angeles Times summed it up best when he wrote, "He dominated his sport in the way few have in the long history of games men play." That observation was further validated with Abdul-Jabbar's 1995 induction (upon first nomination) to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Abdul-Jabbar's accomplishments on the basketball court are nothing short of remarkable. He has earned the respect and admiration of the world as one of the game's greatest players and Time magazine has called him "history's greatest basketball player." What this man has done might very well never be repeated. After 20 successful seasons in the NBA, Abdul-Jabbar now spends his time on filmmaking, promoting products and services, giving back to the community and book-writing. As President of Kareem Productions, he is actively involved in the entertainment industry. In 1996, he served as a presenter at the 68th Annual Academy Awards. In 1994, Abdul-Jabbar collaborated with Laurel Entertainment (now New Amsterdam Entertainment) to produce The Vernon Johns Story. This made-for-television biography starred James Earl Jones as civil rights activist Vernon Johns and earned critical acclaim at the Monte Carlo Film Festival. He also served as co-executive producer of the highly-rated primetime special for NBC, An All-Star Tribute to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The event, televised from Los Angeles, doubled as a charity event for Athletes and Entertainers for Kids and was co-produced by Pierre Cossette. His acting credits include roles in the comedy feature films Fletch with Chevy Chase and Airplane with Peter Graves. Other film appearances include The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh, Game of Death, Troop Beverly Hills and The Mighty Ducks II. At the podium, he delivers a rousing evening of championship memories and reflections on the teamwork that made them happen.
Rodolfo Acuna An expert on Chicano affairs, Rodolfo Acuna is the founding chair of the Chicano Studies Department at The University of California, the largest Chicano studies department in the nation. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Scholar Award from the National Association for Chicano Studies. Professor Acuna is the author of many books including Occupied America: A History of Chicanos.
Janus Adams Nationally syndicated columnist, broadcast journalist, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and award-winning author. Her latest book is Sister Days: 365 Inspired Moments in African-American Women's History. The third volume of a series, it continues the saga begun in Glory Days:365 Inspired Moments in African-American History; and Freedom Days-a history of the civil rights movement in which she was a participant. In February 1998 and again in 1999, McDonald's Corporation licensed Glory Days for its Black History Month campaign. Her national advice column, "What Do We Tell Our Children?" explores race relations and other bias-related issues.
Step Afrika Step Afrika! is a powerful collaborative project between young artists from the United States and the South Africa based Soweto Dance Theatre. The project highlights the African American fraternity and sorority art form of steping and it's link to traditonal South African dance. Recently performing at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., reviewers describe Step Afrika!'s perfromance as " a dance genre considered by some to be one of the most exciting created by Americans in the 21st century." Step Afrika! displays the roots of stepping in South Africa's gumboot dance and declares it's relationship with tap dance and hoofing
Kimberly Aiken Miss America of 1994, South Carolina's Kimberly Aiken is a positive role model for children and adults of all races. An articulate and motivational speaker, she is an advocate for the homeless in America. Kimberly was named national chairperson for Project Open Book, a reading program for homeless children, and she is the founder of a group called HERO, the Homeless Education and Resource Organization.
Lalo Alcaraz Lalo Alcaraz, an award-winning editorial cartoonist and Latino journalist, created the first nationally syndicated, politically themed Latino daily strip, "La Cucaracha." Alcaraz has produced editorial cartoons for LA Weekly since 1992 and also creates editorial cartoons in English and Spanish for Universal Press Syndicate. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Village Voice, Los Angeles Times, Variety, Hispanic Magazine, Latina Magazine, La Jornada in Mexico City, and many other publications. Alcaraz recently published the book Migra Mouse: Political Cartoons on Immigration (Akashic Books) and also illustrated Latino USA: A Cartoon History (Basic Books, 2000). In 2004, he received the "2004 Latino Spirit Award" from the California Latino Legislative Caucus. Alcaraz serves as keynote speaker for George Mason's Hispanic Heritage Month.
Miguel Algarin Miguel Algarin is the "poet laureate" of Loisaida - also known as the Lower East Side - and founder of the Nuyorican Poets Café in New York City, where he has nurtured the spoken and written word for nearly three decades. Through the Café Algarin helped cultivate the popular "slam" poetry movement. Colliding the gritty topics of urbanity with the art of literature, Algarin's Café has provided a venue for words to jump from the page to the stage. Since 1974, the Nuyorican Poets Café has captured the flavor of the streets serving as a haven for poets, writers, thespians, performance artists, musicians, visual artists and hip-hop renegades, running the cultural gamut from acclaimed theater productions to hip-hop open mikes to celebrations of salsa and merengue music. The Café is the living room hosting the freshest art to immigrate to New York City, from not only the Caribbean and the Americas, but from all over the world. The Nuyorican Poets Café is a stage of words made visible. Situated in Manhattan's Lower East Side, Loisaida, the community, is a mixture of various ethnic backgrounds: Puerto Rican, Dominican, African-American, Ukrainian, Polish and Irish, to name a few. The community also hosts a great number of artists. This diverse energy is reflected in the performances of the Nuyorican Poets Café. Algarin, along with the emerging artists of the Nuyorican Poets Café, bring their talents to the forefront, dazzling audiences with their vibrant presentations. Mixing the traditional arts of oral story telling and classical poetry with the edgy raw rhythm of the hip-hop influenced streets creates the soulful heartbeat which is the Café. Recognized as a long-term cultural worker of the Lower East Side, Miguel Algarin's Nuyorican Poets Café has become a Loisaida institution. The Café and its milieu have provided a blueprint for the development of the international slam poetry movement that first surfaced in Chicago.
Shahrazad Ali Controversial author specializing in independent research on social and ethnic issues, Shahrazad Ali says her study proves that “the Black woman's disrespect and rebellion against the leadership and authority of the Black man is a direct cause of the breakdown in the Black family structure.” Ms. Ali is the author of Are You Still a Slave?, The Black Man's Guide to Understanding the Black Woman; andThe Black Woman's Guide to Understanding the Black Man and Womens Rights Womens Power..
Harry Allen Hip-Hop Visions looks at the way media and advertising affect our understanding of gender, race, identity, and power. It's a compact, economical program that deeply involves both young and adult audiences by utilizing the music and imagery of rap -- the compelling sound of today's youth culture -- to drive thought and inspire. Harry Allen, hip-hop activist and media assassin, writes about race, politics, and hip-hop for Vibe, Spin, The Source, The Village Voice, Billboard, Essence, Newsday, and XXL, among other publications. Widely hailed as one of hip-hop culture's most original minds, he has been quoted as an expert in The Wall Street Journal, on National Public Radio, and on CNN. Well known for his association with the seminal band Public Enemy, Allen also founded the world's first not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization for hip-hop culture, the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame & RhythmCultural Center, Inc. (d.b.a. RCI: The RhythmCultural Institute) in 1994. He further satisfies both his musical and political interests through service on the advisory board of the Archives of African-American Music & Culture at Indiana University, in Bloomington IN, and as a segment producer at the Pacifica Radio Foundation's WBAI-NY/99.5 FM, where he covers film, media, art, science, literature, and other subjects. Allen is currently developing a book on architecture, researching a documentary on hip-hop, and building the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame. He lives in Harlem.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Exhilarating and endlessly inspirational, the extraordinary dancers of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater have dazzled audiences from New York City to China with their thrilling fusion of power, grace, and unparalleled artistry. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater marks its 50th anniversary by bringing African-American cultural expression and the American modern dance tradition to the Fine Arts Center. The genius of Alvin Ailey forever changed the perception of American dance; the legacy continues in Judith Jamison's remarkable vision and the extraordinary artistry of the Company's dancers. Beauty, spirit, hope, and passion: this is the power of Ailey.
Wally Amos As the father of the gourmet chocolate chip cookie industry Wally Amos is a household name, first as founder of Famous Amos Cookies in 1975 and now the Uncle Noname Cookie Company. His fame is grounded in quality, substance, and a unique positive mental attitude. A nationally sought-after inspirational author and lecturer, Wally is also a television host on PBS. He has received the Horatio Alger Award and the President's Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence. In addition, he has used his fame to support educational causes. Since 1979 Wally has been National Spokesman for Literacy Volunteers of America. He is also a Board Member of the National Center for Family Literacy and Communities in Schools. He is the author of The Famous Amos Story, The Face That Launched A Thousand Chips, The Power In You, Ten Secret Ingredients To Inner Strength, which is a hopeful, inspirational book sharing Wally's philosophy and life experiences and his most recent book, Watermelon Magic: Seeds of Wisdom, Slice of Life, where he uses watermelon as a metaphor for life, sharing his personal path to wisdom, humor, joy and a positive outlook on life.
John Amos John Amos is best known for his popular character role of James Evans in the hit CBS sitcom Good Times. His other hit television roles include Kunta Kinte on the hit CBS miniseries Roots. John Amos guest starred on NBCs Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Foxs Martin, and In The House with LL Cool J. His notable film roles include Major in Die Hard 2: Die Harder with Bruce Willis and co-starring with Denzel Washington in the box office hit Ricochet. As a writer and artist, John Amos conceived and wrote Halleys Comet, his critically acclaimed one-man show, which he launched at the American Stage Company to exceptional reviews and sold out houses. The show has toured in over 480 cities throughout the United States and abroad, receiving standing ovations from Washington, DC and London, England. John Amos continues to star in one hit after the next. He starred five seasons on NBCS Emmy Award-winning hit series, The West Wing, as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In the spring 2005, John Amos starred in the role of Dutch, an ex-convict biker in the independent feature VooDoo Moon, and recently with Kyla Pratt in Fox Motion Pictures Dr. DoLittle 3, starring as Jed Jones, Country Western Rancher. John Amos starred as the popular character of Buzz with actress Anne Heche in the hit ABC Dramedy Series, Men in Trees, directed by James Mangold, Director/Writer of the Oscar Winning Walk the Line.
An Evening of Jazz with Ramsey Lewis Jazz great,award-winning pianist,and the leader of the Ramsey Lewis Trio,Ramsey Lewis is available to play the piano in a jazz concert that will be the hit of the year.
Claud Anderson A leading intellectual, historian and economist, Dr. Claud Anderson is the author of the best selling books,Black Labor, White Wealth: A Search for Power and Economic Justice,; Dirty Little Secrets about Black History: It's Heroes & Other Trouble Makers; and PowerNomics: Unleashing Blacks Potential. Dr. Anderson is president of the Harvard Institute, a pro-active public policy research organization. He is igniting a national movement among Blacks for the economic, social and political solutions necessary to create an economically self-sufficient and competitive Black America.
Dr. David W. Anderson Dr. David W. Anderson is the Director of Home and Congregational Renewal at The Youth & Family Institute in Bloomington, MN. He has been one of the key individuals in developing a new paradigm for youth and family ministry, The Child In Our Hands Initiative, and resources to accompany it. He is also the co-developer of the Hand in Hand and Four Key Congregational Training events that tailor the Child In Our Hands Initiative to individual congregations. Dr. Anderson is an ecumenically and internationally recognized leader in faith and family life enrichment. In addition to working with numerous denominations across the United States, his ministry has also taken him to Canada, Australia, Norway, and Sweden.
Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr Juan is a Presidential Medal recipient, honored for “the performance of exemplary deeds of service for the nation”. The Medal was presented by President Bill Clinton for extraordinary accomplishments in promoting civic participation and leadership development. He has earned five college degrees: a B.A. from Howard Payne University, a M.Ed. from Antioch College, a Ed.S. and Doctorate from Northern Illinois University, and a post-doctorate M.A. from Loyola University Chicago. He has been recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Howard Payne and Northern Illinois, and received the Damon Award from the graduate school at Loyola University. He has also received four honorary degrees. He is President of the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute: The Institute has trained over 200,000 present & future leaders, registered over two million new voters, published 425 studies on Hispanic demographics, since 1982. USHLI sponsors the largest Latino leadership conference in the nation. Juan was a political commentator on ABC-7 television for six years in Chicago; the only Latino commentator in the nation appearing on English language radio or television. He has worked and participated in the democratization of Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Colombia, Paraguay, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and Haiti. He has been recognized three times as one of the 100 most influential Hispanics in America. He was inducted into the “Society of Life Models” by OMNI Youth Services for the impact of his work in promoting education and leadership development for high school and college students. He has received numerous awards for distinguished service and lifetime achievement.
Dr. Maya Angelou Dr. Maya Angelou chosen by President Bill Clinton, Dr. Maya Angelou delivered her dedicatory poem "On The Pulse of Morning" at the inaugural ceremony in January 1993. Considered one of our national treasures, and the author of many best-selling books, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, her performance/lecture stresses the value of ethnic, economic and religious diversity in all undertakings. A passionate and powerful speaker, Dr. Angelou challenges her audiences to invest their spirits and hearts in the elevation of the human condition. Dr. Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature and as a remarkable Renaissance woman. A poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director, Dr. Angelou continues to travel the world making appearances on college campuses, spreading her legendary wisdom. A mesmerizing vision of grace, swaying and stirring when she moves, Dr. Angelou captivates her audiences lyrically with vigor, fire and perception. She has the unique ability to shatter the opaque prisms of race and class between reader and subject throughout her books of poetry and her autobiographies. Dr. Angelou has authored numerous best-selling books, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Even The Stars Look Lonesome. In 1981, Dr. Angelou was appointed to a lifetime position as the first Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University. In January 1993, she became only the second poet in U.S. history to have the honor of writing and reciting original work at the Presidential Inauguration. Dr. Maya Angelou and Hallmark Cards, Inc. have collaborated to make a gift selection that offers inspiration, hope and joy. Now available in select Hallmark stores, the collection features vases, pilows, wind chimes, frames and other charming trinkets. With compassion and candor, Dr. Angelou's works speak to the heart, encouraging us to love life, to perservere through its challenges and to share our gifts with others.
Greg Anthony Former NBA guard Greg Anthony joined ESPN in November 2002 as a studio analyst for the network's NBA coverage. He appears on all of ESPN and ESPN2's NBA studio shows including the NBA Shootaround - a half-hour pre-game studio program leading into the Friday doubleheaders, the update segments during Wednesday night game telecasts, and ESPN2s NBA Fastbreak and NBA Fastbreak Tuesday. Anthony joined ESPN after 12 seasons in the NBA. Selected by the New York Knicks as the 12th pick overall in the 1991 NBA draft, Anthony played for seven teams - Knicks, Vancouver Grizzlies, Seattle Supersonics, Portland Trail Blazers, Chicago Bulls and the Milwaukee Bucks. His 130 consecutive games with an appearance remains the Blazers longest streak. Anthony was well known in the league for his defense and on-the-court toughness. A natural leader, he captained the Grizzlies from 1994 to 96 and serves as the first vice president for the National Basketball Players Association (2000-present). Anthony was the co-captain of the 1990 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship team, the UNLV Rebels. The next season, he led the Rebels through the season without a loss before falling to the Duke Blue Devils in the NCAA title game. Anthony tallied, 1,301 points in his collegiate career and holds UNLV records in assists (838) and steals (275). His #50 UNLV jersey was retired on November 7, 2006. In college, Anthony was a national vice chairman for the Young Republicans (1989-91). In the summer of 1989, he interned on Capitol Hill for U.S. Rep. Barbara Vucanovich (R-Nev.). Anthony was appointed by President George Bush in 1990 to serve as a special assistant to the Ambassador of the Economic World Summit (G-7) in Houston, Texas. From teamwork & communication to politics & social awareness, Anthony's charisma and intellect make him one of the most popular guest speakers in the country.
John Artis Arrested with Rubin "Hurricane" Carter in 1966, and convicted of a triple murder that he did not commit. At the time of his arrest, Artis was 19 years old, preparing to attend college on a track scholarship and dreaming of making the U.S. Olympic track team. Artis was offered his freedom if he would falsely testify against Carter, but he refused to lie to prosecutors. After spending fifteen years in prison, he was exonerated and now lives in Virginia and works with troubled youth. He is a man who does not know the meaning of the word resentment. Without question, he is one of the most uplifting and motivational speakers you will ever come across.
Ashford and Simpson One of the most popular and respected duos in American music,Ashford and Simpson have as performers, songwriters and producers created an unprecedented catalog of chart-topping hit singles for themselves and others, collecting twenty-two gold and platinum records and more than fifty ASCAP Awards. They deliver a powerful motivational lecture, "From Rags to Riches," interspersed with their popular songs.
Byllye Avery A dreamer, visionary, and grassroots realist, Ms. Avery combines activism and social responsibility by developing a national forum for the exploration of health issues of African-American women. By gathering and documenting African-American women's health experiences she is providing a supportive atmosphere for African-American women. Prior to her entry into the health care arena, Ms. Avery taught special education to emotionally disturbed students and consulted on learning disabilities in public schools and universities throughout the southeastern United States.
Michael Baisden Michael Baisden a author, motivational speaker, former TV talk show host, and host of his own nationally-syndicated radio show. Baisdens first book, Never Satisfied: How and Why Men Cheat, was released under a Vanity Press label. In 2001, he made a series of promotional appearances on daytime talk shows. He was also host of his own short-lived syndicated talk show entitled Talk or Walk in 2001. Currently, Baisden is host of the nationally-syndicated radio program "Love, Lust, and Lies
Dennis Banks Native American leader, activist, teacher, lecturer and co-founder of the American Indian movement (AIM). He is the author of his autobiography, Sacred Soul.
Amiri Baraka Amiri Barakas standing as a major poet is matched by his importance as a cultural and political leader. As leader of the Black Arts movement of the 1960s, Baraka did much to define and support black literature's mission into the twenty-first century. Writers from other ethnic groups credit Baraka with opening "tightly guarded doors" in the white publishing establishment. Baraka, known as LeRoi Jones until 1967, writes with a style that is confrontational, calculated to shock and awaken audiences to the political concerns of black Americans. Baraka's own political stance has changed several times, each time finding expression in his plays, poems, and essays so that his works can be divided into periods; a member of the avant garde during the 1950s, Baraka became a black nationalist, and later a Marxist with socialist ideals. Preface to a Twenty Volume Suicide Note, Baraka's first published collection of poems, appeared in 1961. Throughout, the poet shows his integrated, Bohemian social roots. With the rise of the civil rights movement Baraka's works took on a more militant tone, and he began a reluctant separation from his Bohemian beginnings.
Tiki Barber Tiki Barber Former NFL Pro Bowl Running Back, NBC Broadcaster is the unique individual who combines a stellar portfolio of athletics and broadcasting with a captivating story-telling presence at the podium. He is a renaissance man without equal today, as evidenced by a resume that includes: NBC correspondent, Pro Bowl running back, Sirius Satellite radio host, author, producer, actor, corporate spokesman, scholar and philanthropist. Barber joined NBC Universal in 2007 on the heels of his Hall of Fame-caliber NFL career. A three-time Pro Bowler, he will split time as a correspondent for the "Today" show and as an analyst for NBC`s "Football Night in America," while also contributing to the 2008 and 2010 Olympics. In 10 seasons on the gridiron, Barber joined Marshall Faulk and Marcus Allen as the only players in NFL history with at least 10,000 yards rushing and 5,000 yards receiving. He retired ranking third all-time in yards per carry (4.7) and 10th all-time in yards from scrimmage (15,632; rushing and receiving). Barber holds every conceivable Giants rushing record--total yards, rushing yards, rushing attempts and rushing touchdowns--and in his final regular-season game broke his own franchise single-game rushing mark with 234 yards, in a win vs. the rival Washington Redskins. A tireless entertainer and communicator, during his playing days Barber was a weekly co-host on FOX News Channel`s morning program "FOX and Friends" (2005-07). He further debunks the jock stereotype as a co-host of "Ronde and Tiki`s Barber Shop," broadcast on Sirius Satellite radio with his twin brother/fellow NFL'er. Previously, Tiki also hosted "The National Sweep with Tiki Barber," a radio program delving into politics, news and entertainment that featured guests including: John McCain, U.S. Senator; Matt Lauer, host of the "Today" show; Rear Admiral Kenneth P. Moritsugu, U.S. Surgeon General; and Daniel Kurtzer, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel. As active in the community as he was on the gridiron, Barber devotes generous time and money to the Children`s Miracle Network, the Fresh Air Fund and the Robin Hood Foundation, among others. A staunch advocate for literacy, he has co-authored with Ronde three successful children`s books, and is under contract to write a motivational memoir and two young-adult novels.
Lester Barrie Popular comedian who was the host of BET's "Comic View" for two years. He has also performed on "Def Comedy Jam" and sparked standing ovations on "Showtime at the Apollo".
Daniel Beaty Actor, singer, writer, and composer Daniel Beaty has worked throughout the US, Europe, and Africa in a variety of styles ranging from television to solo concerts to theatrical productions to opera including performance at The White House, The Kennedy Center in tribute to Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, and The Apollo. This fall Daniel completed a highly acclaimed soldout extended run of his one man play Emergence-See! off-Broadway at the Public Theater. Awards include 2007 Obie Award for Outstanding Writing and Performance, 2006 Ovation, Acclaim, & Everyday Freedom Hero Awards. Daniel is also the 2004 Grand Slam Champion at the world famous Nuyorican Poet's Cafe and The Fox Networks National Redemption Slam Champion. Daniel's writings and compositions have been performed at The Public Theater, Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), New York Theater Workshop, La Mama, American Conservatory Theater, Yale University, The NAACP National Convention, The SCLC National Convention, and various other venues. His show Emergence-SEE! has been reviewed as a "brilliant, spellbinding performance" by the Amsterdam News and "a dazzling 90 minutes, full of memorable moments, intense, hilarious" by the New York Times.
Harry Belafonte The consummate entertainer, Belafonte is a world-renowned recording artist ,Broadway, movie and TV star and globally respected human rights activist. The winner of countless awards for his work as an artist and humanitarian, he continues to fight against injustice throughout the world.
Derrick Bell An eminent law professor and legal scholar, Derrick Bell has spent his professional life in various areas of civil rights work; litigation, administration, teaching and scholarship. After an early career as a Justice Department lawyer,Professor Bell joined the Harvard Law School faculty and became its first Black tenured member. He left his position at Harvard to protest the school's failure to hire and tenure women of color on the faculty. He is the author of such books as Confronting Authority; and Gospel Choirs: Psalms Survival In An Alien Land Called Home.
Bill Bellamy Well known comedian and actor.
Regina Belle Well known jazz singer, Regina Belle presents an evening of musical entertainment.
Vernon Bellecourt Vernon is a principal spokesman for the American Indian Movement and a leader in actions ranging from the 1972 occupation of the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington to the 1992 Redskin Superbowl demonstrations. He is Co-founder and first Executive Director of the Denver AIM Chapter. His involvement at Wounded Knee in 1973 led to a Federal indictment. He is a special representative of the International Indian Treaty Council and helped organize the first Treaty Conference in 1974. He was jailed for throwing his blood on the Guatemalan Embassy to protest the killing of 100,000 Indians. He was elected to a 4-year term in his White Earth tribal government and developed a model program for the spiritual education of Indian prisoners. Vernon is President of the National Coalition on Racism in Sports & Media and recipient of the City of Phoenix, Martin Luther King Human Rights Award 1993.
Clyde Bellecourt Clyde is a founder and Director of the American Indian Movement. He was a major figure in the occupation of Wounded Knee in 1973 and played a founding role in an ongoing Indian School System, Legal Rights Center and the International Indian Treaty Council. He is also directing the Peacemaker Center for Indian youth and the AIM Patrol which provides security for the Minneapolis Indian community. He is an organizer of the National Coalition on Racism in Sports and the Media. He is founder and currently Chairman of the Board of American Indian OIC, an innovative job program that has moved over 14,000 people from welfare to full-time employment. Clyde sees a bright future: "This generation of little children is the 7th Generation.
Yosef Ben-Jochannan Well known Black historian, cultural anthropologist and author. Dr. Ben was adjunct professor at Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, for over a decade (1976–1987). He has written and published over forty-nine books and papers, revealing much of the information unearthed while he was in Egypt. Two of his better known works include, Black Man of the Nile and His Family and Africa: Mother of Major Western Religions. In 1939, shortly after receiving his undergraduate degree, Dr. Ben's father sent him to Egypt to study first hand the ancient history of African People. Since 1941, Dr. Ben has been to Egypt at least twice a year. He began leading educational tours to Egypt in 1946. When asked why he began the tours, he replied "because no one knew or cared about Egypt and most believed Egypt was not in Africa." According to Dr. Ben, Egypt is the place to go to learn the fundamentals of living. Over five decades have passed and Dr. Ben, a preeminent scholar and Egyptologist, remains focused on Nile Valley Civilization.
Dr. Bernita Berry An outspoken advocate for people of color, prominent sociologist Dr. Bernita Berry is one of America's leading authorities on race, ethnic relations, gender, class and public policy issues. She lectures extensively on such topics as African American History, how to cope in a predominately white environment; cultural diversity; women and people of color in America.
Dr. Bertice Berry Comedian, motivational speaker, sociologist and talk-show host. Dr. Bertice Berry combines inspiration, folk wisdom, humor and pathos in her lecture presentation. She is the author of Bertice: The World According To Me; and Sckraight from the Ghetto: You Know You're Ghetto If...
Lonise Bias Mother of former star basketball player Lenny Bias, who died from a cocaine overdose. A motivating and powerful speaker, Lonise Bias lectures on the horrors of drug abuse and chemical dependency.
Dr. Keith Black An internationally renowned African-American neurosurgeon and scientist, Keith Black is chairmen of the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of California and Director of Neurology at Mt. Sinai Medical Center. In the fall of 1997 he was featured on the cover Time magazine special edition of "Heroes in Medicine."
Black Life in Corporate America An acclaimed author and dynamic speaker, George Davis captivates audiences throughout the country with his motivating message on diversity. His book, Branches, which chronicles the progress of African Americans since the civil rights movement, is being developed into a television series. His best seller, Black Life in Corporate America, has been praised by critics nationwide. His presentation takes an in-depth look at social, cultural and personal factors created by racial diversity in public and private sector management.
John Gray.... BLACK, WHITE & GRAY A psychodrama, presented by John Gray, confronts issues related to stereotyping, bigotry, affirmative action and social "isms". He con-ducts seminars for business, university, government and profes-sional organizations on developing skills and awareness on human relations in a multi-cultural society. The John Gray program goes beyond the black/white and male/female confrontations that tend to block communication.
Black, White & Gray: A New Look At Color Educator, consultant and expert on diversity, John Gray is introduced as "an expert on human relations." He spikes his presentation with ethnic jokes, racial and religious slurs, and sexist remarks. Unbeknownst to his audience, John Gray is not what he seems-a conservative businessman with straight hair, green eyes and pale skin-in fact, he is a Black man who challenges racial and gender stereotyping and bigotry. Corporations and universities benefit from the "John Gray" program in developing sensitivity and awareness in today's culturally diverse society.
Michael K. Blackson Considered one of the most original foreign comics in the United States. Michael Blackson, known as The African King of Comedy, hails from West Africa and has become one of the most outstanding and original comedians in this country. Blackson has appeared on BET's ComicView, HBO's Snaps, Uptown Comedy Hour, BET's Live From LA and Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam.
Norm Bond An authority on diversity issues, Norm Bond is the co-founder of Next Step Enterprises and the publisher and general manager of NEXT STEP MAGAZINE, a quarterly international magazine devoted to multiculturalism and diversity. Topics: Forging New Frontiers: Making the Business Case for Diversity; Maximizing Multiculturalism: How to Profit from Diversity; How to Manage Diversity into a Competitive Advantage; Viewing Diversity as an Opportunity not a Threat; From Plan to Profit: Key Elements of Entrepreneurial Success; Self Empowerment: Developing Your Power Perspective; and Motivation: Your Fuel for Optimum Performance.
Julian Bond From his student days to his current Chairmanship of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Julian Bond has been an active participant in the movements for civil rights and economic justice. As an activist who has faced jail for his convictions, as a veteran of more than 20 years service in the Georgia General Assembly, a university professor and a writer, he has been on the cutting edge of social change since 1960. He was a founder, in 1960 while a student at Morehouse College of the Atlanta student sit-in and anti-segregation organization and of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). As SNCC's Communications Director, Bond was active in protests and registration campaigns throughout the South. Elected in 1965 to the Georgia House of Representatives, Bond was prevented from taking his seat by members who objected to his opposition to the Vietnam War. He was re-elected to his own vacant seat and un-seated again, and seated only after a third election and a unanimous decision of the United States Supreme Court. He was co-chair of a challenge delegation from Georgia to the 1968 Democratic Convention. The challengers were successful in unseating Georgia's regular Democrats, and Bond was nominated for Vice-President, but had to decline because he was too young. Bond serves as Chairman of the Premier Auto Group PAG (Volvo, Land Rover, Aston-Martin, and Jaguar) Diversity Council and is on the Boards of People for the American Way, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Council for a Livable World, and the advisory board of the Harvard Business School Initiative on Social Enterprise, among others. He was a commentator on America's Black Forum, the oldest black-owned show in television syndication. His poetry and articles have appeared in numerous publications. He has narrated numerous documentaries, including the Academy Award winning "A Time For Justice" and the prize-winning and critically acclaimed series "Eyes On The Prize." He has served since 1998 as Chairman of the Board of the NAACP, the oldest and largest civil rights organization in the United States. In 2002, he received the prestigious National Freedom Award.
Julia Boyd Best selling author and psychotherapist, Julia Boyd has written such highly acclaimed books as, Can I Get a Witness; For Sisters When the Blues is More Than a Song, and Embracing the Fire! Sisters Talk About Sex and Relationships.
Keith Boykin Keith Boykin is the editor of The Daily Voice online news site, a CNBC contributor, a BET TV host and a New York Times best-selling author of three books. Educated at Dartmouth and Harvard, Keith attended law school with President Barack Obama and served in the White House as a special assistant to President Bill Clinton. Keith has been actively involved in progressive causes since he worked on his first congressional campaign while still a student in high school. He is a veteran of six political campaigns, including two presidential campaigns, and he was named one of the top instructors when he taught political science at American University in Washington. Keith has traveled extensively across four continents, and in 1997 President Clinton appointed him, along with Coretta Scott King and Rev. Jesse Jackson, to the U.S. presidential trade delegation to Zimbabwe. He was a star on the 2004 Showtime television series American Candidate and has since appeared on numerous national media programs, including Anderson Cooper 360, The O'Reilly Factor, The Tyra Banks Show, The Montel Williams Show, Judge Hatchett and The Tom Joyner Morning Show. A founder and first board president of the National Black Justice Coalition, Keith has spoken to audiences, large and small, all across the world. He delivered a landmark speech to 200,000 people at the Millennium March on Washington and he gave a stirring speech about the AIDS epidemic in front of 40,000 people in Chicago's Soldier Field in July 2006. Each of Keith's three books has been nominated for a Lambda Literary Award, including his most recent book, Beyond the Down Low: Sex, Lies and Denial in Black America. Keith won the Lambda Literary Award for his second book, Respecting The Soul, while his first book, One More River to Cross, is taught in colleges and universities throughout the country. Keith is an associate producer of the 2007 feature film Dirty Laundry and is working on his fourth book. Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Keith currently lives in New York City.
Kevin Bozeman Kevin uses his high-energy act and knack for the obvious to give a unique perspective on traveling, dating, social and controversial issues. No subject is sacred from his hilarious truths. He is quickly working his way to the top headlining comedy clubs throughout the country. Don’t be surprised if you see Kevin Bozeman appearing in the next big sit-com. Kevin has appeared on Comedy Centrals Comics Come Home, Premium Blend, opened for Aretha Franklin and was a 1999 winner of the HBO Comedy Competition
Wayne Brady Wayne Brady is perhaps one of the funniest comedic actors on TV. His hilarious improvisational antics, paired with his ability to impersonate just about anyone, have won the laughs of many Americans on ABC's hit comedy series "Whose Line is it Anyway?"Wayne scored a second Emmy Award nomination in 2002 for his work on "Whose Line is it Anyway" in the category of Best Individual Performance in a Variety or Musical. He has received several other accolades for his work in theater, including nominations for Best Actor in a Musical for "Cotton Patch Gospel" at the distinguished Edyth Bush Theatre. Wayne was also named Sak Theatre's 1992 Rookie of the Year for Theatre Sports/Improv. He continues to tour the country with his own improv show, "Wayne Brady and Friends," selling out the nations top theaters and venues. In addition, he and his wife Mandie recently opened a four-week run of the stage production, "The Only Game in Town" in Los Angeles. The Daily Variety called Wayne's performance as compulsive gambler Joe Grady "an absolute winner."
Dahlak Brathwaite Dahlak Brathwaite is a 19-year old emcee, actor, poet and playwright originally from Sacramento, California. Since entering the spoken word scene in 2003, Brathwaite has won the San Francisco Youth Speaks Teen Poetry Slam two years in a row (2004 & 2005). He was also a member of the Berkeley Slam Team that won the Brave New Voices' International Slam in 2004. A member of Ill-Literacy, a San Francisco-based spoken word collective, Brathwaite has performed at universities including Stanford, Loyola Marymount and Berkeley, and has opened for such esteemed artists as Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Goapele, Michael Franti, and Dead Prez. He is also a mentor at Youth Speaks, the San Francisco-based spoken word collective, where he recently helped launch the organization's First Word Productions arm with the release of Innerworks Mixtape Vol.1 - a compilation of hip-hop and R&B songs featuring Brathwaite and two-time Def Poet Rafael "A.D." Casal. He also helped co-write and perform in Scourge, a play by Broadway vet Marc Bamuthi Joseph, which headlined the San Francisco Hip-Hop Theater Festival. In 2005, Brathwaite will be touring with the Scourge Company, releasing a solo hip-hop/spoken word album on First Word Productions, and continuing to write and perform poetry, music, and plays.
Rosemary Bray Journalist and writer, Rosemary Bray is the author of the critically acclaimed book Unafraid of the Dark, a powerful memoir of growing up on welfare in Chicago's Black Belt, her triumphant rise to a Yale degree, and becoming a respected journalist in New York
Donna Brazile Donna Brazile is one of the best known, most influential African American women in modern American political life. She is Chair of the Democratic National Committee's Voting Rights Institute (VRI), an organization established in 2001 to help protect and promote the rights of all Americans to participate in the political process. Donna Brazile is the author of Cooking with Grease: Stirring the Pots in American Politics, a memoir about her life in the political arena, and co-author of What We Do Now, which was published by Melville House in 2004. Donna Brazile, a well-versed Democratic political strategist, made history as the first African American women to lead a major presidential campaign when she served as Campaign Manager for Gore-Lieberman 2000. Prior to joining the Gore campaign, Brazile was Chief of Staff and Press Secretary to Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District of Columbia where she helped guide the District's budget and local legislation on Capitol Hill. A veteran of numerous national and statewide campaigns, Brazile worked on several presidential campaigns for Democratic candidates, including Carter-Mondale in 1976 and 1980, Rev. Jesse Jackson's first historic bid for the presidency in 1984, Mondale-Ferraro in 1984, U.S. Representative Dick Gephardt in 1988, Dukakis-Bentsen in 1988, and Clinton-Gore in 1992 and 1996; and Gore-Lieberman 2000. Donna Brazile is a weekly contributor and political commentator for CNN, a political consultant for ABC News, and a contributor to NPR's Political Corner. She is also a columnist for Roll Call Newspaper and Ms. Magazine. In addition to working at VRI, Donna Brazile serves as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University. She has served as a senior lecturer at the University of Maryland, resident fellow at Harvard University's Institute of Politics and as the Senator Wyona Lipman Chair at Rutgers University Center for American Women in Politics. Donna Brazile is the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including Washingtonian Magazine's 100 Most Powerful Women in Washington, D.C., Essence Magazine's 50 Most Powerful Women in America and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Award for Political Achievement. Brazile, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana earned her undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge in 1981 and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Louisiana State University in May 2005. Firmly grounded in her humble Louisiana roots, Donna Brazile is a fierce advocate for the poor and minorities. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, the guiding agency charged with addressing the state's recovery after Hurricane Katrinia.
Hypno Bro Even with a degree in Architecture, its hard to believe there was ever a time Leroy Williams considered not being a performer. In place at a nice secure government job with the Corps of Engineers in Norfolk, Virginia, Leroy stumbled into an open mic night at a local comedy club...and took first place. After winning a gig as the MC, Leroy was hooked. Bitten, but still practical, Leroy did not commit to standup until returning to his home town of Houston, Texas in 1991, the mecca of comedy in the southwest US. Leroy became a regular at the Comedy Place, which proved a great training ground. Even though the audience only consisted of 3 to 150 patrons, the show went on. You could be called on to MC or headline with no advance notice. You either worked hard at becoming a better comedian or got left back in the pack of also rans and could have beens. Leroy paid his dues the old-fashioned way...by working the road. The experience proved invaluable as Leroy climbed through the ranks to headline such notable clubs as Pierce St. Annex in Anchorage, Alaska. The Punchline and Bobbys Comedy Corner in Houston, Texas, The Comedy Lift in Omaha, Nebraska. His international performances include Germany, Italy, Japan and Korea. Having appeared on BETS Comic View numerous times and opening for such notable acts as Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer and D.C. Curry. Leroy added hypnosis to his repertoire to the delight of audiences in clubs, colleges and corporate events nationwide. One of my most favorite entertainers, he slips from comedian to hypnotist in a fast paced show that leaves you wanting more. Linda CunninghamTake a Break Cruises and Travel Arguably the only black stand-up comedian/hypnotist in the country (if you dont count baptist preachers). Leroys show can be tailored to fit your needs for all ages and any venue. With a mixture of urban contemporary observational comedy, hip-hop, hypnotic improvisation and undeniable stage presence, HynoBro is guaranteed to bring Da Laffs. Hypnosis has just added a new flavor. So lets all get HypBrotized.
Jim Brown All-American football and lacrosse player who starred for Syracuse University, Jim Brown was one of the greatest running backs in NFL history with the Cleveland Browns. An inspiring and motivational speaker, Brown founded Amer-I-Can, a self-help program aimed at prison inmates and street gangs.
Tony Brown Called "television's civil rights crusader," Tony Brown is a distinguished producer, educator, writer and film director. His Tony Brown's Journal on PBS was selected as one of the top ten television shows in history presenting positive African-American images. He is the author of Empower the People: A 7-Step Plan to Overthrow the Conspiracy That Is Stealing Your Money and Freedom. Tony Brown is considered by many to be a true renaissance man, cultural diversity consultant, TV journalist/commentator, self-help advocate, radio talk show host, keynote speaker, syndicated columnist, media entrepreneur, film director, educator and author. His efforts in all arenas have garnered national recognition and support. His first book, Black Lies, White Lies: The Truth According to Tony Brown, was published in 1995 and offers an innovative plan for making America more competitive and helping the country solve its race problem. It also examines his Team America concept and discusses cultural diversity as America's industrial salvation. Brown is also the author of Empower The People: A 7-Step Plan to Overthrow the Conspiracy That is Stealing Your Money and Freedom.
Cocoa Brown Being called one of the funniest ladies to hit the comedy scene in recent years,this sista is bringing the noise…and the truth to audiences all over the world. Sharing experiences of her own as well as her family friends and basically anyone, this crazy child is making a serious roar in the jungle we call stand-up comedy. Now that you’ve entered the website Cocoa Brown just wants to know one thing…
Elaine Brown Elaine Brown is a former leader of the Black Panther Party, and author of A Taste of Power and The Condemnation of Little B. — A Taste of Power was optioned in January 2007 by HBO in connection with its six-part series The Black Panthers, now in development. # Brown is presently co-authoring For Reasons of Race and Belief, The Trials of Jamil Al-Amin (formerly H. Rap Brown) with Karima Al-Amin (for 2010 publication by Basic Books), and is completing the non-fiction book Melba and Al, A Story of Black Love in Jim Crow America, slated for publication in 2009 (Seven Stories Press). She is the editor of Messages from Behind the Wall, a collection of autobiographical essays by black prisoners in New Mexico, published in February 2007 by the New Mexico Department of African American Affairs.In 1996, after living seven years in France, Brown moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she established the nonprofit education corporation Fields of Flowers. In 1997, Brown co-founded Mothers Advocating Juvenile Justice, and, in 2002, co-founded and became a Board member of the National Alliance for Radical Prison Reform. Presently, Brown is a member of the Georgia Geechee Council, a partner in Seize the Time, Inc., a member of the Committee to Free Romaine "Chip" Fitzgerald, and a partner in The Toubakolong Partnership (The Gambia).In November 2005, Brown ran for mayor of Brunswick, Georgia, with the intent of using the office to create a base of economic power for the city's majority black and poor population through redistribution of the massive revenues of the city's port. She is co-founder of the Brunswick Women's Association for a People's Blueprint.Brown is Executive Director of the Michael Lewis Legal Defense Committee, supporting the legal appeal of Lewis ("Little B"), who, arrested at the age of 13 for a murder he did not commit, was convicted and sentenced to life in prison (1997). Brown regularly lectures at colleges and universities throughout the country on "New Age Racism" and realization of the vision of eliminating racism, gender oppression and class disparity toward an inclusive and egalitarian world society. A fluent French speaker, Brown has traveled extensively throughout the world, from China, North Korea, Vietnam, Cuba, Algeria to France, Italy, Russia, Argentina, Uruguay, and elsewhere. Brown, who studied classical piano for years, has recorded two albums of original songs, one for Motown records, Until We're Free, and her 1969 album, Seize the Time, which includes "The Black Panther Party National Anthem" (The Meeting), re-released as a CD in January 2007 by Warner Bros.
Tony Burroughs Tony Burroughs is an internationally known genealogist, author, teacher and lecturer. He teaches genealogy at Chicago State University and is the president of Black Roots. Mr. Burroughs appeared as the African American genealogy expert in the public television series, Ancestors (February 1997). In 1996, he received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Genealogical Society and co-authored the African-American Genealogical Sourcebook (Gale Research 1995). Mr. Burroughs has been practicing genealogy for twenty years, having traced two family lines back seven generations. He has extensive experience in libraries, archives, historical societies and county courthouses. He has conducted the African-American Genealogy workshop at the National Archives – Great Lakes Region for nine years. He also lectures at local, state and national genealogical conferences and has given half-day and full-day workshops in over a dozen cities. He was the APG 20th Anniversary Luncheon Speaker at FGS in 1999, the Keynote Banquet Speaker at GENTECH 98 in Fort Wayne, and the James Dent Walker Memorial Lecturer in Richmond, Virginia in 1994. His talks are on all aspects of American Genealogy, African-American Genealogy and technology. His presentations include exciting color slides to bring family history alive. Mr. Burroughs is a graduate of the National Institute of Genealogical Research in Washington, D.C. and the Institute of Genealogy and History at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. Board positions include: New England Historic Genealogical Society, Association of Professional Genealogists, Gentech, and an FGS Delegate. Past board positions include: President of the Afro-American Genealogical & Historical Society of Chicago, Inc.; Federation of Genealogical Societies and the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society in Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Postal Advisory Committee. He is also past curator of the African-American Genealogy Collection at the Avalon Branch of the Chicago Public Library.
Vanessa Bell Calloway One of Americas hottest actors, Vanessa Bell Calloway has won critical acclaim for her portrayal of Jackie in the movie, What's Love Got to Do With It. Other movie roles have included Daylight starring Sylvestor Stallone, A Private Affair and Coming To America with Eddie Murphy. Vanessa is co-host of BET's new morning talk show, Oh Drama, which features news, information and celebrity guests.
Alexis Caputo Alexis Caputo is a Multidiscipline Performance Artist, Poet, Writer & Activist. Her artistic portfolio began in performance studies and educational theatre. Upon personal exploration, looking at the historical context of womens contributions in the arts and her contribution to the educational community where her instruction was received, she identified these experiences as chief in her emergence. The interest and strengthening endorsements of her work by theatre scholars Dr. Nancy Putnam-Smithner, Dr. Lowell Swortzell and Playwright, Karen Malpede, all whom she studied under, were instrumental and pivotal references. To this, she has steadily increased her voice beyond the university level as a writer and performance artist creating notable works for theatre. Her course to augment the womens movement in the arts is evident in her portfolio. Her work includes poetry, spoken word, narratives/texts, audio/media, dance (movement) and visuals (iconic symbols). She has created an impressive and distinct body of originally written and performance work, addressing human rights issues, political, cultural, gender, racial, class and social differences. This has enhanced her cultural awareness while entertaining, educating, sharing history and life-affirming work. Solo projects written and performed include SOULED OUT, Truths Carved from the Belly, Woman of the Drum, The Proud Pilgrim and Deconstruction & Deliverance, which toured at noteworthy off Broadway theaters in New York (Harlem Theatre Company, Henry Street Settlement/Abron's Art Center & Dixon Place). The Proud Pilgrim, Truths Carved from the Belly & SOULED OUT were presented at the Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center in Corona, New York. Woman of the Drum was presented at the Miami-Dade Cultural Center. She represented Delray Beach, Florida as a member of DADA Slam, an assembly of poets who performed at the National Poetry Championships in Madison, Wisconsin 2008. Her published journalism and writing portfolio are for the news houses: The Tribune & Nassau Guardian (Nassau, Bahamas) Broward Times, Miami New Times & the Miami Times.
Lamont Carey Lamont Carey was born in the heart of Southeast, Washington, DC. He is a businessman and entertainer. On stage he is a powerful performer with a delivery so electric that he has the ability to present an issue in such a way that it alters audiences’ perspective. He has featured as a spoken word artist in such places as the world renowned Lincoln Theater, Smithsonian, The Nuyorican Poets Café, The French Embassy, and The Cuban Embassy. He has toured and won several poetry slams. He has appeared in several films, plays, and most recently the HBO series The Wire” and Def Poetry Jam. He continues to leave his mark in spoken word arena with his debut CD” IMAGINE”. This is 14-tacks of pure energy and mind traveling that listener can’t help but to brace themselves for the next emotional rollercoaster that are sure to erupt with the next track. Mr. Carey also hosts his own internet radio show on blogtalkradio.com. The show is called, “Da Lamont Carey Show”. He is also a co-host of “freestyle Friday” with Host Mark Thompson on XM satellite radio channel 169 The Power.
Jordan Carlos Jordan Carlos is an All-American stand-up comedian who is most known for his role as Alan, Colberts black friend on The Colbert Report. He also co hosted the Nickelodean show MeTV. Carlos' performance is sure to knock the audience off their seats and leave them rolling on the ground in laughter.
Andrea Carmen Andrea is currently Executive Director of the International Indian Treaty Council. Much of her work involves expanding the support network for Indians throughout the hemisphere. She speaks fluent Spanish and has extensive experience working with Indigenous Peoples in North and Central America. She recently worked with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Rigoberta Menchu, at the First World Summit of Indigenous Peoples held in Guatemala during the coup d'etat. She also was an advisor to the World Council of Churches on their relationship with traditional Indian peoples. She lives in Chickaloon, Alaska and is past coordinator of the Native Alaskan Elders Sovereignty Network as well as current co-coordinator of the Chickaloon Village Environmental Protection Program. She consults with several Indian communities and organizations on economic and community development. She graduated from the U of California in Women's Studies and was selected "Speaker of the Year" by People Are Speaking in San Francisco.
Lorene Cary Award winning author, Lorene Cary is best known in literary circles for her book Black Ice, which she wrote about her two years boarding experience at St. Pauls School, a formerly all white, all male elite prep school in New Hampshire. She is the author of FREE!, a collection of true life Underground Railroad Stories for young readers; The Price of A Child, a 1995 novel chosen as a One Book, One Philadelphia selection by the citys mayor; and Pride. She is currently at work on her fifth book, Blackface. A Senior Lecturer in creative writing at the University of Pennsylvania, Cary is the founder of Art Sanctuary, a non profit performance series that brings black artists to speak and perform at the Church of the Advocate in North Philadelphia. With its partner Asian Arts Initiative, Art Sanctuary has won Pennsylvanias 2005 Governors Award in the Arts for Creative Community collaboration. For her writing and arts activism, Cary was awarded her citys highest civic honor, The Philadelphia Award. Her essays have appeared in Newsweek, Time, Essence, Mirabella, and other publications. She is president of the Union Benevolent Society. Cary lives in Philadelphia with her husband, the Rev. Robert C. Smith, and daughters Laura and Zoe.
Dr. Benjamin Chavis When Russell Simmons established the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN) to empower the Hip-Hop community to utilize their commanding cultural influence for freedom, justice and equality, he needed someone with a strong mind and commitment to youth, national civil rights experience, political skills, vast spiritual knowledge and an adept human touch to head up the organization. That man was Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, also known as Minister Benjamin Muhammad, who had already proved his mettle by organizing the historic New York Hip-Hop Summit in 2001. That two-day event an unprecedented meeting, according to the Los Angeles Times found Chavis and Simmons guiding industry hip-hop leaders, artists, and civil rights and political organizations towards an agreement on a series of initiatives and commitments that will affect the artistic and social landscape of American society and the global community, as a whole. One month later, the HSAN was born and Dr. Chavis was named President and CEO. Chavis comes to the HSAN with a professional history of solid principles, demonstrated courage and immense diversity. A native of Oxford, North Carolina, he holds a number of prestigious degrees: He received a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from University of North Carolina; a Master of Divinity, M.Div., magna cum laude, from Duke University; a Doctor of Ministry, D.Min., from Howard University; and completed course requirements for a Doctor of Philosophy, PhD, from Union Theological Seminary.
Da Chen Chinese-American best selling author of such highly acclaimed books as Colors of the Mountain; China's Son; Sounds of the River and Wandering Warrior. Colors of the Mountain, his first memoir was compared to Angela's Ashes and went on to become a New York Times best seller. Sounds of the River, the sequel to his first memoir, was published this year to rave international reviews. Da's first fiction for young readers, Wandering Warrior, is described by Variety, Hollywood's trade magazine, as a cross between Harry Potter and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, and will be made into a major motion picture by Warner Brothers. Topics: Asian Ways of Looking at the World; The Winning Tactics of Asian Culture; Healing of Soul and Healing of Body; Love, Peace and Reward.
Harlem Gospel Choir The world famous Harlem Gospel Choir is one of the pre-eminent gospel choirs in the world and travels the globe, sharing the joy of faith through its music, and raising funds for childrens charities wherever possible. The Choir was founded in 1986 by Allen Bailey, who got the idea for the Choir while attending a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the renowned Cotton Club in Harlem. The Choir has some of the finest singers and musicians from the many Black Churches in Harlem.
Sheyann Webb Christburg Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "Smallest Freedom Fighter" and co-author of the book, Selma, Lord, Selma. As an eight year old, Sheyann Webb-Christburg marched with Dr. King in the Selma March across the Edmund Pettus Bridge on March 7, 1965 known as "Bloody Sunday." Selma, Lord, Selma is the moving, often dramatic story of a young courageous girl who for three turbulent months in 1965 was caught up in the tumult of the civil rights demonstrations in Selma, Alabama. Sheyann is also a major part of "Eyes On The Prize," talking with Dr. King as a child and talking about her experience as an adult and the impact Dr. King made on her life. Disney Films recently produced a made-for-television movie about her experiences during the Selma march entitled "Selma, Lord, Selma".
Mystro Clark Mystro started going to local comedy clubs in Dayton Ohio, while attending University of Dayton. After graduation Mystro was activated with his Army Reserve Unit for desert Storm. When Mystro returned home instead of Medical School he decided to move to LA and become a professional comedian. Four years later he landed his first television series The Newz. The rest is history in the making.
Pearl Cleage Pearl Cleage is a fiction writer, playwright, poet, essayist, and journalist who has lived in Atlanta for more than thirty years. In her writing, Cleage draws on her experiences as an activist for AIDS and womens rights, and she cites the rhythms of black life as her muse. Cleages first novel, What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day, was an Oprah Book Club selection in 1998 and appeared on the New York Times best seller list for nine weeks. Cleage (pronounced cleg) was born on December 7, 1948, in Springfield, Massachusetts, the younger daughter of Doris Graham and Albert B. Cleage Jr. She grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where her father was a church pastor and played a prominent role in the civil rights movement. Many leaders of the movement passed through the Cleage house on their way to rallies and demonstrations in other cities in the Midwest and Northeast. After graduating from the Detroit public schools in 1966, Cleage enrolled at Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she majored in playwriting and dramatic literature. In 1969 she moved to Atlanta and enrolled at Spelman College, graduating in 1971 with a bachelors degree in drama. She later joined the Spelman faculty as a writer and playwright in residence and as a creative director. Also in 1969 she married Michael Lomax, an Atlanta politician and educator and the current president of Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana. They have one daughter, Deignan Njeri. The marriage ended in divorce in 1979. Cleage married Zaron W. Burnett Jr., writer and director for the Just Us Theater Company, in 1994.
Kathleen Cleaver Kathleen Cleaver, a major voice in the Black liberation movements of the 1960s and 70s, continues today, to speak out against racism, sexism and economic inequality. In 1966, Cleaver fist became active in the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). From 1967 to 1971, she was the Communications Secretary of the Black Panther Party and the first woman member of its Central Committee. After sharing years of exile with her former husband Eldridge Cleaver, she returned to the United States in late 1975. Since graduating from Yale Law School in 1987, Cleaver has combined legal work, teaching and activism. She has taught at numerous universities including Emory, Yale and Sara Lawrence. She served on the Georgia Supreme Court Commission on Racial and Ethnic Bias in the Courts and became a Board Member of the Atlanta-based Southern Center for Human Rights. She has been active in the campaigns to free death row prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal and former Panther Geronimo Pratt (released in 1997). Her writings and essays have appeared in numerous magazines, books and newspapers and her memoir, Memories of Love and War, is forthcoming from Random House.
Rosa Clemente Rosa Clemente Hip-Hop Activist Hip Hop journalist, activist. As a Black Puerto Rican she is dedicated to scholar-activism. It was her experiences at the University of Albany and Cornell University that led her to become a leading progressive voice for her generation. Rosa’s academic work has been dedicated to researching national liberation struggles inside the United States, with a specific focus on the Young Lords Party and the Black Liberation Army. Rosa has written for Clamor Magazine, The Ave. magazine, The Black World Today, The Final Call and numerous websites. She has been the subject of articles in the Village Voice, The New York Times, Urban Latino, and The Source magazines. She has appeared on CNN, C-Span, Democracy Now and Street Soldiers. In 2001 she was a youth representative at the United Nations World Conference against Xenophobia, Racism and Related Intolerance in South Africa and in 2002 was named by Red Eye Magazine as one of the top 50 Hip Hop Activists to look out for. In 2003 Rosa helped formed and coordinate of the National Hip Hop Political Convention that drew over 3000 activists brought together to create a national political agenda for the Hip Hop generation. Currently she is a radio host and producer with WBAI’s (99.5 FM/NYC), an organizer with the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, a Malcolm X Fellow with the Institute of the Black World, coordinator of the State of the Black world forums and the national spokesperson for the R.E.A.C.H. Hip Hop Coalition. She is a board member for the NYC based Brecht forum and is committees In 1995 she developed Know Thy Self Media Messengers, seeing a need for young people, particularly young people of color to be heard and taken seriously she began presenting workshops and lectures at colleges, universities, high schools, and prisons. In the past ten years she has presented at over 200 colleges, conferences and community centers on topics such as; African-American and Latino/a Intercultural Relations, Hip-Hop Activism, The History of the Young Lords Party, and Women, Feminism and Hip Hop. KTSP now includes an expanded college speakers bureau which has produced three major Hip Hop activism tours, Dare to Struggle, Dare to Win with M1 of dead prez and Fred Hampton Jr.; The ACLU College Freedom Tour with dead prez, DJ Kuttin Kandi, Mystic and comedian Dave Chapelle; and the Speak Truth to Power Tour a collaborative tour of award winning youth activists. Beginning August 14th 2006, she will become a contributor to Air Americas, On The Real, hosted by Chuck D and Gia Gareal.Currently she is a producer with WBAI’s (99.5 FM/NYC), an organizer with the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, spokesperson for the National Hip Hop Assembly.
Lucille Clifton Lucille Clifton is one of the most beloved and respected figures in American poetry today, widely acclaimed for her powerful explorations of race, womanhood, spirituality, and mortality. A major voice since her debut collection Good Times, in 1969, she has continued to portray the experiences of being an African-American, a woman, and a human with clarity and elegance. Her language, often described as "deceptively simple," strikes a nuanced balance between complexity of thought and economy of words. She has published 12 collections of her poetry, one autobiographical prose work and 19 children’s books, with more on the way. She received the National Book Award for Poetry for her book, Blessing the Boats (BOA 2000). Her most recent book of poems is Mercy (BOA 2005); other titles include Ordinary Woman, Quilting, and The Book of Light. Her work has been anthologized in close to 200 anthologies of poetry. Ms. Clifton has received many fellowships and awards for her poetry collections and children’s books, including the 2007 Ruth Lilly Prize, Shelley Memorial Prize, a Charity Randall Citation, an Emmy Award from the American Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, selection as a Literary Lion by the New York Public Library, a Lannan Achievement Award in Poetry and a Lila Wallace/Reader’s Digest Writer’s Award. Ms. Clifton served as distinguished Professor of Humanities and holder of the Hilda C. Landers Endowed chair in the Liberal Arts at St. Mary’s College of Maryland until her retirement in the fall of 2005. She continues to serve St. Mary’s as Professor emeritus and Friend to the College. She served as Poet Laureate of the State of Maryland from 1975-1985. She has appeared on the “Today Show,” “Sunday Morning” with Charles Kuralt, “The Power of the Word” with Bill Moyers and “Nightline” with Ted Koppel. Ms. Clifton serves on the board of Chancellors of the Academy of American Poets, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She is the only poet to have had two books nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in the same year.
Johnnetta Cole One of the most powerful well-regarded African American women in the US, Johnnetta B. Cole has a way with making history. Shes been the first female African American President of Spelman College, the first woman ever elected to the Board of Coca-Cola Enterprises, and the first African American woman to serve as Chair of the Board of United Way of America. In over 30 years in education, she has also served two US Presidents in leadership roles. As a scholar, author, and activist for social and economic justice, Cole spearheads breakthrough thinking about diversity, leadership, and womens issues. Now chairing the Johnnetta B. Cole Global Diversity & Inclusion Institute at Bennett College, she partners diversity with academic institutions, businesses, corporations, civic and community organizations, and government and global thought leaders. An inspiring force, Cole rallies everyone to embrace diversity as not only a moral and social value, but as a compelling case for business. She encourages audiences to move beyond the status quo to fully take advantage of the innovative and profitable ideas that stem from a more diverse workforce, membership, and student body. Barriers are meant to be broken and success will follow notes Cole: "How much better our world would be if each of us respected difference until difference doesn't make any more difference."
David Coleman Real-life date coach David Coleman sees plenty of parallels between Will Smith's character in the new movie Hitch and his own career helping others find love. Coleman says he has called himself The Dating Doctor since 1985. ... Meet a real-life 'Hitch' is known nationwide as The Dating Doctor and "America's Real-Life Hitch." He has been named the National Speaker of the Year on 10 separate occasions - 7 times by Campus Activities Magazine and 3 times by The National Association for Campus Activities. He recently won again for 2006! He is a highly sought after speaker, entertainer, and retreat facilitator. David received his Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology ('83) and his Master of Arts Degree in College Student Personnel Administration ('85) from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. His second book, Date Smart! How to Stop Revolving and Start Evolving in Relationships has remained a top seller. His third and fourth books, Let Your Leadership Speak and Leadership's Greatest Hits (both co-authored), offer experiences, strategies and ideas to expand your leadership potential. His most recent work, Making Relationships Matter, is an honest look at how to live a life with no regrets while getting the most from every day and every relationship in a post 9/11 world. David has been featured in such fine publications as Us Magazine, Glamour, Mademoiselle, Cosmopolitan, USA Today, Celebrity Living, The Wall Street Journal, The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Washington Post and The New York Times. David has appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS, WGN, Fox and CNN as well as hundreds of radio and television stations nationwide. He is a regular guest on Star 105.7 in Grand Rapids, Star 94 in Atlanta, MIX 105.1 in Orlando, KLITE in Bakersfield and The Big One, 700 WLW, in Cincinnati and has worked closely with MSN to promote their Streets and Trips software release and their Shopping.MSN.com website. From his appearances on radio, TV, live and in print, David has impacted more than 10,000,000 people worldwide. Audience members at more than 2,500 college campuses, conferences, single's organizations, churches, corporations and marriage encounter groups have experienced his energetic and entertaining programs.
James B. Comer Eminent child psychiatrist, educator, and director of the Yale University Child Study Center, James B. Comer is the author of such books as Beyond Black and White; Black Child Care; and Rallying the Whole Village: The Comer Process for Reforming Education.
John Conyers Influential U.S.Congressman, John Conyers was the first Black member of the powerful House Judiciary Committee.
Cynthia Cooper All Pro basketball star with the Houston Comets, Cynthia Cooper is now head coach of the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA.
Alycia Cooper Stand-Up Comedienne, Alycia Cooper, wrote the Top 10s for the #1 radio show in LA, "The Steve Harvey Morning Show," and has written for the likes of Russell Simmons, of Def Jam fame. She has penned a feature length screenplay and has worked on "The Dr. Phil Show, Wanda Does It, “Bands Reunited, The Magic Hour, "The Love Connection, "Men are From Mars, Women are from Venus," "Oh Drama," "The Grown-Ups" and "The Parkers. Alycia has been featured in Essence Magazine as a comedienne to watch! She has also warmed up audiences for Girlfriends and Wanda at Large. Stand Up Credits include BETs Comicview. Alycia has also been on NBCs “Last Comic Standing, "BET Live" and "Oh Drama." She has produced several successful reality shows and has a development deal with Buena Vista/ Disney.
Eric V. Copage Author of the best selling books, Black Pearls: Daily Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations for African Americans and Black Pearls Book of Love. Eric Copage is also the editor of The New York Times Magazine. Copage wrote one of the definitive books on Kwanzaa entitled Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Culture and Cooking. An inspiring, motivational speaker, Eric Copage has spoken frequently about Kwanzaa and Black culture at colleges and civic groups across the country.
Dr. Grace Cornish Well known relationship expert, image consultant, family therapist, Gracie Cornish delivers a positive message of self-reliance directed to women from all walks of life. She is the author of three books of empowerment for women: The Fortune of Being Yourself; Think and Grow Beautiful; and Radiant Women of Color and Womens Rights Womens Power, a book which has won critical acclaim as a total self-empowerment guide for Black women. A much sought after guest on the TV talk show circuit, she has appeared on "The Montel Williams Show," "Ricki Lake," "Rolanda" and NBC's "Positively Black."
Bill Cosby Bill Cosby is, by any standards, one of the most influential stars in America today. Whether it is through concert appearances or recordings, television or films, commercials or education, Bill has the ability to touch people's lives. His humor often centers on the basic cornerstones of our existence as he seeks to provide an insight into our roles as parents, children, family members, and men and women. Without resorting to gimmickry or low-brow humor, his comedy has a point of reference and respect for the trappings and traditions of great American humorists such as Charlie Chaplin, Will Rogers, W.C. Fields and Groucho Marx. It is the fusion of these qualities that resulted in one of television's biggest and most influential hits of the modern era, "The Cosby Show." In the publishing world, he has shattered records with each of his books. "Fatherhood," published by Doubleday/Dolphin in May 1986, became the fastest-selling hardcover book of all time. Booking Bill always assures a packed house and a most memorable event.
Ellis Cose Prominent journalist and contributing editor of Newsweek magazine where he writes on a broad range of subjects, including domestic policy, race and the press. Prior to that he served as editorial page editor and chairman of the editorial board at The New York Daily News. He is also on the board of contributors for USA Today and he writes essays for the newspaper. Ellis Cose is the author of five books on important social issues in America including "Color-Blind: Seeing Beyond Race In a Race-Obsessed World;" "A Man's World;" and "The Rage of a Privileged Class".Cose has appeared on The Today Show, Nightline, Dateline, ABC Evening News, Good Morning America, the PBS "Time to Choose" election special, Charlie Rose, CNN's Talk Back Live, and a variety of other nationally televised and local programs. He has also been interviewed for British, Brazilian and Canadian television. He is also a judge for the New York Public Library Helen Bernstein Book Award for Excellence in Journalism. Cose has received fellowships or individual grants from the Ford Foundation, The Andrew Mellon Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, the Aspen Institute for Humanistic Studies, and numerous journalism awards-including the University of Missouri medal for career excellence and distinguished service in journalism, four National Association of Black Journalists first place awards (for commentary and for magazine writing), and two Clarion awards (for commentary and writings on the incarceration crisis). He was also named the 2002 winner of the New York Association of Black Journalists' lifetime achievement award, winner of the 2003 award for best magazine feature from the National Association of Black Journalists as well as the winner of two New York Association of Black Journalists' first place 2003 awards for commentary and magazine features. In 2004 Cose was named the first recipient of the newly inaugurated annual Vision Award from the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education.
Shu Shu Costa Asian American author who has written extensivley about her connection and fascination for the people and the culture of her ancestors. Shu Shu Costa is the author of Lotus Seeds and Lucky Stars, a narrative of age-old wisdom and fables for Asian-American mothers and Wild Geese and Tea.
Dorothy Cotton Dorothy Cotton translates years of experience and learning into words and song bearing messages of hope. Through "Songs of the Movement," laughter and storytelling, Dorothy synthesizes the lessons from our history into a working vision for the future. Dorothy gets us to laugh, sing, and join together to create a more caring and humane world. Dorothy Cotton was the Education Director for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference for twelve years under the direct supervision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Working closely with Dr. King, Dorothy served on his executive staff and was part of his entourage to Oslo, Norway, where he received the Nobel Peace Prize. She served as the Vice President for Field Operations for the Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta. Dr. Cotton was the Director of Student Activities at Cornell University for nine years, and served as the Southeastern Regional Director of ACTION, the Federal Government's Agency for volunteer programs for three years. She holds a Masters Degree from Boston University in the area of Special Education. Dorothy has designed and conducted training programs for corporations, schools, universities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations working with well over 100,000 participants. She has delivered commencement speeches and has addressed students at hundreds of colleges and universities including The University of New England and Spelman College (both of which gave her an Honorary Doctorate degree for her public work), Stanford University, The Albuquerque Academy, Brown University, City College of New Jersey and many more.Dorothy was recently featured in an ABC special "The Century" with Peter Jennings. She has spoken and traveled extensively throughout the world, including India, Africa, the People's Republic of China, Switzerland, the former Soviet Union, and Vietnam. Dorothy serves as a valuable resource to organizations on diverse topics addressing race relations, multiculturalism/diversity, communication, personal development, spiritual growth, human relations, citizenship education, civic organizing for the 21st century and nonviolence education. Currently she is involved in the expansion of the National Citizenship School in conjunction with Civic Organizing, Inc. of Minnesota. Dorothy's upcoming book will focus on lessons from the historic citizenship education program and her work with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Arturo Cruz Former Nicaraguan Ambassador to the United States, Arturo Cruz is presently senior associate researcher at the Institute of Inter-American Studies in Florida. He was a member of the ruling Junta in Nicaragua where he ran for president of Nicaragua.
Miriam Cruz Deputy Assistant to the President for Hispanic Affairs during the Carter Administration. An advocate for both Hispanic and women's issues, Ms.Cruz has spent most of her life serving the Hispanic community.
Robert Cruz Tony is U.N. Liaison Officer and coordinates Treaty Council participation at the U.N. Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. He works with the U.N. Working Group on Indigenous Populations to complete the Universal Declaration on the Rights & Principles of Indigenous Peoples - a document that will establish a standard for countries to co-exist with Indigenous Peoples. In 12 years at the Treaty Council he has Coordinated Community Outreach and Research & Documentation and been Director of Operations. He has met Gorbachev, Arafat, Nelson Mandela} and other world leaders to discuss Indigenous Sovereignty, environmental degradation, religious freedom, torture and political persecution. A current focus is a U.N. study on nation/state violations of Treaties. At the 1993 U.N. World Conference on Human Rights, he helped successfully lobby countries to call for an International Decade of Indigenous Peoples. He helps build unity between Indigenous people of all colors by emphasizing their shared history and common vision for the future
Mark Curry Mark Curry is a actor and comedian known as the star of the ABC sitcom Hangin with Mr. Cooper. He also hosted Showtime at the Apollo for a brief time. Curry has also had a recurring role on The Drew Carey Show as Drew's boss at Winfred-Louder. He attended St. Joseph Notre Dame High School in Alameda, California and California State University, Hayward. He also did an episode of The Jamie Foxx Show as an eccentric driving instructor. Mark Curry was featured in Too Short's music video "I Ain't Trippin'", and is also featured in Bow Wows "Take You Home" video as a father trying to get his daughter a doll of the rapper. He was the host of Comedy Centrals Don't Forget Your Toothbrush in 2000. In 2004 he appeared on "Celebrity Mole Yucatan". He came in second place to Dennis Rodman. On April 17, 2006, an aerosol can that had fallen behind Curry's water heater exploded and Curry, who was doing laundry at the time, was burned on over 18% of his body, including his arm, back and side. He spent many months recuperating at his home. According to an Associated Press interview posted on CNN.com on February 17, 2007, Curry considered suicide after waking from a three-day, medically-induced coma, reportedly hoarding pain medication. After talking with comedian friends who made him laugh, such as Sinbad and Bill Cosby, he decided against suicide. He went on The Montel Williams Show to discuss this issue.
Steve Curwood Steve Curwood is the Executive Producer and Host of National Public Radios award-winning weekly environmental news program Living On Earth. Curwood's relationship with NPR goes back to 1979 when he began as a reporter and host of "Weekend All Things Considered." Curwood has also worked as a print and television journalist and is the recipient of a shared Pulitzer Prize for his work while at The Boston Globe. He has worked as an editor and reporter for the Bay State Banner and as contributing editor at Black Enterprise Magazine and the Boston Phoenix. Living On Earth is broadcast on over 260 stations nationwide and is heard in Pacific nations over the Armed Forces Radio Network. It has been awarded the Edward R. Murrow Award from the Radio and Television News Directors Association, the New York Festivals Award, a CINDY Award, and the National Federation of Community Broadcasters Community Program Awards. Curwood is currently at work on a new book, The Good News About Global Warming, which details the economic, social, ecological and national security benefits of facing the carbon emergency that threatens our entire civilization. Curwood is also the recipient of the 2003 Global Greens Award and the 2003 David Brower Award given by the Sierra Club for his creation of Living on Earth. He also received a 1992 New England Environmental Leadership Award for his work on promoting environmental awareness. The President of the World Media Foundation, Inc., he is also a lecturer in Environmental Science and Public Policy at Harvard University.
Chuck D As leader and co-founder of legendary rap group Public Enemy, Chuck D redefined rap music and hip hop culture with the release of PE's explosive debut album, Yo Bum Rush The Show, in 1987. His messages addressed weighty issues about race, rage and inequality with a jolting combination of intelligence and eloquence never seen before. Chuck D and Public Enemy were celebrated in the May 2004 issue of Rolling Stone magazine as one of the "fifty most important performers in rock & roll history." Chuck D is also a national spokesperson for Rock the Vote, the National Urban League, and the National Alliance for African American Athletes. He has appeared in numerous public service announcements for national peace and the Partnership for a Drug Free America. As he continues to work on commentary, music, and writing on rap, race, and reality, it is clear that there are few who have transcended music and have made an impact as loud of Chuck D.
Dance Theatre of Harlem Internationally acclaimed professional ballet company, the Dance Theatre of Harlem was established in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell, a former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet,as his personal committment to the people of Harlem following the assasination of Dr.Martin Luther King,Jr.
Tommy Davidson An actor, stand-up comedian, musician, and singer, Tommy Davidson's exceptional range has made him a rising force in entertainment. Perhaps best known as one of the original cast members of the hit television show "In Living Color," Davidson has parlayed that success into a flourishing motion picture career. Recently, Tommy starred in Spike Lee's Bamboozled where he received acclaim and praise for his turn as Womack/Sleep 'N Eats, a character which showcased his comedic and dramatic acting abilities. Most recently Tommy starred in Morgan Creek Productions' Juwanna Mann released in June 2002.
Guy Davis Multi-talented performer, Guy Davis, the son of Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, is an actor, playwright, musician and composer. Many people recognize Guy from his leading role in Harry Belafonte's movie, "Beat Street," or his portrayal of Dr.Josh Hall on the ABC daytime drama, "One Life To Live." Guy Davis presents a one-man show called "Mud Surfing" which is one human being's very personal view of the world as he grows up. He also performs a powerful play on drug addiction called "The Trial."
Angela Davis Angela Davis is known internationally for her ongoing work to combat all forms of oppression in the U.S. and abroad. Over the years she has been active as a student, teacher, writer, scholar, and activist/organizer. Professor Davis's political activism began when she was a youngster in Birmingham, Alabama, and continued through her high school years in New York. But it was not until 1969 that she came to national attention after being removed from her teaching position in the Philosophy Department at UCLA as a result of her social activism and her membership in the Communist Party, USA. In 1970, she was placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted List on false charges, and was the subject of an intense police search that drove her underground, and that culminated in one of the most famous trials in recent U.S. history. During her 16-month incarceration, a massive international "Free Angela Davis" campaign was organized, leading to her acquittal in 1972. Professor Davis' long-standing commitment to prisoners' rights dates back to her involvement in the campaign to free the Soledad Brothers, which led to her own arrest and imprisonment. Today, she remains an advocate of prison abolition and has developed a powerful critique of racism in the criminal justice system. She is a member of the Advisory Board of the Prison Activist Resource Center, and currently is working on a comparative study of women's imprisonment in the U.S., the Netherlands, and Cuba. During the last 25 years, Professor Davis has lectured in all 50 United States, as well as in Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and the former Soviet Union. Her articles and essays have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, and she is the author of five books, including Angela Davis: An Autobiography (1974); Women, Race & Class (1981); Women, Culture & Politics (1989); Blues Legacies and Black Feminism: Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday (1998); and The Angela Y. Davis Reader (1998). She is also the editor of If They Come In The Morning: Voices of Resistance (1971). Former California Governor Ronald Reagan once vowed that Angela Davis would never again teach in the University of California system. Today, she is a tenured professor in the History of Consciousness Department at the University of California, Santa Cruz. In 1994, she received the distinguished honor of an appointment to the University of California Presidential Chair in African American and Feminist Studies.
Clifton Davis Popular actor, gospel singer and entertainer who is best known for his role as Reverend Rueben Gregory on the hit NBC television series, Amen. Actor, producer, singer and songwriter are just a few of the titles tied to his marques name. As a big-screen actor, Chicago’s native son, Clifton Davis has been featured in such familiar flicks as Any Given Sunday, Kingdom Come and Spike Lee’s Crooklyn. On the small-screen, who can forget his most memorable character on the highly successful sitcom Amen, playing the role of the handsome, God-fearing minister, Reuben Gregory Probably, his most surprising achievement is as composer for the multi-platinum selling single and Grammy-nominated song he penned for the Jackson Five back in the day – Never Can Say Good-Bye. But that was then. Clifton Davis would remind you that he is an ordained minister with undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology. And even more importantly, Clifton has been an evangelist for the last thirty years of his life, preaching, teaching and singing about the goodness of the Lord, all over the world. Balancing saintly and secular duties as a witness for the Lord is no easy task. Rebuke from both Hollywood and the holy world is even at the door. But Clifton Davis seems to be an exception to the norms, receiving favor wherever he goes.
Joyce Davis Journalist and senior editor of Upscale Magazine, Joyce Davis writes about lifestyle oriented topics that are of interest to the African-American community including such hot button social issues as gentrification, media coverage of minorities, and male-female relationships.
DeRay Davis A born hustler from Chicagos inner-city, DeRay has made a name for himself in comedy with his standup and film and television appearances. Winner of the 2000 Comedy Central Laugh Riots Competition and a standout on the Cedric the Entertainer Tour and at the 2001 Montreal Just for Laughs Festival, DeRay spends most of his time building on his extensive resume of comedy clubs and colleges.
Darryl Davis He is not white. He's not even light-skinned. Make no mistake about it; he is black. Yet, Klan-Destine Relationships author Daryl Davis has come in closer contact with members of the Ku Klux Klan than most white non-members and certainly most blacks -- short of being on the wrong end of a rope. What's more? He continues to do so, making him one of the most unique lecturers on the college speaking circuit today. Over the last ten years, Daryl Davis walked on the edge with one foot dangling over the precipice. His stories of setting up surprise meetings with Klan leaders unaware of his skin color and attending KKK rallies, has the suspense of Hitchcock, keeping audiences riveted to their seats in disbelief. On a quest to do nothing more than explore racism and gather information for his book, Klan-Destine Relationships, Daryl Davis eventually became the recipient of robes and hoods by Klan members who came to him to rescind their beliefs. Davis had inadvertently stumbled upon a successful method of forming friendships between sworn enemies. His methods have made him the center of controversy. In some white circles he has been deemed "politically incorrect" and in some black circles he has been called "Uncle Tom." Daryl Davis often makes supporters out of his detractors by proving his methods work and issuing this challenge: "I have Klan robes and hoods hanging in my closet, given to me voluntarily by members who have quit the Klan since coming to know me. That's what I've done to improve race relations. How many robes and hoods have you received as a result of your methods?"
Dominique Dawes Dominique Dawes is a champion in life. Bursting into the international spotlight in 1992 as part of the bronze medal winning womens Olympic gymnastic team, she was the first African American gymnast to ever qualify and compete in an Olympic games. A three-time Olympian, Awesome Dawesome catapulted into stardom, winning more national championship medals than any other athlete, and is now the most decorated gymnast on the US womens Olympic team. Since her Olympic glory, Dawes hasnt rested on her laurels. Her dedication, determination, and desire have served her well as a positive role model to young people across the nation. A popular speaker, she shares her insights about leading a healthy and balanced life, achieving confidence and self-esteem through both athleticism and citizenship. As spokesperson for The Girl Scout/Unilever Self-Esteem Program for girls, she helps the youth of today realize their fullest potential and inspire them to achieve a higher sense of self-esteem, paving the way for an easier and empowered adolescence. Talented and versatile, Dawes has appeared in the hit Broadway musical, "Grease" and is establishing a fledgling career in broadcasting. Active in numerous organizations such as Sports United Against Drugs, and as President-Elect of the Womens Sports Foundation, she continues to be a winning force for young women of all ages.
Ruby Dee An acclaimed actor and author, Ruby Dee has graced the stage and screen for more than fifty years. Her most recent roles have been in American Gangster, with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe in Steamroom, with Ally Sheedy and in the independent film Clarksdale (all due to be released in 2007. In 2005, she starred in Number 2, a New Zealand comedy-drama which won the Audience Award at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival and for which she was awarded New Zealands highest acting honors. She has received several Emmy nominations, and in 1991, won an Emmy for her performance in Decoration Day. In 2007 she and her late husband, Ossie Davis, received a Grammy Award for the audio book of their joint autobiography, With Ossie & Ruby In This Life Together. Although born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dee considers herself a product of Harlem, where she grew up and began her career as a member of the American Negro Theatre. She received her B.A. from Hunter College, and later studied acting with Paul Mann, Lloyd Richards and Morris Carnovsky. Some of her favorite roles on stage and screen include Lutiebelle in Purlie Victorious (written by her late husband, Ossie Davis) Ruth in A Raisin in the Sun Lena in Boesman and Lena, for which she received and Obie and a Drama Desk award; and Mary Tyrone in A Long Days Journey Into Night, for which she received a Cable ACE award. Other notable credits include Anna Lucasta, Wedding Band, St. Lucys Eyes, The Jackie Robinson Story, Uptight (which she co-wrote), Buck and the Preacher, Countdown at Kusini (which she co-produced with Delta Sigma Theta sorority), Do The Right Thing, Jungle Fever, Peyton Place, Go Tell It on the Mountain, The Stand, and Having Our Say. In 2006, Dee released the selected speeches and writings of Ossie Davis in Life Lit by Some Large Vision, in bookstores now. She is also the author of two childrens books, Tower to Heaven and Two Ways to Count to Ten; a book of poetry and short stories, My One Good Nerve (which she has adapted into a solo performance piece); and With Ossie and Ruby: In This Life Together, a joint autobiography co-authored with her late husband. She has also narrated several audio books, including Zora Neale Hurstons Their Eyes Were Watching God, for which performance she won an Audie Award. In 1988, Dee was inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame. With Davis, she has been inducted into the NAACP Image Award Hall of Fame, awarded the Silver Circle Award by the Academy of Television Arts and Science, the National Medal of Arts Award, the Marian Anderson Award, and the Screen Actors Guilds Lifetime Achievement Award. In December 2004, Dee and Davis were recipients of the John F. Kennedy Center Honors. She is a member of Actors Equity Association, the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, and the Writers Guild.
Kool Moe Dee Rapper Kool Mo Dee thrived during hip-hops nascent years as a vocalist whose tongue-twisting rhymes and speedy delivery put his counterparts to shame. Educator, entertainer, speaker, actor. Three platinum albums. Has appeared on many talk shows. A few of his many topics are: Gang Violence, Being black in America, Understanding Our White Brothers and Sisters and Visa Versa. On his 1987 album, How Ya Like Me Now, Kool came up with a hip-hop report card: a method of rating MCs (Emcees, Masters of Ceremonies, Master Communicators, or rap vocalists) as a way of separating the premier MCs from their often one-dimensional, overrated counterparts (“Sucka MCs”). Building on this original list, Kool has put together an extensive rating system to compile the definitive list of the greatest MCs of all time. Kool rates each MC based on seventeen different categories, ranging from the artist’s lyricism, vocabulary, and freestyling ability to his longevity, body of work, and social impact. Each artist is given a numerical score from one to ten in each of the seventeen categories, as well as an explanation for how this rating was determined.
Emilio DelGado Best known to viewers as Luis of "Sesame Street," Emilio DelGado has helped develope the program's Spanish language and cultural curricula. Emilio is available as Luis to do songs and games from "Sesame Street," or, in a more serious vein, to lecture on prejudice and bias.
Gabriel Bol Deng Gabriel Bol Deng has overcome unbelievable obstacles. He was 10 years old when North Sudan Arab militiamen led a violent attack on his village in South Sudan. He fled, not knowing the whereabouts of his parents or siblings. After his escape, Gabriel embarked on a harrowing, four month journey across the Nile River and the untold miles of Desert, surviving disease and paralyzing hunger to reach Ethiopia. While at the Dimma Refugee Camp in Ethiopia, Gabriel first learned English by writing on cardboard with pieces of charcoal. Four years later, he fled from violence again, leaving Ethiopia and traveling cross-country to Kenya, where, with the help of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Gabriel received an education at the Kakuma Refugee Camp. In 2000, he was offered the chance to join a refugee resettlement program in the United States. Gabriel is one of the Sudanese orphans known as The Lost Boys of Sudan.
Guillermo Descalzi Chief correspondent with the Telemundo Network for the national news and host of an international program, "America en Vivo." He previously hosted the original Spanish language investigative newsmagazine "Occurio Asi." Mr. Descalzi has interviewed every sitting United States president in the Americas.
Taye Diggs Popular author, entertainer and motion picture star, Taye Diggs has starred in the Broadway production of Rent and such movies as How Stella Got Her Groove Back, The Best Man, House on Haunted Hill and The Wood.
David Dinkins New York City's first African American Mayor, David Dinkins, an attorney, is an authority on national issues, urban problems and human rights.
Ivory Dorsey Content-based, multi-dimensional speaker, trainer, facilitator and consultant addressing such topics as sales, customer service, change, leadership and diversity, Ivory Dorsey is often described as informed, dynamic, pragmatic, motivating and inspiring. She is the author of Universal Appeal: The Bottom Line Benefit of Diversity.
Frederick Douglass IV Frederick Douglass IV will mesmerize you with the speeches and stories of his great, great grandfather, Frederick Douglass. A great orator and writer, a leading figure in the abolitionist movement, Frederick Douglass was born in 1817 into slavery in Maryland. He escaped in 1838 and in 1841 addressed an abolitionist meeting recounting his life as a slave. This was followed by lectures throughout the East and the publication of The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave. Douglas also published the abolitionist North Star, the first of a series of journals he was to create. Increasingly, he came to reject the moralistic stance against slavery in favor of political struggle and the support of the Republican party.
Rita Dove Rita Dove is the first African-American and the youngest person ever to be Poet Laureate of the United States. Dove won the Pulitzer Prize in 1987 for Thomas and Beulah, in which she evoked the lives of her grandparents. She is also the author of On the Bus with Rosa Parks, which was named a New York Times notable book of the year. Famed poet Rita Dove was born in Akron, Ohio, in 1952 as the daughter of the first Black research chemist who, in the 1950s, broke the race barrier in the tire industry. In 1970 she was invited to the White House as a Presidential Scholar, one of the two most outstanding high school graduates of the State of Ohio that year, before attending Miami University in Oxford, Ohio as a National Achievement Scholar. She graduated summa cum laude (as well as Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi) with a degree in English in 1973 and studied for a year on a Fulbright scholarship at Universität Tübingen in Germany. She then joined the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she earned her Master of Fine Arts degree in 1977. In 1976 she met her husband, the German writer Fred Viebahn, who was a Fulbright fellow in the University of Iowa's International Writing Program that year; their daughter Aviva Chantal Tamu Dove-Viebahn was born in 1983. Appearances in magazines and anthologies had already won national acclaim for Dove when she published her first poetry collection, The Yellow House on the Comer, with Carnegie-Mellon University Press in 1980. It was followed by Museum (1983) and Thomas and Beulah (1986), both also from Carnegie-Mellon. Thomas and Beulah, a collection of interrelated poems loosely based on her grandparents' life, earned her the 1987 Pulitzer Prize, making her the second African-American poet (after Gwendolyn Brooks in 1950) to receive this prestigious award. Other publications by Dove include a book of short stories, Fifth Sunday, Calialoo Fiction Series, 1985; the poetry collections Grace Notes (W.W. Norton, 1989), Selected Poems (Pantheon/Vintage, 1993) and Mother Love (W.W. Norton, 1995); the novel Through the Ivory Gate (Pantheon, 1992); the verse drama The Darker Face of the Earth (Story Line Press, 1994; 2nd, revised edition 1996) and a book with her laureate lectures (The Poet's World, The Library of Congress, 1995). The Darker Face of the Earth had its critically acclaimed world premiere at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon in the summer of 1996, supported by a major grant from the W. Alton Jones Foundation. A joint production by Crossroads Theatre of New Brunswick, New Jersey, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., underwritten by the Kennedy Centers Fund for New American Plays and the Geraldine Dodge Foundation, opened at Crossroads in October 1997 and went to the Kennedy Center for a four week run in the Eisenhower Theater in November 1997. In the fall of 1994 Dove's poem Lady Freedom Among Us, first read by her at the ceremony commemorating the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Capitol and celebrating the restoration of the Freedom Statue on the Capitol's dome in October 1993, was published by Janus Press in a limited edition to become the four-millionth acquisition of the University of Virginia Libraries. A multimedia version was made globally accessible by the University of Virginia on the Internet, one of the earliest such publications by a major writer.
Colette Dowling Author of 8 books on women's psychological issues with advanced training is psychotherapy and psychoanalysis and expertise in women's mental health.
Bill Duke Director of the highly acclaimed motion picture,"A Rage in Harlem," he also directed such movies as "The Meeting," "Bird on A Wire," and "Sister Act II."
Charles Dutton A product of the streets, the noted actor Charles Dutton spent his youth in and out of reform schools and eventually landed in the Maryland State Penitentiary. During his incarceration, he discovered a love of acting and established a drama group for inmates. After leaving prison, he earned a B.A. degree and was accepted to the Yale University Drama School. Dutton enjoyed critical acclaim as the title character in the TV comedy/drama series "Roc." His lecture is both motivating and uplifting.
Stephen Dweck Humorist, screen writer and co-author of the best selling books on Africa-American humor entitled Snaps, Double Snaps, and Triple Snaps. Their latest books are You're so Fine I'd Drink a Tub of Your Bath Water, and Baby, All Those Curves and Me With No Brakes. They have written "The Williams Family", a comedy for Paramount Pictures and a screenplay, "Puck U" starring Danny Glover, Adam Sandler and the Wayans Brothers.
Michael Eric Dyson Hailed as one of the nations most inspiring African Americans, Michael Eric Dyson has been credited with revitalizing the role of the public intellectual with the fervor of an ordained Baptist minister. Infusing intellectual thought with popular culture, Dyson focuses on topics of interest to the public. He eloquently melds scholarly insight with the phenomena of contemporary culture, emphasizing their interconnectedness and force in shaping our society. His books provide some of the most significant commentary on modern social and intellectual thought, interwoven with a combination of cultural criticism, race theory, religion, philosophical reflection, and gender studies. Works such as Making Malcolm X; I May Not Get There with You; Hollar if You Hear Me; Mercy, Mercy Me: The Art, Loves and Demons of Marvin Gaye; Is Bill Cosby Right? Or Has the Black Middle Class Lost its Mind?; and the recent Come Hell or High Water: Hurricane Katrina and the Color of Disaster deeply probe social themes and cultural politics. A popular University Professor of Sociology at Georgetown University, Dyson bridges gaps between generations, connecting civil rights identity to hip-hop culture while forging links between older and younger Americans, especially black Americans. As a cutting edge historian, he educates the general public on the significance of hip hop, not only in understanding black culture, but American cultural as well. With his powerful voice, Dyson reaches beyond race, addressing the universal commonality of American concern.
Walter E. Fauntroy A prominent minister, an associate of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and a civil rights activist in the 1960's, Walter Fauntroy served as a United States Congressman representing Washington, DC for twenty years and became a pivotal voice in shaping and implementing many significant changes in national public policy.
Larry EchoHawk Prominent attorney and former Attorney General of Idaho, Larry EchoHawk is the first Native American in United States history elected to such a post. He is also a former state legislator and county prosecutor.
Marian Wright Edelman Marian Wright Edelman was born in and grew up in Bennettsville, South Carolina, one of five children. Her father, Arthur Wright, was a Baptist preacher who taught his children that Christianity required service in this world and who was influenced by A. Phillip Randolph. He died when Marian was only fourteen, urging in his last words to her, "Don't let anything get in the way of your education." Marian Wright Edelman went on to study at Spelman College, abroad on a Merrill scholarship, and she traveled to the Soviet Union with a Lisle fellowship. When she returned to Spelman in 1959, she became involved in the civil rights movement, inspiring her to drop her plans to enter the foreign service, and instead to study law. She studied law at Yale and worked as a student on a project to register African American voters in Mississippi. In 1963, after graduating from Yale Law School, Marian Wright Edelman worked first in New York for the NAACP Legal and Defense Fund, and then in Mississippi for the same organization. There, she became the first African American woman to practice law. During her time in Mississippi, she worked on racial justice issues connected with the civil rights movement, and she also helped get a Head Start program established in her community. During a tour by Robert Kennedy and Joseph Clark of Mississippi's poverty-ridden Delta slums, Marian met Peter Edelman, an assistant to Kennedy, and the next year she moved to Washington, D.C., to marry him and to work for social justice in the center of America's political scene. They had three sons. In Washington, Marian Wright Edelman continued her work, helping to get the Poor People's Campaign organized. She also began to focus more on issues relating to child development and children in poverty. Marian Wright Edelman established the Children's Defense Fund (CDF) in 1973 as a voice for poor, minority and handicapped children. She served as a public speaker on behalf of these children, and also as a lobbyist in Congress, as well as president and administrative head of the organization. The agency served not only as an advocacy organization, but as a research center, documenting the problems and possible solutions to children in need. To keep the agency independent, she saw that it was financed entirely with private funds. Marian Wright Edelman also published her ideas in several books. The Measure of Our Success: A Letter to My Children and Yours was a surprising success. In the 1990s, when Bill Clinton was elected President, Hillary Clinton's involvement with the Children's Defense Fund meant that there was significantly more attention given to the organization. But Edelman did not pull her punches in criticizing the Clinton administration's legislative agenda -- such as its "welfare reform" initiatives -- when she believed these would be disadvantageous to the nation's neediest children. As part of the efforts of Marian Wright Edelman and the Children's Defense Fund on behalf of children, she has also advocated pregnancy prevention, child care funding, health care funding, prenatal care, parental responsibility for education in values, reducing the violent images presented to children, and selective gun control in the wake of school shootings.
Terry Edmonds Assistant to the President of the United States, Chief domestic policy speech writer for Bill Clinton and the first Black director of the White House speech writing office. Terry Edmonds was responsible for the production of all spoken remarks of President Clinton including the President's 2000 State of the Union Address. He also assisted in drafting the President's report to the nation on race relation in 21st century America.
Herm Edwards Whether it is his faith, his family or his football team, Edwards exudes passion in all areas of his life. That energetic and enthusiastic approach best defines how he approaches his task as head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs each season since starting in 2006. With his diverse background in pro football either as a player, scout, an assistant coach or head coach, Edwards has become one of five coaches in NFL history to take two different teams to the playoffs in their debut seasons with them. Edwards has used his experience in the league to serve as a positive role model and has been involved in numerous charitable efforts and philanthropic endeavors. Edwards founded the Herm Edwards Youth Foundation in 1985 as well as the Herm Edwards Youth Football Camp that is in its 12th season. The camp has allowed over one thousand kids a year to sharpen their football skills and learn valuable lessons from some of the NFLs finest teachers
Idris Elba Elba started acting in secondary school with encouragement from his drama teacher, on whom he also had a crush.[citation needed] He got his break as a supporting cast member of UK soap opera Family Affairs, but is perhaps best known for playing Russell "Stringer" Bell, one of the major characters in the HBO drama series The Wire. He also portrayed Captain Augustin Muganza in Sometimes in April, an HBO TV movie about the Rwandan Genocide somewhat similar to Hotel Rwanda. Elba has a large female fan base following and appeared on the cover of Essence's "Hot Hollywood Men" issue, April 2004 and again in Essence's November 2005 "10 Hottest Men on the Planet" issue. He recorded the four-song EP Big Man for Hevlar Records in 2006.
Joycelyn Elders When she was sworn in as Surgeon General, Dr. M. Joycelyn Elders became the first African American and the second woman to hold that post. As Surgeon General, Dr. Elders initiated programs to combat youth smoking and teen pregnancy and to increase childhood immunizations. As a private citizen, she continues to lobby tirelessly for the health needs of the young, the poor and the powerless. A pediatric endocrinologist, Dr. Elders has a deep concern for the welfare of children. She believes that violence, sexually transmitted diseases, poverty and substance abuse are the biggest threats to the health and wellness of our children. Dr. Elders has always spoken from her heart on health care issues. She advocates public health over profits in health care reform, openness over censorship in sex education, and rehabilitation over incarceration in the war against drugs. Her presentations on sexual health and education are both frank and informative. In her lectures and in her book, Joycelyn Elders M.D.: From Sharecropper’s Daughter to Surgeon General of the United States, she addresses the importance of good prenatal care, the future of healthcare reform, women’s health concerns, current treatments for HIV/AIDS, and meeting the needs of older Americans.
Phoebe Eng Activist and attorney Phoebe Eng is author of Warrior Lessons, a memoir-based account of race, leadership and empowerment in a rapidly changing world," said Karen Shih, advisor to students of Asian descent. "She has worked with a broad range of institutions, helping them understand the complexities and challenges of providing access and opportunity in a multicultural society." Former publisher of A Magazine, the national magazine for Asian-Americans, Eng attended the recent U.N. World Conference Against Racism in South Africa. Her views have been heard on NPR, PBS and in The New York Times and other national news forums
Judge Mablean Ephriam With over twenty years of experience behind her as a trial attorney and mediator, Mablean Ephriam brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the bench of DIVORCE COURT, the half-hour, relationship-oriented courtroom show by Monet Lane Prods., Inc. and Twentieth Television. DIVORCE COURT features real-life couples, real conflicts and powerful human drama in a compelling true-life courtroom setting where litigants abide by Ms. Ephriam’s legally-binding decisions. Ms. Ephriam began her legal career in law enforcement as a correctional officer at the Women’s Division of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Terminal Island. Pursuing her childhood dream of becoming a lawyer, Ms. Ephriam, while raising a family, accepted a job as a legal secretary. Simultaneously, she attended and completed Whittier College of Law. (Ms. Ephriam is divorced and the mother of four.) After five years as a Deputy City Attorney in Los Angeles, where she served as Domestic Violence Coordinator for spousal, parent and child abuse, Ms. Ephriam’s hard work and dedication paid off. In 1982, she went into private practice emphasizing family law, personal injury and probate. She also served as a Hearing Examiner for the City of Los Angeles, Civil Service Commission. Formerly a member of the Executive Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar and State Bar of California Family Law Sections, Ms. Ephriam is well known for her noteworthy contributions to the Los Angeles legal community. Additionally, her commitment and dedication to community service in the area of family law has earned her many prestigious awards throughout her career. In 1993, the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles recognized Ms. Ephriam with the Distinguished Service Award for her numerous contributions as co-founder of the Harriet Buhai Center for Family Law, a legal assistance program that provides services to indigent persons in the areas of family law, guardianship and paternity. Ms. Ephriam also received the 1995 Woman of the Year Award -- California State Assembly -- 48th District. The following year, the Los Angeles County Bar Association bestowed Ms. Ephriam with the Spencer-Brandeis Award. The Harriet Buhai Family Law Center paid tribute to her with the Zephyr Ramsey Award for her many years of exceptional service to the community. In 1997, Whittier College of Law, Ms. Ephriam’s alma mater, named her Alumni of the Year.
Mike Epps Popular actor and stand-up comedian of the Def Comedy Jam broadcasts, Mike Epps co-stars in the hit movie, Next Friday, sharing the spotlight with Ice Cube and John Witherspoon.
Mike Epsy Secretary of Agriculture in the Clinton Administration and former United States Representative from Mississippi.
Louise Erdrich Author of four best-selling and award-winning novels, The Bingo Palace; Love Medicine; The Beet Queen; and Tracks, and two collections of poetry, Jacklight; and Baptism of Desire. Ms. Erdrich co-authored The Crown of Columbus with her late husband Michael Dorris.
Michael Eric Dyson Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, named by Essence magazine as one of the 40 most inspiring African-Americans and by Ebony magazine as one of the 100 most influential black Americans is one of the nations most renowned public intellectuals. The Philadelphia Weekly contends that Dyson is reshaping what it means to be a public intellectual by becoming the most visible black academic of his time. When one hears Dysons name, one thinks of the many hats he wears: prolific author, scholar, public intellectual, ordained minister, media commentator and talk radio show host. In his books, Dyson has taken on some of the toughest and most controversial issues of our day, including Martin Luther King, Jr.s radical legacy, in I May Not Get There With You: The True Martin Luther King, Jr. the virtues and crises of hip-hop culture in Holler If You Hear Me: Searching for Tupac Shakur; racial conflict and black identity in Race Rules: Navigating the Color Line; and more recently the political and racial fallout from Hurricane Katrina in Come Hell or High Water: Hurricane Katrina and the Color of Disaster.and Debating Race, a collection of his previously unpublished intellectual encounters--cordial and combative--with some of today's most influential thinkers and politicians. Dyson has been nominated for the prestigious NAACP Image Award three times and has won it twice, first in 2004 for his book, Why I Love Black Women, and in 2006 for his New York Times bestselling book, Is Bill Cosby Right? Or Has the Black Middle Class Lost Its Mind? , which dissects class warfare in black America. Dysons New York Times bestselling Mercy, Mercy Me: The Art, Loves and Demons of Marvin Gaye, was optioned for a major motion picture. His newest book Know What I Mean? : Reflections on Hip Hop, returns to the subject of Hip Hop music and culture. While Dysonhas taught at some of the nations most prestigious universities including Brown, UNC at Chapel Hill, U. Penn and Columbia his influence has carried far beyond the academy into prisons and bookstores, political conventions and union halls, and church sanctuaries and lecture stages across the world. Dyson has also taken the media by storm through appearances on The Today Show, Nightline, OReilly Factor, The Tavis Smiley Show and Real Time with Bill Maher and he has cemented his star appeal on such shows as Rap City, Def Poetry Jam and The Colbert Report. Dyson is also the host of the syndicated radio show, The Michael Eric Dyson Show, which addresses social, cultural and political issues in a contemporary vein. Dysons powerful scholarship has won him legions of admirers and has made him what The Washington Post terms a superstar professor. His fearless and fiery oratory led the Chronicle of Higher Education to declare that with his rhetorical gifts he can rock classroom and chapel alike. Dysons eloquent writing inspired Vanity Fair magazine to describe him as one of the most graceful and lucid intellectuals writing on race and politics today. Dr. Dyson is presently University Professor at Georgetown University where he teaches Religion, English and African American Studies. His legendary rise from welfare father to Princeton Ph.D., from church pastor to college professor, from a factory worker who didnt start college until he was 21 to a figure who has become what writer Naomi Wolf terms the ideal public intellectual of our time may help explain why author Nathan McCall simply calls Dyson a street fighter in suit and tie.
Marshawn Evans Marshawn Evans NBC "The Apprentice" • Lawyer • Miss America Finalist Marshawn Evans, J.D., has garnered a reputation as an inspiring, articulate and intelligent orator. In the same mode as multitalented trailblazing women such as Oprah Winfrey, Katie Couric, Tyra Banks and Kimora Lee Simmons, Marshawn is a: media personality, distinguished entrepreneur, passionate youth advocate, inspirational speaker and compelling litigator. Marshawn has become a growing fixture in the media, having appeared across a wide-spectrum of leading TV, magazine, radio, newspaper and internet outlets, including ABC, VH1, MTV, Glamour and USA Today. Marshawn emerged into national consciousness as the 3rd runner-up for Miss America. Her fame continued to grow after her coveted stint as one of Donald Trump’s handpicked cast members on NBC’s popular show, The Apprentice. For thirteen weeks, nearly 12 million viewers tuned in each week and watched Marshawn go head-to-head with some of America’s top business professionals. Marshawn was the only woman to lead Trump’s all-women’s team – Capital Edge - to a victory as the Project Manager for an upscale, yet in your face, Lamborghini advertising campaign. This ultimate business challenge was the equivalent of getting a “Crash Course MBA!” As Founder of Communication Counts, Marshawn has traveled around the country working with politicians, athletes, entertainers and media personalities to enhance their communication skills. She regularly speaks on gender differences in business communication, diversity, and lifestyle issues for professional women. Recently, under the umbrella of Marshawn Evans Unlimited, Marshawn freelances as a real estate consultant, helping to structure investment deals for clients. In her entrepreneurial roles, Marshawn combines the elegant, ambassadorial style that won her the interview and talent portions for the Miss America competition, with an assertive business brawn and savvy. A consummate speaker, Marshawn’s client list includes the likes of Rotary International and Clear Channel. Whether the topic is communication, diversity or project management, Marshawn’s clear and upbeat style energizes and enhances corporate culture. After distinguishing herself as a top graduate from Georgetown University Law Center, Marshawn took a position as a trial attorney for one of Atlanta’s top law firms. This business leader and corporate consultant is completing work on an upcoming book, inspirational CD and DVD. Her ideas, enthusiasm, humility and attention to detail make her a rising personality in the communication and entertainment industry.
Juliette Fairley Financial writer and former personal finance editor for Black Enterprise Magazine. Juliette Fairley is the author of Money Talks:: Black Finance Experts Talk To You About Money.
Alina Fernandez Daughter of Fidel Castro As a little girl in Cuba, Alina Fernandez found nothing strange about the many visits Fidel Castro made to her home. During these visits, Castro would pay special attention to Alina, many times even bringing her gifts. At age ten, Alina's mother finally divulged the reason for Castro's attention: Fidel Castro was her father. Born in 1956, Alina was a child in the years just before and immediately following the Revolution of 1959. As the Revolution's events unfolded, Alina came to realize that, depending on his mood, Castro treated his illegitimate daughter with one of two extreme feelings--utter adoration or painful neglect. Through the years, however, Castro's influence as an authority figure in Alina's life never diminished. As she grew older, she recognized her position as one of Cuba's elite--but the political practices she witnessed under her father's regime and the neglect she experienced drove her to renounce that position and, ultimately, her relationship with her father as well. Alina Fernandez was finally forced to leave her homeland and to seek refuge in the United States. In 1998 St. Martin's Press published her story, Castro's Daughter: An Exile's Memoir of Cuba. In her lecture, Alina shares the extraordinary story of her experiences growing up in the shadow of Fidel Castro. Alina Fernandez is a former model and public relations director for a Cuban fashion company. She has not spoken with her father, Fidel Castro, in over a decade. After escaping to Spain she eventually moved to Miami where she currently hosts a daily radio program on Cuban and Cuban-American issues.
Laurence Fishburne The first African American actor to play the role of Othello on screen, Laurence Fishburne has also been acclaimed for his performance in John Singleton's "Boyz N The Hood" and his role as a chess playing champion in "Searching For Bobby Fischer."
George Folkes Humorist and star of his one-man show, "Putting Women in Their Place...Beside Their Men," George Folkes presents a funny and entertaining look at Black male/female relationships. He exposes some eye-opening truths about the way men are treating women today and the way women are reacting.
George Foreman Olympic boxing gold medalist in 1968 and Heavyweight Champion of the World, George Foreman is also a preacher and father of nine. At age 45, he became Heavyweight Champion of the World again. He has won the respect and admiration of millions due to his humor, implacable spirit and extraordinary accomplishments. This spirit also serves as an inspiration to kids through his Houston youth center and through his well-known work for charities. The Champ's hectic life also includes doing commercials and television. He has served as boxing commentator and spokesman for HBO. His autobiography is entitled, "By George." And don't forget his grill!
Vivica A. Fox Fox moved to California to become an actress, first on soap operas such as Generations, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless. One of her earliest roles saw her as Patti LaBelle's fashion designer daughter, Charisse Chamberlain, on the NBC TV series Out All Night. She also appeared as Jazz's sister on the hit show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She got her big break in film as Will Smith's stripper girlfriend in Independence Day. From there, she was cast in many other films and earned critical acclaim for her role in the 1997 movie Soul Food, which netted her MTV Movie Award and NAACP Image Award nominations. In December of 1998, she married singer Christopher Harvest (aka Sixx-Nine) who she later divorced in June 2002. Fox also played roles in Idle Hands, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, Teaching Mrs. Tingle, Two Can Play That Game and Juwanna Mann before landing the role of assassin Vernita Green in the 2003 Quentin Tarantino vehicle, Kill Bill. Fox has also tried her hand at voice acting, providing her voice for roles in the television cartoons Ozzy & Drix and Kim Possible. In 2004, Fox was in an episode of Punk'd where her pregnant friend Tichina Arnold pretended to go into labor, but they became angry when a paramedic appeared to care more about taking pictures than delivering the baby. Fox's relationship with the rapper 50 Cent earned her playful nods from Missy Elliott in her song "I'm Really Hot", The Game in "Dreams", and from 50 Cent himself in "Get In My Car". Fox is currently starring in the drama series, Missing on the Lifetime Television Network with Caterina Scorsone and Mark Consuelos. She is also the show's co-producer. Fox will participate in the third season of ABC's hit television show, Dancing with the Stars, the premiere is September 12. Vivica is set to star in an upcoming movie about the rise and fall and rise of Grammy Award-Winning pop music superstar Whitney Houston
Jamie Foxx Despite being in the entertainment business for only a short time, Jamie Foxx has already proven himself an accomplished performer in film, television and music. Music was Jamie's first love, so he nurtured his natural talent by singing in a church choir and studying classical piano in his hometown of Terrell, Texas. He majored in music at a small liberal arts college in San Diego before a fateful visit to Los Angeles on his 21st birthday literally changed his life. While visiting a local comedy club, Jamie took a dare from a friend to go on stage and perform. He brought the house down with his impromptu routine. Realizing his comedic talent could be his ticket to Hollywood, he auditioned for the television show "In Living Color." Foxx was chosen from an open casting call of 300 for the coveted role of a series regular. His popularity on the hit show led to his own one-hour HBO comedy special, "Straight from the Foxxhole." In the special, he showcased his musical talents with a medley of songs that led to the 1995 release of his debut album, "Peep This." With all 12 songs written, produced and performed by Foxx, the album climbed to the #12 spot on Billboard's R&B chart. His other television credits include a recurring role on the critically acclaimed comedy series "Roc." Foxx also has made a name for himself in feature films. His credits include starring with Uma Thurman and Janeane Garofalo in "The Truth About Cats & Dogs" and "The Great White Hype" with Samuel L. Jackson and Damon Wayans. He will also star in the upcoming comedy "Good to Go" in which he was reunited with former "In Living Color" castmate Tommy Davidson.
Leslie Lee Francis Granddaugher of Pulitzer Prize wining poet, Robert Frost and author of The Frost Family’s Adventure in Poetry.
A.J. Franklin Psychologist and author, Dr.A.J.Franklin specializes in the African American male and his relationship with the Black family.
Dr. John Hope Franklin Dr. John Hope Franklin is the James B. Duke Professor Emeritus of History and, for seven years, was Professor of Legal History at Duke University Law School. He is a graduate of Fisk University and earned his A.M. and Ph.D. degrees in history from Harvard University. Widely known for his literature in history, Franklin has produced numerous works such as: The Emancipation Proclamation, The Free Negro in North Carolina, The Militant South and his best known, From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African-Americans, now in its seventh edition. Professor Franklin has served on many national commissions and delegations, including the National Council on the Humanities; the President's Advisory Commissions on Public Diplomacy, as well as Ambassadorial Appointments. He currently serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board of One America: The President's Initiative on Race, and is the newly-appointed Chair of the National Park System Advisory Board.
George Fraser George Fraser is the author of two books, including the critically acclaimed bestseller, Success Runs In Our Race;The Complete Guide to Effective Networking in the African American Community. He is also the creator and publisher of the award winning SuccessGuide Worldwide: The Networking Guide to Black Resources. A 13 th edition (250,000 copies) will be published next year. Many have called George a new voice for African Americans. He is considered by many to be one of the foremost authorities on networking and building effective relationships. George Fraser is a frequent contributor to scholarly journals on a wide range of topics to include networking, business ethics, valuing diversity and economic development. He was recently featured in the New York Timesbestseller; Masters of Networking along with Colin Powell. His 2nd book Race For Success; The Ten Best Business Opportunities for Blacks In America was published by the William Morrow Company, and selected as one of the ten best business books of the year by the Booklist. Mr. Fraser is leading a national initiative to build an African American Business Hall of Fame and Museum and a university-based Center for the Advancement of African American Entrepreneurship. Currently 14 renowned leaders sit on the Board of Directors. Four thousand people recently attended its first annual Induction Ceremony/Dinner held in June 2002 in Cleveland, Ohio. Robert Johnson of BET, Oprah Winfrey, Cathy Hughes of Radio One, Clarence Smith and Edward Lewis of Essence Magazine and Berry Gordy of Motown were inducted into the Business Hall of Fame in a nationally televised (The Word Network) program and ceremony. Mr. Fraser is the founder and executive producer of an annual PowerNetworking Conference, one of Black America’s largest gathering (17,000) of professionals, business owners and community leaders. The Conference features numerous workshops on networking and relationship skills building, top motivational speakers and a Business Opportunity Exposition. It is extensively covered by the national media to include; C-Span, The WordNetwork, New York Times, Ebony, Jet, and Black Enterprise Magazine. Mr. Fraser has served on numerous boards and has received many awards and citations for his community service, including the United Negro College Fund National Volunteer of the Year Award. Allstate Insurance recently presented to him on national TV its Architects of the Village Award. He had been appointed to state and city commissions by both the Governor and the Mayor of his home state and city of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Fraser spent 17 years in management with Procter & Gamble, United Way and Ford Motor Company Today as a popular speaker and author, Mr. Fraser has appeared on more than 250 television and radio talk shows. His views are solicited by media as diverse as CNN and the Wall Street Journal. Last year he gave of 120 speeches to audiences averaging 500 people each. His inspiring talks on success principles, effective networking, wealth creation, business ethics and valuing diversity are as popular among corporate professionals as they are among college students. His words and ideas have been taped and televised. Over the last decade the prestigious publication Vital Speeches of the Day has selected five of Mr. Fraser’s speeches to be reprinted and distributed worldwide, a first for any professional speaker in America. UPSCALE magazine name him one of the top 50 power brokers in Black America. Black Enterprise Magazine called him Black America’s #1 networker and featured him on its cover. Personal growth “guru” Stephen Covey called Mr. Fraser a “masterful teacher”. TV host and journalist, Tony Brown called him a “visionary with the rare combination of leadership and management skills.” Mr. Fraser attended New York University and received his executive training at the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College
Joe Frazier The son of a South Carolina sharecropper, Joe Frazier became a boxer by accident. He first went to a gym to work himself into shape. Shortly after, he began fighting competitively and became one of the best amateur heavyweights in the nation. He didn’t lose until he ran into Buster Mathis, who beat him in the 1964 Olympic trials. But, Mathis suffered a hand injury and Frazier replaced him at the Summer Games in Tokyo and came home with a gold medal. Joe Frazier turned pro under the guidance of Yank Durham in 1965 and ran off 11 straight wins until he ran into tough guy Oscar Bonavena, in September 1966. The Argentine dropped Frazier twice in one round, but Smokin’ Joe came off the deckk–showing the Madison Square Garden crowd the heart and character that would mark his career–to win a 10-round unanimous decision.
Morgan Freeman Morgan Freeman earned his first Academy Award nomination for his chilling performance as a homicidal pimp in the drama Street Smart, which also brought him the LA, N.Y., and National Society of Film Critics Awards for best supporting actor of 1987, as well as an Independent Spirit Award and a Golden Globe nomination. The part of the pimp, Fast Black, was a far cry from his big screen debut as the genial character Afro in his film debut, the 1971 childrens adventure Who Says I Cant Ride a Rainbow, and it signaled the film world that one of its most versatile stars was on the rise. The 16 year span between those titles saw Freeman range from Shakespeare to an undercover policeman in Eyewitness. The next two decades would see him become one of Hollywoods true luminaries. Freeman earned his second Oscar nomination in 1989, this time as Best Actor, recreating his award-winning Broadway role in Driving Miss Daisy. He garnered his third Academy Award nomination playing opposite Tim Robbins in the critically praised 1994 hit The Shawshank Redemption. His fourth nomination for Clint Eastwoods Million Dollar Baby won him the Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2005. The Memphis-born actor began his career on New York stages in the early 1960s, following a stint as a mechanic in the Air Force. A decade later, he became a nationally known television personality when he created the popular character Easy Reader on the popular childrens show, The Electric Company. Throughout the 1970s, he continued his work on stage, winning the Drama Desk Award, the Clarence Derwent Award and receiving a Tony Award Nomination for his outstanding performance in The Mighty Gents in 1978. He also won an Obie Award for his portrayal of Shakespearean anti-hero, Coriolanus, at the New York Shakespeare Festival. In 1984, Morgan won another Obie for his role as The Messenger in the acclaimed Brooklyn Academy of Music production of Lee Breuer's Gospel at Colonus. In 1985, he was winner of the Dramalogue Award for the same role. The part of Hoke Coleburn in Alfred Uhrys Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Driving Miss Daisy brought him his third Obie Award. His last stage appearance was as Petruchio in The Taming of the Shrew at the New York Shakespeare Festivals Delacorte Theater with Tracey Ullman. In 1993, Freeman made his film directorial debut with Bopha!, starring Danny Glover and Alfre Woodard, and soon after formed Revelations Entertainment, a production company developing entertainment product in all existing and emerging media that enlightens, inspires and glorifies the human experience. Their most recent production was the Brad Silberling comedy 10 Items or Less, in which Freeman starred with Paz Vega. His other early film acting credits include Brubaker, Harry & Sons, Teachers, Marie; That Was Then, This Is Now, Clean & Sober, Johnny Handsome, the multiple award-winning Glory, Chain Reaction, the Steven Spielberg production, Amistad, Hard Rain, Deep Impact, Nurse Betty, Along Came a Spider, Kiss the Girls, High Crimes, The Sum of All Fears and Warner Bros Dreamcatcher and The Big Bounce. Other recent films include Luc Bessons Unleashed, Robert Redfords An Unfinished Life, Batman Begins and narration on the Academy Award-winning documentary March of The Penguins. He also recently starred in Lucky Number Slevin, with Bruce Willis and Josh Hartnett and will soon be seen in the comedy sequel Evan Almighty, Ben Afflecks Gone Baby Gone, Robert Bentons The Feast of Love and the next chapter in the Batman saga The Dark Knight.
Doug E. Fresh From Harlem to Africa, the name of entertainer and rapper, Doug E. Fresh, is synonymous with dedication and determination, qualities for which he has been often rewarded. He has been presented with three New York Music Awards for "Best Entertainer," "Best Rap Instrumental," and "Best Role Model." Doug has donated much time to social justice issues. He was one of the major initiators of Harlem's historic "Rappers Against Racism," and "Rappers for Voters Registration" all-star concerts in Harlem.
Ardie Fuqua Ardie Fuqua You've seen him on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Apollo Comedy Hour. While attending Rutgers University as a Journalism Major, Ardie ventured to New York City's Uptown Comedy Club in Harlem. There he watched a lot of young guys getting laughs and thought it looked like a lot of fun, he had no idea you could make a living from it. After working just one year in comedy, he became a regular at the Boston Comedy Club, Gotham Comedy and Carolines. Since then he's been seen on NBC's Friday Night Videos and HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Apollo Comedy Hour. When not on the road, he can be seen at his home based club, the Comedy Cellar in New York City.
Ron G Ron G is blazing a trail as one of the hottest upcoming comedians in LA. This former class clown decided it was time to graduate from the classroom and take his act to the world's stage. Ron G, who describes his comedy as "high energy and clever with an urban flare," graduated with a dual degree in finance and management from the University of South Carolina. But he quickly decided he didn't fit into the corporate world, and at his cousin's urging got up on stage for the first time in Atlanta, GA and got booed severely. He calls that "the best and worst day of my life - the day I fell in love with comedy." He has been performing ever since at clubs, colleges, churches and corporate events across the country, entertaining people while staying true to his commitment to clean humor. His performance presents down to earth humor and funny characters. Ron G began his stand up career in Atlanta, GA, and was crowned 1st place winner of the 2005 Sierra Mist Late Night Laff Off. After moving to Los Angeles to further his career as a comedian and actor, he was a finalist on the new hit TV show Bill Bellamy's "Who's Got Jokes" and was also a finalist on the most recent season of NBC's Last Comic Standing. And if that wasn't enough, on his very first commercial audition, he booked a gig as national Spokesperson for Checker's & Rally's Restaurants. Having Martin Lawrence tell him he was funny is one of Ron G's career highlights so far, and after receiving his first standing ovation only eight months in the game, he knew he had found his calling.
Ernest Gaines Gaines was born in Louisiana in 1933 but moved to California when he was 15 because he had no access to high school in the segregated South. He entered a public library for the first time when he was 16 and ultimately decided to become a writer. A graduate of San Francisco State College, he has been writer-in-residence at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette since 1983. In addition to A Lesson, his works include The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman (1971) and A Gathering of Old Men (1984), both of which were adapted for television.
Cassandra Gaines Ms. Cassandra Gaines has been actively involved in Tourism in Northeastern Oklahoma region since 1982. A $50,000.00 grant was appropriated in 1997 from the Oklahoma Historical Society to help promote African American Heritage Tourism in Northeastern Oklahoma. Ms. Gaines is the Multi-Cultural Director for convention & tourisms in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Ms. Gaines continues to study African American Histories and promote African –American Tourism in the region and nationally. Ms. Gaines is known throughout the United States for the Oklahoma Historical Black Town Tour and speaking on Heritage tourism which is a new niche in the tourism market. She’s also known for her entertainment ability for putting on various musical shows. November 2000, TIA Destiny Awards Special Projects (the Grammy’s of Tourism) On June 19, 2002, Ms Gaines was inducted into the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame for her outstanding work throughout the state of Oklahoma. On April 18th and 19th 2003, the New York Times visited Oklahoma for an exclusive interview with Ms. Gaines for her outstanding work the Oklahoma Historical Black Towns Tours. November 2003, Al Roker with the Food Channel and NBC Today Show Weatherman came to Muskogee and interviewed Cassandra Gaines for outstanding work on the Black Towns Tours and the down home cooking. This aired the whole month of February 2004 during Black History Month. October 25, 2004 Award, International African American Culinary Arts Institute outstanding work in Oklahoma November 29-Dec 4 2005 was invited to the National League of cities to showcase the Oklahoma Historical Black Towns Tour.
Cristina Garcia In 1960, Cristina Garcias family fled Cuba in the wake of Fidel Castros Communist revolution. Drawing on her personal experiences in an expatriate family, Garcia speaks directly on the current issues of cultural identity and Cuban-American relations. As a powerful speaker with a marvelous charm she illuminates the complexities and contradictions of a dual cultural identity by exploring questions such as; What does it mean to have Hispanic roots and also to succeed within mainstream America? What are the drawbacks and benefits of this duality? Garcia has been a Guggenheim Fellow, a fellow at Princeton University, and is the recipient of the Whitting Writers Award.
Christopher Gardner Christopher Gardner is president and CEO of the Chicago-based brokerage firm Gardner Rich & Co., which he founded in 1987. Prior to launching his own firm, Mr. Gardner worked for several prestigious Wall Street firms. He landed his first job in the securities industry in 1981 with Dean Witter Reynolds, coming out of their training program. Later, he spent four years with Bear Stearns & Co., where he became a top earner. A self-made multi-millionaire, Gardner is intent on giving back to the communities where he conducts business because he has never forgotten his humble beginnings or the odds he has surmounted. Christopher Gardner's accomplishments are extraordinary on their own merit, but are all the more astonishing because of the unimaginable obstacles he encountered on the road to success. Always hard working and tenacious, a series of circumstances in the early 1980's left Gardner homeless in San Francisco and the sole guardian of his toddler son. Unwilling to give up Chris Jr. or his dream of financial independence, Gardner started at the very bottom of the financial industry ladder and pulled his way up, often spending his nights in a church shelter or a bathroom at a Bay Area Rapid Transit station in Oakland. The amazing story of Gardner's life will be soon be published as an autobiography, The Pursuit of Happyness, by Amistad/Harper Collins on May 23, 2006, and will also be the subject of a movie with the same title starring Will Smith as Gardner to be released by Columbia Pictures in December 2006. Born February 9, 1954 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Gardner never knew his father. He lived with his mother, Bettye Jean Gardner, and her family and, when necessary, in foster homes. Despite a life of hardship and emotional scarring, he always had supreme love and admiration for his mother, who was a trained schoolteacher. His mother taught him some of the greatest lessons of his life, which he follows to this day. When Gardner told her he wanted to be the great jazz trumpeter Miles Davis she said, "Son, there's only one Miles Davis and he got that job. So you have to do something else." He understood from that day forward that his job was to be Chris Gardner - whatever that entailed. Bettye Jean also taught him that in spite of where he came from, he could attain whatever goals he set for himself by saying, "If you want to, one day you could make a million dollars." Gardner believed this to be fact, and it allowed him to persevere through the years when and his son were struggling for survival and a better life. Straight out of high school, Gardner enlisted in the Navy, just like his uncles, his role models, had done previously. After the military, Gardner went to San Francisco and took a job as a medical supply salesman. Then he reached a turning point in his life. In a parking lot, he met a man driving a red Ferrari. "He was looking for a parking space. I said, 'You can have mine, but I gotta ask you two questions.' The two questions were: What do you do? And how do you do that? Turns out this guy was a stockbroker and he was making $80,000 a month." That pivotal encounter gave Gardner a clear career goal, but he still needed a way into the world of high finance. Without experience, connections, a degree, or pedigree, Gardner began knocking on doors, applying for training programs at brokerages, even though it meant he would have to live on next to nothing while he learned. When he was finally accepted into a program, he left his job in medical sales. But his plans collapsed when the man who offered him the training slot was fired, and Gardner had no job to go back to. Things got worse. He was put in jail for $1,200 in parking violations that he couldn't pay. Chris Jr.'s mother left and Gardner, despite his circumstances, fought to keep his son because, as he says, "I made up my mind as a young kid that when I had children, my children were gonna know who their father was." With a network of offices in New York, Chicago and San Francisco, GRC has grown by focusing on its commitment to provide quality service and excellent trade executions for clients. The firm executes trades for some of the nations largest institutions, public pension plans and unions. Under Mr. Gardner's directions, GRC has adopted a "give back to the community" program. The Company donates 10% or more of the company's earnings toward school and educational projects in the communities it serves. Chris Gardner's remarkable story of struggle, faith, entrepreneurialism, and fatherly devotion has catapulted him beyond the notoriety he has found on Wall Street. He has been featured on CBS' "Evening News with Dan Rather" and ABC's "20/20," as well as being the subject of profiles in many newspapers and national magazines.
Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr Henry Louis Gates, Jr. is the Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and the Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Research at Harvard University. Acclaimed as an eloquent commentator and formidable intellectual force on multicultural and African American issues, Gates has held additional appointments at Yale, Cornell, and Duke. Born and raised in Piedmont, West Virginia, Gates grew up during a period of racial transition in the 1950s and 1960s. Currently, Professor Gates is Editor-in-Chief of the Oxford African American Studies Center, the first comprehensive scholarly online resource in the field of African American Studies and Africana Studies. He is co-editor with K. Anthony Appiah of the encyclopedia Encarta Africana published on CD-ROM by Microsoft. His latest book is Finding Oprah’s Roots, Finding Your Own, a meditation on genetics, genealogy, and race. His other recent books include America Behind the Color Line: Dialogues with African Americans, African American Lives, and The Annotated Uncle Tom’s Cabin. In 2006, Professor Gates wrote and produced the PBS documentary called African American Lives, the first documentary series to employ genealogy and science to provide an understanding of African American history. In 2007, a follow-up one-hour documentary, “Oprah’s Roots: An African American Lives Special,” aired on PBS, further examining the genealogical and genetic heritage of Oprah Winfrey, who had been featured in the original documentary. Professor Gates is currently at work on a four-hour sequel to “African American Lives,” which is scheduled to air in February 2008. In addition to writing, Professor Gates has had a profound impact on the literary world by authenticated and facilitated the publication of Our Nig, or, Sketches from the Life of a Free Black, by Harriet Wilson, the first novel published by an African American woman. As well as The Bondwoman’s Narrative by Hannah Crafts, dating from the early 1850s and now considered one of the first novels written by an African American woman. Through out his long and decorated career, Gates has been a part of many writing, publishing and editorial endeavors. Professor Gates earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in English literature from Clare College at the University of Cambridge, and his B.A. summa cum laude in History from Yale University. He became a member of Phi Beta Kappa in his junior year at Yale.
Luther Gatling Financial expert and founder and President of Budget & Credit Counseling Services, Inc. Buccs, which was the first credit counseling organization in the country to not only deal with the broad spectrum of consumer debt but also to serve as a kind of laboratory for bank products and their effect on community needs.
Bruce George Co-Founder of the critically acclaimed award winning Russell Simmonss Def Poetry Jam. Bruce is Co-Founder of Def Poetry Jam and visionary, executive producer, writer, poet and activist. He was born and raised in New York City. He has written poetry/prose & articles for over 37 years. His work has been published in major magazines, anthologies, and literary publications. He has written testimonials from the likes of Essence Magazine, Emerge Magazine, Class Magazine, Harlem River Press etc Bruce has won multiple poetry & talent contests. He has won several awards such as a Peabody Award for Russell Simmons Presents, Def Poetry (HBO), a Miky Award for Russell Simmons Presents, Def Poetry Jam (HBO), an Upscale Showcase Award, a Trail Blazer Award etc for his outstanding vision, production, writing and performance. Bruce is the Co-Founder of the critically acclaimed award winning Russell Simmonss Def Poetry Jam. Hes also the Founder/Managing Editor of The Bandana Republic, an Anthology of Poetry & Prose by Gang Members & Their Affiliates. Bruce is the Founder/Executive Producer of a spoken word documentary entitled: Bone Bristle, A Spoken Word Documentary which is in post-production. The film features critically acclaimed writers, poets & spoken word artists. As an activist Bruce has been and currently is associated with major grassroots organizations that fosters and uplifts people in struggle. Bruce has served on numerous panels (Hampton, Harvard, The New School, Fordham University, Medgar Evers, Schomburg Center For Research in Black Culture etc) and judged hundreds of poetry/spoken word competitions.
Tim Giago A leading Native American journalist, Tim Giago is a syndicated columnist and publisher of the Lakota Times, the largest independently owned American Indian weekly newspaper in the United States. Tim Giago serves on the editorial consultant committee on diversity issues for USA Today and is the author of two books, The Aboriginal Sin and Notes From Indian Country.
Marla Gibbs Best known as "Florence" on the CBS television hit series, "The Jeffersons." A highly successful film and television actress, Ms.Gibbs has been the recipient of numerous awards for her community service. A very funny and motivational lecture.
Dr. Jewell Taylor Gibbs A clinical psychologist and professor of Social Policy, Community Change and Practice at the School of Social Welfare, University of California at Berkeley, Jewell Taylor Gibbs is the author of Race and Justice: Rodney King and O.J. Simpson in a House Divided. She is the editor of Young, Black and Male in America: An Endangered Species and co-author of Children of Color, Psychological Interventions With Minority Youth. Dr. Gibbs brings an inspiring and practical approach to solving some of America's social ills.
Will Gilbert Will Gilbert, 25, is from Detroit, Michigan but now resides in both Detroit and the Los Angeles, California area. Will was studying advertising at Michigan State University but left after 3 years to take classes on sound engineering and production at the Recording Institute of Detroit in Eastpointe to further his pursuit of a music career. Will Gill is the Entertainer who loves to speak his mind which sometimes questions authority while at the same time being humble and acting neutral on The Real World Hollywood Season. Will is a music producer and songwriter that specializes in performing as both a DJ and Emcee. College Lecture Topics Diversity, Urban Living, Music, and Mediating
Marcia Ann Gillespie Marcia Ann Gillespie has been a trailblazer in the publishing world for more than two decades. As former Editor in Chief of Essence, she transformed the then-fledgling publication into one of the fastest-growing women's magazines in the United States. Time magazine named her "One of the Fifty Faces for America's Future." She was voted the March of Dimes' "Outstanding Woman in Publishing" for her efforts in inspiring all humankind to combat hatred and violence. She has written extensively on issues of gender and race. Under Gillespie's leadership, Ms. magazine has attracted increasing numbers of younger women to the magazine's fold. Marcia Ann Gillespie is a trailblazer in the magazine industry, a leader in the women's movement, a champion of gender of racial justice. A provocative writer and thinker, hers has been a consistent eloquent voice affirming the human potential for good, challenging inequality, pushing herself and others to hope, dare and strive for a better world. She has been a driving force behind two of this nation's most important women's magazines, as the editor in chief of Essence from 1971-1980 and most recently as the editor in chief of Ms. from 1993-2001. Named the Editor in Chief of Essence at the age of 26, Gillespie quickly proved her mettle by rapidly transforming the then fledgling publication into one of the fastest growing women's magazines in the United States. During her tenure (1971-1980), Essence became a trusted source of inspiration, information and affirmation for millions of African American women and won a National Magazine Award the industry's most prestigious honor. A vice-president of Essence Communications, Inc. and a member of the board of directors, Gillespie was named "One of the Fifty Faces for America's Future" by Time magazine. Gillespie's association with Ms. magazine dates back to 1980 when she became a contributing editor. She then went on to become a featured columnist and the executive editor of Ms. before being named the top editor in 1993. At Ms. her mission was "moving the discussion of feminism forward" and making the magazine a "welcome table" for a range of voices and views. Under her leadership the magazine reached an ever more diverse readership, attracting increasing numbers of younger women to the fold. In addition to her role as editor in chief, Gillespie was named the President of Liberty Media for Women, a limited liability corporation comprised of women investors that purchased the magazine in November 1998 and successfully relaunched the publication in March 1999. To further secure the publication's future, Gillespie negotiated the magazine's transfer to the Feminist Majority Foundation in December 2000 and officially turned the reins over in February 2001. Gillespie's extensive knowledge about the national and international women's movements, issues of racial and gender justice, the media and business, and her keen interest in history and observations about current events and the changes and challenges confronting the American society, and her deep faith in our ability to rise informs her life and her work. A rousing, eloquent and in-demand public speaker, who brings both wit and wisdom to her talks, Gillespie regularly appears on university and college campuses and as a keynoter at conferences and events in the United States and abroad. In addition to her numerous public appearances, she maintains a thriving consultancy advising corporate and other clients on issues ranging from diversity to communications. An award winning writer, Gillespie has also received a number of awards from professional and civic organizations including the Matrix award from New York Women in Communication, the Mary MacLeod Bethune award from the National Council of Negro Women. Awarded a Doctor of Letters by her alma mater, Lake Forest University, she is also a recipient of the Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism, from the University of Missouri School of Journalism. Gillespie also serves as a member of the board of directors of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health, the Violence Policy Center and the Global Fund for Women.
Dorothy Butler Gilliam Highly respected columnist for The Washington Post, Dorothy Gilliam was the only black woman journalist covering the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960's. She was the president of the 2400 member National Association of Black Journalists and has served as chair of the Institute for Journalism Education, a national organization which promotes opportunities for minority students in journalism. A frequent panelist on the political talk show, "To The Contrary," Ms. Gilliam appears nationwide on the Public Broadcasting System (PBS).
Nikki Giovanni Yolande Cornelia "Nikki" Giovanni, Jr., born in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a world-renowned poet, writer, commentator, activist, and educator. Over the past thirty years, Nikki’s outspokenness, in her writing and in person, has brought the eyes of the world upon her. One of the most widely read American poets; she prides herself on being "a Black American, a daughter, a mother, a professor of English." Giovanni remains as determined and committed as ever to the fight for civil rights and equality. Always insisting on presenting the truth as she sees it, she has maintained a prominent place as a strong voice of the Black community. Her focus is on the individual, specifically, on the power one has to make a difference in oneself, and thus, in the lives of others. Nikki Giovanni has written more than two-dozen books, including volumes of poetry, illustrated children’s books, and three collections of essays. Her book Racism 101 includes bold, controversial essays about the situation of Americans on all sides of various race issues. She has received 21 honorary doctorates and a host of other awards, including "Woman of the Year" awards from three different magazines as well as Governors’ Awards in the Arts from both Tennessee and Virginia. Her three most recent volumes of poetry, Love Poems, Blues: For All the Changes and Quilting the Black-Eyed Pea, were winners of the NAACP Image Award, in 1998, 2000, and 2003. Since 1987, she has taught writing and literature at Virginia Tech, where she is a University Distinguished Professor. As a devoted and passionate writer, teacher, and speaker, she inspires not only her students, but also readers and audiences nationwide. The Nikki Giovanni Poetry Collection, a spoken-word CD, was a finalist for the 2003 Grammy Award in the category of spoken word.
Robin Givens She appeared on The Cosby Show and Diff'rent Strokes and the TV movie Beverly Hills Madam before receiving the role on Head of the Class that made her famous. She achieved further prominence as the wife (1988-1989) of heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson with whom she shared a mansion in the affluent suburbs of New Jersey. They divorced, however, after Givens accused Tyson of spousal abuse (Tyson was later arrested). Her most famous television role was of rich girl Darlene Merriman on the sitcom Head of the Class. After her run on the show and her high profile divorce from Tyson, she appeared in numerous TV specials, TV movies (most notably The Women of Brewster Place with Oprah Winfrey and The Face with Yasmine Bleeth) and some failed sitcoms. Givens attempted a comeback as the host of the talk show, Forgive or Forget replacing television personality Mother Love. While this was generally regarded as a failure, Givens was well-liked by the audience. With the exception of the occasional made-for-television movie, she has not been seen on television since. She performed in New York in the Off-Broadway production of The Vagina Monologues, earning good reviews for her performance.
Danny Glover From Places in the Heart and the Lethal Weapon series to the award-winning To Sleep with Anger (which he also executive produced), Danny Glover is one of Hollywood's most renowned and respected leading men. An actor, producer, and director, this versatile superstar has impacted stage, screen, and television for over a decade.Glover's impressive and diverse body of work has earned him a host of awards, including several NAACP Image Awards, an ACE Award and Emmy nominations. Off-screen, Glover is a powerful advocate for literacy and has spoken to grammar and high school students around the nation about the joys of reading and education.
Whoopi Goldberg Versatile stand-up comedienne and performance artist Whoopi Goldberg gained the attention of Hollywood with her eponymous show of character sketches. With her trademark dreadlocks, gravelly voice and blunt, hip-yet-compassionate style, she was unconventional star material to be sure, and the ups and downs of her career clearly represent the attempts of producers to smooth over what they consider to be her rough edges. She made an auspicious feature debut with an atypically subdued but very moving performance in Steven Spielberg's controversial film, "The Color Purple." She gave an Oscar-winning performance as a fake psychic medium in the 1990 boxoffice hit, "Ghost." Her unusual and considerable talents, and her earthy, straightforward persona have kept her extremely busy from hosting two Academy Awards ceremonies to performing in the low-key romance, "Corinna, Corinna," voicing Shenzi the hyena in "The Lion King" and playing a lesbian in the road film, "Boys on the Side."
Marita Golden In a professional writing career that spans more than thirty years, Marita Golden has distinguished herself as a novelist, essayist, teacher of writing and literary institution builder.Her fiction includes the novels Long Distance Life, (a best-seller, cited as a "Best Book of the Year" by The Washington Post), A Woman’s Place, And Do Remember Me, and The Edge of Heaven. In the genre of nonfiction, Marita Golden has edited two anthologies, Wild Women Don’t Wear No Blues: Black Women Writers on Love, Men and Sex; and with writer Susan Shreve, Skin Deep: Black and White Women on Race. As a memoirist and essayist, Golden has authored Migrations of the Heart, Saving Our Sons: Raising Black Children in a Turbulent World, and A Miracle Everyday: Triumph and Transformation in the Lives of Single Mothers.
Dr. Phakamile Gongo First Black Secretary General of the Embassy of South Africa.
Ed Gordon Ed Gordon, award-winning anchor, managing editor of BET News With Ed Gordon, and host of Conversation With Ed Gordon, is one of broadcasting's most versatile journalists. Gordon's return to BET, after a three-year stint with NBC, was marked by what he is best known for... the exclusive one-on-one interview. Gordon's years at NBC were no less impressive. There he scored, for Dateline NBC, the only interview with Autumn Jackson, a young woman who made headlines by accusing entertainer Bill Cosby of being her father. While at NBC and its cable network MSNBC, Gordon was anchor and host of the talk show Internight. Periodically, Gordon hosts BET News special broadcasts, such as President Clinton Face to Face: A White House Special, where Gordon interviewed President Clinton and then moderated a discussion with the President and citizens from across the country. Murder Madness, looked at solutions to the growing problem of violence in America. Other specials include BET Town Hall Meetings, broadcast live from various cities across the country. These Town Hall meetings explore issues from AIDS to affirmative action. From 1989-91 Gordon hosted the critically acclaimed interview series Personal Diary. Guests included 60 Minutes co-host Ed Bradley, poet Maya Angelou, and tennis great, the late Arthur Ashe. Over the years Gordon has become a newsmaker in his own right. He has been featured in many publications including USA Today, Washington Post, Essence, Entertainment Weekly,, and was even chosen as one of People magazine's 50 most beautiful people. He is the recipient of numerous awards including the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Award of Excellence and the organization's Outstanding Journalistic Endeavor award. Other awards include an Emmy and the Communication Excellence to Black Audiences (CEBA) awards for Merit, Distinction, and Excellence. Gordon has also been nominated for an ACE award, cable television's highest honor. From 1985-1988 Gordon served as host of Detroit Black Journal, the nation's longest running locally produced public affairs program. He also co-hosted No Crime Day with Detroit Piston basketball star Isaiah Thomas. The program encouraged youth to stay away from crime.
Lou Gossett, Jr. Winner of an Academy Award for his performance in "An Officer and a Gentleman," Lou Gossett, Jr. is recognized as one of the leading actors of his generation. He speaks on civil rights as well as racism in Hollywood.
Stedman Graham Noted businessman and entrepreneur, Stedman Graham is the author of You Can Make It Happen: A Nine Step Plan For Success; Build Your Own Life Brand: A Powerful Strategy to Maximize Your Potential and Enhance Your Value for Ultimate Achievement; and You can Make It Happen Everyday. An inspirational and practical program for achieving success and creating a better life.
Lawrence Otis Graham Nationally known author, attorney and commentator on race, politics and diversity in America. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Larry is the author of 13 non-fiction books including Our Kind of People: Inside America's Black Upper Class. His business diversity book Proversity: Getting Past Face Value was selected by the Society of Human Resource Managers and is used widely by coporate diversity managers. He previously wrote The Best Companies for Minorities.
Gran Folklorico de Mexico An exciting, colorful folk dance company from Mexico City complete with mariachi band, marimba players and singers. The troupe performs dances of every region, covering 1,000 years of Mexican history with spectacle and pageantry.
Dr. Gwendolyn Grant Well known psychologist, educator, sex therapist and for the last fourteen years, advice columnist for Essence magazine, Dr. Gwendolyn Goldsby Grant serves as regular consultant for several Fortune 500 companies and has conducted countless workshops and lectures on male-female relationships. She has appeared nationally on "Oprah," "Sally Jesse Raphael," "Geraldo," "Rolanda," "The NewHour with Jim Lehrer and Black Entertainment Television. She is the author of The Best Kind of Loving: A Black Woman's Guide to Finding Intimacy.
Earl Graves Publisher of Black Enterprise magazine.
Fred D. Gray The leading civil rights lawyer in America, Fred Gray's legal career spans a time period of over forty years. His career began in 1954 when he represented Rosa parks who was arrested because she refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man, which ignited the Montgomery Bus Boycott. He was also Martin Luther King Jr.'s first civil rights attorney. Fred Gray is the author of Bus Ride to Justice (1995) and The Tuskegee Syphilis Study (1998).
Bridget Gray At age 15 Bridget Gray entered a poetry contest with a vunerable poem about the father she has never met. The piece took top honors and was published. This was just small glimpse of what was to come. After persuing a degree in theatre and dance at Northern Illinois University Bridget decided to take her chances in Los Angeles. With little more than her ambition she left the mid-west to follow her dream of being an actress and a writer. Persitance paid off and she has had several film and television apperances including a cameo in "Austin Powers 2", guest starring roles on CBS' "The District", UPN's "The Hughley's", Disney's " The Magic Jersey and a feature in Madonna's "Music" video. Although she was working as an actress, Bridget's passion for writing had not been forgotten. In 1998 she combined both her loves- performance and poetry. In 1999 she won the first competitive poetry slam she ever entered. Soon after that she started rocking mics at hip-hop spots all over Soutern California. Bridget hasn't stopped trailblazing on the spokenword scene since. She continued to win various slams across the country including HBO's Soul Poetry Slam, The Battle of L.A. and The Nuyorican in N.Y. Bridget is the only female to become a two time Grand Slam Champion back to back in L.A. and Hollywood, securing her a spot on both perspective slam teams which she represented for in 3 National Poetry Competitions. In 2003 Bridget was chosen from over 400 poets/MC's across the country to become the voice and face for Nissan's "Electric Moyo" campaign. She took on the alias Sypher1 and hit the road for a 3 month nation wide tour. She made stops 10 major cities across the country, hosting some the hottest events and opening for name acts such as The Black Eyed Peas, Joss Stone and Eryakah Badu just to name a few. Along the way she interviewed local artists and celebrities inside a customized sedan that had been turned into a mobile broadcasting station that allowed her to pirate into 66 national Nissan radio advertisements. The spots were so cutting edge the Ad Age magazine ranked Electric Moyo #4 in the top 10 Non-Traditional Campaigns in 2003, listing Sypher1 [bridget gray] as the poetess running the show. In 2004 the success of this campaign lead Bridget to become the host of a nationally syndicated radio program airing in the same 10 cities she toured. Main stream Radio One stations including L.A.'s 100.3, Chicago's 92.3, and N.Y. 107.5 got a dose of spokenword and interviews with Bridget in the driver seat. Guests on her show included Alicia Keys, Ice Cube, Issac Hayes, Kelis and many more. Currently, 2005 marks the long awaited release of Bridget's 2nd cd "Self Love" with tracks produced by Grammy nominated Spontaneous, and industry vetran Rochad Holiday. She still volunteers with youth and regularly performs at L.A hot spots as well as special engagements through out the country
William H. Gray III William Gray was the Majority Whip of the House of Representatives and served as the Chairman of the powerful House Budget Committee while in the U.S. Congress. He is now president of the United Negro College Fund.
Ernest Green Ernest Green Member of the "Little Rock Nine" Consultant born in Little Rock, Arkansas, September 22, 1941, Green earned his high school diploma from Central High School in Little Rock. He and eight other black students were the first to integrate Central High, following the 1954 US Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education that declared segregation illegal. They later would become known as the "Little Rock Nine." Green then went on to receive his bachelors in social science and masters in sociology from Michigan State University. He also received honorary doctorates from Michigan State University, Tougaloo College, and Central State University. Ernest G. Green is presently the Managing Director of Public Finance for Lehman Brothers' Washington, DC office. Since joining Lehman Brothers in 1987, Green has served as senior investment banker on transactions for such key clients as the City of New York, State of New York, and the City of Chicago to name a few. He has also been appointed as chairman of the African Development Foundation, by President Clinton, and chairman of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Capital Financing Advisory Board by Secretary of Education, Richard W. Riley. Prior to joining Lehman Brothers, Green was president of Ernest Green & Associates, a minority consulting firm that provided technical assistance in marketing, financial management, and economic forecasting. Green served as Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employment and Training during the Carter Administration where he formulated the US Presidential Policy and directed implementation of a vast range of activities. Prior to his appointment as Assistant Secretary, Green served as Executive Director of the Recruitment and Training Program, Inc., an organization that recruits minorities for apprenticeship programs in the building trades. Green is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the Executive Leadership Council, the Legislative Action Committee of the Public Securities Association, and chairs the National Association of Securities Professionals and Africare. Recently, he joined Winrock International's board of directors. He has also served on the Board of Directors of the March of Dimes Foundation and the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation. The recipient of numerous awards Green was the youngest recipient of the NAACP's Spingard Medal, at the age of seventeen. On November 9, 1999, President Clinton presented Green, along with the rest of the "Little Rock nine," the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor given to a civilian, for outstanding bravery during the integration of Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Several books, movies and documentaries have been produced chronicling Green and his eight classmates historic year at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas - the most recent being the Ernest Green Story, produced and distributed by the Walt Disney Corporation.
Jehmu Greene Jehmu Greene is a political activist, strategist, and motivational speaker. She served as President of Rock the Vote from 2003 - 2005. From 2000-2003, she served in numerous positions at the organization including Executive Director, Deputy Director, Campaign Director, Public Relations Director, and Partnership Director. Prior to Rock the Vote, she served as the Director of Women's Outreach and Southern Political Director at the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Jehmu also served as the Program Director for the Center for Policy Alternatives' Youth Voices Project and National Student Voter Education Day. Jehmu has been recognized as one of Essence Magazine's 40 Women Under 40 Shaping the World, and received the National Conference for Community and Justice's Community Service Award, American Association of University Women's Women of Distinction Award and National Council for Research on Women Women Making a Difference Award.
Monique Greenwood Monique Greenwood Former Editor-in-Chief of Essence magazine & Author of Having What Matters: The Black Woman's Guide to Creating the Life You Really Want Program Title - Having What Matters... Monique Greenwood knows that having it all isn’t where it’s at—it’s having what matters. The former editor-in-chief of Essence magazine and author of *Having What Matters: The Black Woman’s Guide to Creating the Life You Really Want* has achieved enormous professional success which she measures not in dollars, but in personal satisfaction and fulfillment. For three years, Greenwood served as editor-in-chief of Essence magazine, the nation’s leading publication for African American women. She is co-founder and national president of the Go On Girl! Book Club, the largest African American book club in the country. She is an owner of two acclaimed bed-and-breakfast inns, entrepreneur, community activist, wife and mother. Greenwood graduated magna cum laude graduate from Howard University and is an alumna of the Program for Developing Managers at Simmons Graduate School of Business. An inspirational speaker, Greenwood’s varied experiences provide a fascinating backdrop for actionable advice on how to achieve a balanced life. Her lecture topics include making time for “me,” building community for “the new urban entrepreneur, bursting through boundaries and not being limited by the limited imaginations of others and how to make your dreams come true
Dick Gregory Well known comedian and social activist.
Eddie Griffin With DysFunKtional Family, Scary Movie 3 and My Baby's Mama out on DVD, Deuce Bigalow: European Gigolo coming in August and a starring role in New Regency's comedy Romantic Comedy currently shooting, Eddie Griffin is now enjoying the film career that he always planned. He is best known to television audiences as the star of UPN's hit comedy series Malcolm & Eddie. Griffin was nominated for an NAACP Image Award for "Best Actor in a Comedy Series" for his portrayal. He also wrote and directed four episodes of the sitcom, one of which starred his mentor, Richard Pryor.
Griots in Concert Continuing the African tradition of storytelling and drumming, Griots in Concert creates a charming, inspirational, educational and motivational performance presenting stories, music and song from Africa, the Caribbean and America.
Lani Guinier Dr. Lani Guinier, the first black female to receive tenure at Harvard Law School. In 1993, President Bill Clinton made Guinier the first black woman nominated to head the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. Although she had been a civil rights attorney for more than 10 years and had severed in the Civil Rights Division during the Carter Administration, conservative opposition forced Clinton to later withdraw the nomination. Guinier, who was thrust into the public eye, used her new recognition to speak out on issues of race and gender. She has since become one of the nation's most sought after speakers. Guiniers passion for civil rights issues took root in 1962, when Guinier was just 12 years old. The televised image of Constance Baker Motely, then an attorney for the NAACP's Legal Defense Fund, escorting James Meredith to the all white University of Mississippi, inspired Guinier in a way that would shape her future. It was then that she decided she would be a woman lawyer in the cause of civil rights.
Bryant Gumbel Well known broadcast journalist and anchor of CBS's "Early Show." and HBO Sports
Henry H. Parker One of America's leading authorities in the field of teaching Standard English by means of contrastive analysis with Ebonics. Professor Parker has taught Standard English via Ebonics from the pre-school to the college level and is a frequent contributor to television, radio and newspaper on Ebonics issues. He is the author of a definitive text on the subject entitled, Teaching Minorities To Play The Corporate Language Game. Womanist View..
Andrew Hacker Diversity expert and author of Two Nations: Black and White, Separate, Hostile, Unequal.
Jon Haggins Motivational speaker who inspires people to get up and go, that anything is possible. My background includes fashion, travel, interior and food. I have been featured in and have written for numerous publications. I have also been a spokesperson for Procter and Gamble's Ultra Detergents. The Museum of the City of New York is presently exhibiting a retrospective of my fashion designs. And the Schomburg Library has acquired my fashion archive of photographs and editorials. I am the producer and host of GlobeTrotter Jon Haggins TV; a half-hour weekly travel show that's available in 2 million Time Warner subscriber homes in New York City and streamed over the Internet. In addition, I have contributed travel segments to NPR Radio. NPR has a listening audience of 25 million. GlobeTrotter Jon Haggins TV is a fun, informative and entertaining program that features destinations, foodies and guests from around the world. The main goal is to expand our audience horizon beyond their couch and allow them to discover many dreamy far away places where they can reach for the stars. I have written The African American Travel Guide, which is an informative book, that offers advise on where to get a passport, where to exchange money, security precautions, bartering in the markets and what to pack etc. I also share narratives of my travel experiences. In addition to my book, I have contributed short stories to Eric Copage's -Soul Food Book. I was an invited speaker at the Smithsonian Museum in DC and have appeared on numerous radio and TV shows such as: CNN-Daybreak, Joan Hamburg-WOR Radio, Sunday Classics with Hal Jackson WBLS Radio, Sean Cort-Breakfast Cort and the Bob Law show on WWRL Radio, Geraldo, Regis & Kathie Lee, Saturday Morning Tribune, Midday Live, Evening Magazine and The McCreary Report, just to name a few. And let me not forget that I was a voice for FOX-TV's public service announcement, "It's Ten PM. Do you know where your children are?" My fashions have graced seven Cosmopolitan Magazine covers and eighty-five inside pages. They have also appeared in Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, Essence, New York Magazine, Town and Country, New York Times etc. Celebrities such as Diana Ross, Helen Gurley Brown, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Debbie Allen, Felicia Rashad, Racquel Welch, Diahann Carroll, Lynn Redgrave have worn my fashions. Cornel University honored me with a month long exhibition of my designs in the Johnson Museum. I have also designed costumes for several Off-Broadway shows and several Soap Operas and TV shows, such as: The Debbie Allen Special, As the World turns, One Life to Live, Love boat, Star Search and Good Day-New York. And special projects for Clairol, Matrix, Estee Lauder, Revlon, Seagram, Procter & Gamble and Chesebrough Ponds.
Shirley Taylor Haizlip Shirley Taylor Haizlip's best selling book The Sweeter the Juice: A Family Memoir in Black & White,is a provocative memoir that goes to the heart of our American identity. While searching for her mother's family, Blacks who passed for whites, she confronts the tensions of race and skin color.
Arsenio Hall Well known comedian, actor and television talk show host.
Ken Hamblin Considered a new Black conservative, Ken Hamblin is a nationally syndicated talk show host whose daily program airs in 125 cities across the country. His newspaper column appears in The New York Times Syndicate and he publishes a newsletter entitled "Ken Hamblin Talks America." He is the author of Pick a Better Country: An Unassuming Colored Guy Speaks His Mind About America.
Nathan Hare Eminent sociologist, and psychotherapist, Nathan Hare was the first coordinator of a Black Studies program in the U.S. and the founding publisher of The Black Scholar. Nathan Hare is the editor and publisher of the magazine, Black Male/Female Relationships and is the author of The Black Anglo Saxons.
Hill Harper Despite his many accolades and awards, or maybe because of them, Hill Harper made a commitment to work in service of our youth. To pass along the lessons he learned and provide a foundation for young brothers and sisters to use as a launching pad to success. Hill knew early on that education is the key to unlock potential and open doors. He pursued his education with a passion and determination that resulted in him graduating Magna Cum Laude from Brown University. But not satisfied with that success, he went on to earn graduate degrees in Law and Public Administration from Harvard University.After achieving his goals in higher education, Hill began to pursue his career in acting with the same dedication and discipline he exhibited in the classroom. His hard work paid off as he is now seen in the hit CBS drama, CSI:NY. His appearance on the show has earned him two NAACP Image Awards. Prior to his current series Hill appeared in the CBS series' City of Angels and The Handler and he made numerous guest starring appearances in top shows such as Soul Food, The Sopranos, ER, NYPD Blue, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Of course, Hill is also an accomplished and acclaimed film actor he recently starred in the HBO movie, Lackawanna Blues and received critical acclaim for his performance in the independent film, The Visit. Again, Hill's film credits are numerous and include appearances in In Too Deep, Beloved, He Got Game, Get On The Bus, Zooman, and One Red Rose [which he co-wrote for Showtime.]He has been awarded an additional three NAACP Image awards for his literary accomplishments Outstanding Literary Work: Youth/Teens (2007, 2008) and Outstanding Literary Work: Debut Author (2007). Hill has authored his first book for adults: The Conversation: How Black Men and Women Can Build Loving, Trusting Relationships; it has also been recognized as a New York Times Bestseller. Also Letters to a Young Sister: DeFINE Your Destiny, published in 2008 and "The Conversation", published in 2009.
Leslie Harris One of today's youngest and hottest filmmakers, Leslie Harris made her directorial debut with the critically acclaimed movie, "Just Another Girl on the IRT."
Kevin Hart What do people usually say about Kevin Hart? Well aside from the fact that he can remember about as much as a rock, he is quickly becoming one of the hottest comics and actors hitting the Hollywood scene. While touring the college circuit, Kevin is always busy juggling his stand-up, acting and writing skills for both his new TV series as well as his comedy routine. From everyday stories about relationships to being trapped on a mountain in a blizzard in Colorado, Kevin's ability to relate his hilarious antics captivate his audiences and leave people rolling in the aisles. After successfully reaching his goal of making a name for himself in comedy clubs and on college campuses (although no one is sure how, considering he's only 5'4"), Kevin has started to make waves on both TV and the big screen.
Judge Glenda Hatchett Judge Hatchett is a nationally-syndicated television program produced and distributed by Sony Pictures Television. It stars the Honorable Glenda Hatchett and is modeled after "judge shows" such as The People's Court and Judge Judy. In addition to dealing with traditional small-claims lawsuits (with a plaintiff, a defendant, and monetary awards sought), she also handles DNA Paternity Tests and Out of Control Teens. Judge Hatchett is criticised by some for being overly harsh to younger defendants, especially minors in her "Out of Control Teens" situations. Her fans, however, interpret her seemingly harsh demeanor as "tough love" and proof that she cares about them and wants to set them on the right path. Judge hatchett's program is featured on the news station Fox 5 at 3 P.M. through 4 P.M., after the hour-long Judge Alex and preceded by another hour-long Fox 5 News At 5 program. It features real cases in a variety of different kinds of civil cases, from unprotected sex and pregnancy at a young age to fights at an older age, as well as rich cases of harassment and classic civil lawsuits.
Tremaine Hawkins Grammy award winner for Best Traditional Gospel Record "Live!" and Famous for her recording "The Joy that Floods My Soul," Tremaine, her band and singers provide an inspiring, unforgettable evening.
Spencer Haywood Olympic gold medal winner in basketball and an NBA superstar, Spencer Haywood retired from pro basketball intent on kicking his cocaine habit. After rehabilitation, he rebuilt his life and is now the president of a company which renovates Detroit's inner city housing for low-income families. A respected community leader, and a sought after motivational speaker, Haywood also devotes much of his time to lecturing on the perils of drugs. He tells a story of hope and triumph in his book, Spencer Haywood: The Rise, The Fall, The Recovery.
Joan Hecht Imagine youre a young boy maybe as young as three or four separated from your family by civil war, traversing deserts and mountains with little food or water, no medical care, and no protection from wild animals. Imagine watching hundreds of boys perish around you from hunger, disease, or attacks by enemy soldiers and wild animals. To most of us, it is unimaginable, but this was reality for The Lost Boys of Sudan, thousands of young boys who were separated from their families and forced to walk approximately 1,000 miles to reach safe refuge from war and certain death. For the first time, The Journey of the Lost Boys offers readers a chronological timeline of the epic journey taken by these children, beginning in their rural villages of Southern Sudan and ending with their arrival as young men to the United States. Narrated through the voice of Joan Hecht, one of their American mentors, whom they lovingly call mom or Mama Joan; The Journey of the Lost Boys is a compelling story of courage, faith and the sheer determination to survive by a group of young orphaned boys. Because of Ms. Hechts personal relationship with them, she is able to portray their story in a way that most famous reporters and authors cannot. Each page, says Ms. Hecht, is written from the depths of my heart and filled with my love and admiration for these young men whom many call the Lost Boys of Sudan, but whom I proudly call my sons. In addition to Ms. Hechts extensive research of the political and historical events surrounding this long lasting civil war, are the heart rending personal stories of the boys themselves. It is a story like no other story Ive ever heard, says Ms Hecht. I only hope that I have given it the respect and recognition it deserves.
John Henton After five years on the Fox hit television series "Living Single," John Henton has earned a name for himself as one of today's leading comic talents. Through the lovable and sensible character of "Overton Wakefield Jones," Henton has found a loyal and endearing following.John Henton, Comedian and rest of cast of "Living Single" As seen at an appearance on Comedy Central's Premium Blend, Henton's appeal goes beyond the character he played on television as he captivated the audience with his observational and topical humor. John Henton has returned to series television on the ABC comedy "The Hughleys." Now with the character of Milsap, he continues his success into the new millennium.Born and raised in Cleveland, John never entertained the thought of a career in comedy. In 1982, while working during the day and studying computer science at night, he was urged by a co-worker to try his jokes at a local comedy club's amateur night. By his second night, he won the amateur night contest and began stand-up part time. John made the move to Los Angeles in 1985 and by 1988 started his stand-up career full time.John Henton After taking his comedy on the road for a year and winning the 1991 Johnny Walker National Comedy Search, he was spotted by "The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson" comedy executive, the late Jim McCawley, who booked him for a performance on the show.As he finished his set, John looked to Carson for his approval and received much more. He was called over to take a seat on the coveted couch where Carson asked him if he had an agent. To John's reply of "no," Carson mugged, "Well you will after tonight." It was a performance that John says gave his career a "serious jump-start."Since then John Henton has made appearances on "The Arsenio Hall Show" and "Bob Hope's Young Comedian's Special" as well as returning to "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." In January 1993, he starred in his own half-hour comedy special for Showtime, "John Henton: Comedy With An Attitude.In April of 1993, he was cast in the FOX-TV series "Living Single" starring Queen Latifah and Kim Fields Freeman. The show received stellar ratings and TV Guide selected Henton's character as one of the "break out" characters of the 1993 fall season. When the show came to an end after five years, John was proud and pleased with the work he had done on the show.Even though he is now headlines his own concerts in venues around the country, John has opened for such big names as Little Richard, Paul Rodriguez, The GAP Band, The Pointer Sisters, Kool & The Gang, Kenny Loggins, Kenny G, etc.
Oscar Hijuelos Pulitzer Prize winning Hispanic author, Oscar Hijuelos wrote the best selling novel, The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love, which was made into a major motion picture and The Fourteen Sisters of Emilio Montez O'Brien.
David Hilliard Former Chief of Staff of the Black Panther party. He was active throughout every major event in the Panther's history and speaks about the FBI's secret war against them that resulted in false imprisonment and murder. Hilliard is author of This Side of Glory: An Autobiography and History of the Black Panther Party and Active and Dangerous: The U.S. War Against the Black Panthers. Hilliard currently serves as the Executive Director of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation.
Linda Hogan Native American poet, novelist and essayist, Linda Hogan is the author of Mean Spirit; Seeing Through the Sun; and The Book of Medicines.
Brain Holloway A Stanford All-American, 1st round draft pick, and 5 time All-Pro, Brian Holloway excelled as the powerhouse and team leader at the core of the 1985 New England Patriots Super Bowl team. In 1986, Brian was elected by his peers to forge the new directions in NFL policy, becoming the youngest Vice President of the NFL Players Association at age 23. He retired from the NFL in 1992 after eight seasons with the New England Patriots and two with the Los Angeles Raiders. Look for his distinguished football accomplishments to someday be recorded in Pro Football's Hall of Fame. Today, Holloway is an international motivational speaker and renowned corporate trainer. Brian's strategies and case studies are his own. They are based on practiced disciplines and proven results, not old management theories that do not reach the people. His personal style establishes trust and builds instant rapport -- the key to bringing a team together. Entertaining while instructing, Brian uses multi-media technology along with actual game footage to show his critical points on achieving new levels of excellence. These powerful, high impact presentations have immediate value for every person competing for market share in a changing and turbulent economy. Holloway's accomplishments have landed him appearances on Good Morning America, the Today show, ESPN, USA Network, and NBC Sports, and feature coverage in USA Today, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, The L.A. Times, and The Chicago Tribune. He has testified before Congress, guest lectured at Harvard Business School, and been the featured speaker at the Stanford University Centennial Celebration. Holloway has also maintained qualifying entrance for Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. Born to an Air Force family in Omaha, Nebraska in July 1959, Brian grew up to face and overcome many challenges--his youth spent adjusting to life in 12 different states, even being labeled a "slow learner." Persistence and an unstoppable spirit propelled Brian through his early struggles and on to academic and athletic awards though his high school and college years. He was heavily recruited by Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, and Princeton, and showered with over 350 scholarship offers. He chose Stanford, and there earned varsity letters in both football and track under Coach Bill Walsh. Brian's commitment to service grew throughout his playing days, when he helped develop the first College Degree Completion Program for Professional Athletes. Beyond the game, he helped establish the Challenger Center for Space Education--a living educational memorial to the ill-fated crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger. His community activism embraces the homeless and inner city youth, and he vigorously supports the Special Olympics. Brain maintains a seat on Stanford's Athletic Board and also shares his energy with D.A.R.E. and United Way. President Bill Clinton recognized Brian Holloway in 1995 as one of America's top young leaders. Holloway assists private sector organizations, Fortune 500 companies, and non-profit groups to achieve their goal of increased productivity and maximized profits. Topics: *** Unstoppable Teams and the Leadership Within: In the NFL, winning was about great dreams that could only be achieved by working seamlessly together. The culture exuded confidence. Leadership and decisions were pushed down to the front line. We were absolutely empowered to win! Winning teams excelled at speedy information sharing -- in short, learning and improving at every level. The Leaders, their language, their attitudes, and their vision created the pathways to a dynamic future and the breakthroughs to get there. In the corporate world, organizations and work teams that operate under this team commitment and learning context are worlds apart from those that operate under the traditional command and control model of management.
Evander Holyfield Pound for pound, Evander Holyfield is one of the best boxers to win the heavyweight championship. His determination and dedication is always apparent in his motivational lectures.
Derek & Darlene Powell- Hopson Well known psychologists, relationship and child-rearing experts, Derek and Darlene Hopson are authors of such books as Friends, Lovers & Soulmates: A Guide to Better Relationships Between Black Men and Women; Different and Wonderful: Raising Black Children in a Race Conscious Society; and Raising the Rainbow Generation: Teaching Your Children to Be Successful in a Multicultural Society.
Khaled Hosseini Khaled Hosseini was born in Kabul, Afghanistan in 1965. He is the oldest of five children. and his mother was a teacher of Farsi and History at a large girls high school in Kabul. In 1976, Khaled’s family was relocated to Paris, France, where his father was assigned a diplomatic post in the Afghan embassy. The assignment would return the Hosseini family in 1980, but by then Afghanistan had already witnessed a bloody communist coup and the Soviet invasion. Khaled’s family, instead, asked for and was granted political asylum in the U.S. He moved to San Jose, CA, with his family in 1980. He attended Santa Clara University and graduated from UC San Diego School of Medicine. He has been in practice as an internist since 1996. He is married, has two children (a boy and a girl, Haris and Farah). The Kite Runner is his first novel.
Arnette Hubbard One of America's leading Black lawyers and a dynamic champion of human and civil rights. Arnette Hubbard was the first woman president of the National Bar Association and is now a circuit court judge in Illinois.
Warrington Hudlin Noted filmmaker and president of the Black Filmmaker Foundation, Warrington Hudlin produced such movies as "House Party," "Boomerang," and "Bebe's Kids."
Ernie Hudson There are very few actors who can lay claim to a professional resume as long and varied as Ernie Hudson, but Hudson has always been a unique screen presence, capable of taking on any role. He was slimed when he co-starred as one of the Ghostbusters in two films; he played the simple-minded handyman Solomon in the box-office smash The Hand that Rocks the Cradle, for seven seasons he played Warden Glynn in the critically acclaimed HBO series “Oz,” he was the no nonsense training officer in ABC's "10-8", he recently completed work on Randy Miller's new feature Miss Hotchkiss Ballroom Dancing and Charm School, where he played Blake the shy, introverted widower, and is currently reprising his role as Harry McDonald, Sandra Bullock's FBI boss in Miss Congeniality 2. Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, a career in show business seemed like an unlikely path for young Ernie Hudson, who was already married with a young son when he enrolled at Wayne State University as a Speech and English major. Hudson’s early ambition was to be a writer, and was for a time the resident playwright at Detroit’s Concept East, the oldest black theater company in the country at that time. Later, he founded the Actors Ensemble Theater, which allowed him and other black performers to stage and appear in their own works. After attending Wayne State, Hudson accepted a full scholarship to the Master of Fine Arts Program at Yale University. This led to a number of regional theater roles and critical acclaim, and his feature film debut in Leadbelly. Hudson soon found himself alternating between film and television roles until 1983, when he was cast as Winston Zeddemore, the fourth member of the Ghostbusters team. The two Ghostbusters films, starring Bill Murray and Dan Akroyd, were huge box-office hits and gave Hudson a higher profile than he had ever known. He continued to work at a steady pace developing a broad and varied fan base. “Black, white, young, old, people recognize me from a wide variety of movies. I haven’t worked in just one genre, and my roles have varied as well.” Hudson’s subsequent screen roles included parts in Weeds with Nick Nolte, Leviathan, Sugar Hill, The Cowboy Way, Speechless, No Escape, The Substitute, Basketball Diaries and The Hand that Rocks the Cradle. "Oz" series co-creator Tom Fontana had worked with Hudson when he guest-starred on eight episodes of “St. Elsewhere” years ago, and cast him as Warden Leo Glynn, the fair-minded warden of the high-tech experimental unit of a maximum-security prison. “Oz” was one of HBO’s signature programs and ran for seven seasons. “It’s a hard show to watch because of the brutal nature of prison life, but I do think it made a very strong statement and the writing was very powerful.” Hudson won the International Press Academy Golden Satellite Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Drama Series for his work on “Oz.”
Ericka Huggins A former Black Panther Party leader, Ericka Huggins lectures on such topics as, History of the Black Panther Party; Women in the Black Panther Party; "Women in the Black Liberation Movement," "The Incarnation & Dismantling of the Black Panther Party;" and "Freedom is an Inside Job: A Personal Explanation of Self-Inquiry as a Crucial Tool for Supporting the Upliftment of Humanity."
Black Ice Black Ice was born Lamar Manson in Philadelphia, where he began perfecting his craft on the streets of North Philly. Russell Simmons discovered Black Ice at New York's Soul the pitch for HBO's Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry. The meeting led to Black Ice being the first spoken-word artist signed to Simmons' Def Jam Records. Performing spoken word since 1994, Black Ice has received standing ovations from audiences as diverse as those at the Hip-Hop Summit, the Black Congressional Caucus, the Source Youth Foundation and SHiNE. Black Ice's focus is in the sharing of messages that help nurture and build character among our young people. Black Ice was a cast member of the critically acclaimed, Tony Award-winning show Def Poetry Jam on Broadway which traveled as far as Scotland for the 2003 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and he has appeared on all three seasons Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry on HBO.
Immaculee Ilibagiza Immaculee Ilibagiza is a survivor of the Rwandan genocide and author of Left to Tell and Led by Faith. Immaculee is a living example of faith put into action. Immaculees life was transformed dramatically during the 1994 Rwandan genocide when she and seven other women spent 91 days hiding, huddled silently together in the cramped bathroom of a local pastors house. She emerged to find that nearly her entire family had been brutally murdered. Immaculee found solace and peace in prayer and began to pray from the time she opened her eyes in the morning to the time she closed her eyes at night. Through prayer, she eventually found it possible, and in fact imperative, to forgive her tormentors and her familys murderers. This is a powerful presentation of faith and forgiveness.
Iman Popular high fashion model and actress, Iman is also a woman of conscience. As a native of Somalia, she is actively involved in the hunger crisis that is plaguing her country. An entrepreneur, she has developed a make-up and skin care product line.
In Process An a capella singing group composed of African American women from various professions and backgrounds sharing in the oral tradition of African American culture and a love of singing. Protegees of "Sweet Honey in the Rock," from whom they learned their craft, In Process has performed for Black History Month programs as well as programs dedicated to peace and non-violence.
Jaqueline Jackson A gifted motivational speaker, Jaqueline Jackson, wife of Reverend Jesse Jackson, delivers a message of hope and inspiration to her audiences.
Jesse Jackson Reverend Jesse Jackson is one of America's foremost political figures. For more than thirty years he has played a pivotal role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality, economic and social justice. A two-time presidential candidate and a leader in the fight against South African apartheid, he has been on the Gallup List of "Ten Most Respected Americans" for the past ten years. Reverend Jesse Jackson serves as president of the National Rainbow Coalition and is one of America's foremost political figures. Over the past three decades he has played a major role in virtually every movement for empowerment, peace, civil rights, gender equality and economic and social justice. Rev. Jackson has been called the "conscience of the nation" and "the great unifier," challenging America to establish just and humane priorities and bringing people together on common ground across lines of race, class, gender and belief. Years before they were common positions, Rev. Jackson was advocating national health care, a war on drugs and peace negotiations with the Soviet Union and the Middle East. His strong stand against apartheid in South Africa in 1984 made it a forefront national issue. Rev. Jackson's two presidential campaigns broke new ground in U.S. politics. His 1984 campaign won 3.5 million votes, registered over a million new voters and helped the Democratic Party regain control of the Senate in 1986. His 1988 candidacy won seven million votes and registered two million new voters. His clear progressive agenda and his ability to build an unprecedented coalition inspired millions to join the political process. As a highly respected world leader, Rev. Jackson has acted many times as an international diplomat in sensitive situations. In 1984, he secured the release of captured Navy Lieutenant Robert Goodman from Syria, as well as the release of 48 Cuban and Cuban-American prisoners in 1987. He was the first American to bring hostages out of Kuwait and Iraq in 1990. Rev. Jackson was elected a U.S. Senator from Washington, D.C. in 1990, a position also known as "Statehood Shadow Senator." The office was created to advocate for statehood for Washington, D.C. A hallmark of Rev. Jackson's work has been his commitment to the youth. He has visited thousands of high schools, colleges and universities, encouraging excellence and challenging students to stay in school and away from drugs. He has also been a major force in the American labor movement, working with unions to organize workers, mediating labor disputes, walking picket lines and speaking at labor rallies. He has visited prisons, bringing comfort to the abandoned and discouraging recidivism. Rev. Jackson has received numerous honors for his work in human rights and social justice. In 1991, the U.S. Post Office placed his likeness on a pictorial postal cancellation, only the second living person to receive such an honor. He has been on the Gallup List of Ten Men Most Respected by Americans for 10 years. He has also received the prestigious NAACP Springarn Award and been awarded over 40 honorary degrees.
Mark Jackson Mark Jackson is a former professional basketball player who played point guard for the New York Knicks, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, and Houston Rockets in the NBA in a career spanning from 1987 to 2004. He is currently an NBA analyst for The YES Network's New Jersey Nets games, ESPN and ABC.
Gloria Jackson Gloria Jackson is a powerful, compelling and engaging speaker. She speaks eloquently on the topics of faith, freedom, family, character development, education and economic empowerment. At the same time she sets out, with great clarity the extraordinarily inspiring and uplifting truths of the life, legacy and liberating philosophy of her great grandfather, Booker T. Washington . Enjoy listening as Gloria weaves the story of how her great grandfather, through a life of discipline and sheer determination, rose "Up From Slavery" to become one of America's greatest heroes and leaders. Relive how Booker T. Washington founded Tuskegee Institute and the National Negro Business League and encouraged Blacks toward economic independence. In 1905, Tuskegee turned out more self-made millionaires than Yale, Harvard, and Princeton universities combined. Learn of his commitment to reach back to those in need in Africa, the very continent that had sold his ancestors into slavery, and to other blacks throughout the world. Be reminded of how a young Black visionary with a call upon his life, shaped Tuskegee to become a vehicle of inspiration and encouragement and the greatest single influence toward encouraging Black Americans to begin the difficult walk toward a prosperous future. Gloria is the founder and president of the Booker T. Washington Inspirational Speakers' Network. She is an attorney and a real estate broker and she currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
Erin Jackson Equal parts sarcasm and insightful commentary, Erins comedy offers an honest and hilarious look at her life and the world in which it takes place. Since making a name for herself in the comedy clubs of Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD, Erin has garnered national attention with appearances on "The Bob and Tom Radio Show" and Comedy Central's Live at Gotham. Erin was also the winner of the Oxygen Network's 2007 "So You Think You're Funny?" Contest. Although her universal appeal is certain to take her far, Erin is in no rush to achieve celebrity status. She is, however, looking forward to the day when she becomes famous enough to move to Hollywood, buy a mansion and marry a White woman the ultimate symbol of success for black celebrities.
Keith Jackson Keith Jackson has also combined his college degree in communications and his professional playing experience to become a broadcast analyst with TNT television for one year, the Oklahoma Sooner football radio network in 1998, Fox Sports Network in 1999 and the Arkansas Razorback Sports Network in 2000. He has become one of the most dynamic and inspirational speakers in the country. His speaking engagements include churches, civic groups, corporations and schools. Keith speaks from one gamut of the spectrum to the next. And when it comes to pleasing the crowd, Keith has a natural knack for doing just that. With his wealth of knowledge and sense of humor, all audiences regardless of age, sex, race or political agenda are completely focused on what he has to say. One conference attendee said, "Your speech was the highlight of the conference for me. I found your stories and your passion for helping those in need to be very inspiring. Most of all, your practical approach to education and self-suffiency was so down-to-earth and refreshing. You inspired me a great deal and put a renewed spark in my efforts to make a difference." Keith speaks from an array of topics such as: Community Building, Teamwork, Education, Sports, Religion, as well as, other motivational topics. If there is someone or an entire group needing uplifting or that extra push to become all they can be, Keith is certainly the one to get them to the next level in their life or business.
Jesse Jackson, Jr. U.S. Congressman from Illinois and the former National Field Director of the National Rainbow Coalition, Jesse Jackson, Jr. is an attorney, minister, human rights activist and a gifted powerful speaker.
John Jacobs Leading civil rights activist and former director of the National Urban League.
Kelvin Christopher James A well known novelist and native of Trinidad, Kelvin Christopher James is the author of such critically accalimed books as Jumping Ship & Other Stories; and Secrets: A Novel.
Benjamin Todd Jealous Benjamin Todd Jealous grew up believing that there was no higher calling than to further the cause of freedom in this country and in the world. It is a mindset he inherited from of his parents and grandparents. Their drive for community betterment blazed the trail for Jealous own deep commitment to social justice, public service and human rights activism. Now, as the 17th President and Chief Executive Officer of the NAACP, and the youngest person to hold the position in the organization’s nearly 100-year history, Jealous is well positioned to answer the call. During his career, he has served as president of the Rosenberg Foundation, director of the U.S. Human Rights Program at Amnesty International and Executive Director of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a federation of more than 200 black community newspapers. From his early days of organizing voter registration drives up until his nomination and election as NAACP president, Jealous has been motivated by civic duty and a constant need to improve the lives of America's underrepresented. All things considered, Jealous’ leadership roles and active community involvement have well prepared him for his current duties as president of the NAACP. In fact, his path through journalism and the Black Press is not unlike several other former NAACP presidents, including Roy Wilkins, Walter White, Ida B. Wells and W.E.B. Dubois. As a student at Columbia University, he worked in Harlem as a community organizer for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. On campus, Jealous led school-wide movements, including boycotts and pickets for homeless rights, a successful campaign to save full-need financial and need-blind admissions when other national universities were cutting such programs, and an environmental justice battle with the University. These protests ultimately led to the suspension of Jealous and three other student leaders. Jealous used this time off to work as a field organizer helping to lead a campaign that prevented the State of Mississippi from closing two of its three public historically black universities, and converting one of them into a prison. He remained in Mississippi to take a job at the Jackson Advocate, an African American newspaper based in the state’s capital. His reporting -- for the frequently firebombed weekly -- was credited with exposing corruption amongst high-ranking officials at the state prison in Parchman. His investigations also helped to acquit a small black farmer who had been wrongfully and maliciously accused of arson. His work at the Jackson Advocate eventually lead to his promotion to Managing Editor. In 1997, Jealous returned to Columbia University and completed his degree in political science. With the encouragement of mentors, he applied and was accepted to Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar where he earned a master's degree in comparative social research. Jealous eventually went on to serve as Executive Director of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). While at the NNPA, he rebuilt its 90-year old national news service and launched a web-based initiative that more than doubled the number of black newspapers publishing online. Most recently, Jealous was President of the Rosenberg Foundation, a private independent institution that funds civil and human rights advocacy to benefit California's working families. Prior to that, he was Director of the U.S. Human Rights Program at Amnesty International. While there he led efforts to pass federal legislation against prison rape, rebuild public consensus against racial profiling in the wake of the September 2001 terrorist attacks, and expose the widespread sentencing of children to life without the possibility of parole. Active in civic life, Jealous is a board member of the California Council for the Humanities, and the Association of Black Foundation Executives, as well as a member of the Asia Society. He is married to Lia Epperson Jealous, a professor of constitutional law and former civil rights litigator with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund. They presently reside in Washington, DC with their young daughter.
Lil JJ Lil JJ, star of Nickelodeons hot new TV show Just Jordan, is taking the comedy world by storm. Dubbed The Prince of Comedy, this Little Rock, Arkansas native won BETs Coming to the Stage at the early age of fourteen and has been performing ever since to sold out audiences throughout the country. In addition to his live engagements, he has had show stopping performances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno as well as Showtime at the Apollo. On the big screen, Lil JJ has starred in such movies as Beauty Shop with Queen Latifah and Yours, Mine and Ours with Dennis Quaid and Rene Russo. JJs introduction to Hollywood had him competing on and winning, Coming to the Stage, BET's comedy competition game show where he went up against and beat comics more than twice his age to become the show's ultimate winner. JJ was a run-away favorite on "Stage," where the celebrity panel deemed him to be "The Next Superstar of Funny."
Daymond John Daymond John Founder and CEO of FUBU Program Title - The Business of Hip-Hop Culture: An Evening With FUBU (For Us, By Us ) FUBU CEO Daymond John is all about endless possibilites. What began in 1992 as a hat business run by John and his friends from a basement in Queens, NY is today a $450 million enterprise that's revolutionized the fashion industry and helped define the look of young America. John is a product of a young child's aspirations to be more than a storeowner, but rather the head of a corporation. He has come a long way since owning a commuter van service to being the CEO and president of a much celebrated retail enterprise. But it didn't happen overnight! John took out a $100,000 mortgage on his mother's house and moved his operation into the basement. With the help of neighborhood friends Alexander Martin (VP) Keith Perrin (co-founder) and Carl Brown (co-founder), who shared his vision, Team FUBU was born. FUBU gradually expanded their line to include hockey jerseys, T-shirts and baseball caps. After finding it difficult to market their clothing through traditional advertising channels, they succeeded in promoting its line by using celebrities and hip hop artists, most notably LL Cool J. FUBU represents determination, excellence, and boldness - characteristics that the company's CEO embodies as well. John oversees the organization's production flow, which involves dealing with every aspect of the FUBU structure. "My job is to take our ideas and funnel it all together. We are the consumer making for the consumer." That uncomplicated approach is the force behind the company's success. It is also why FUBU continues to grow and evolve. John is always receptive to pursuing different ventures. The word risk and entrepreneur go hand-in-hand. Making the FUBU name synonymous with the music and entertainment industry, as it is with the fashion world, is an objective for John. However, longevity for FUBU is his main goal. "We are in this for the long run." FUBU has received numerous honors for entrepreneurial achievements including - NAACP's "Entrepreneurs of the Year" Award; Congressional Achievement Award for Entrepreneurship; the Essence Award; N.Y. African American Business Awards' "Outstanding Business Achievement" Award; and a Citation of Honor for "Team FUBU" from the Office of the President, Borough of Queens, City of New York.
Magic Johnson Earvin Johnson, Jr. may best be known for his winning ways during his illustrious 13-year NBA career, but today the basketball legend directs his efforts toward his growing business and philanthropic empire, Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE). Unparalleled Athletic Success Earvin Magic Johnson is famous for his brilliant passing skills, all-around sublime talent, illuminating smile, and engaging personality. During his 12-year pro basketball career, Johnson led the LA Lakers to five NBA championships and nine appearances in the NBA Finals. After announcing that he was HIV-positive and retiring from basketball in 1991, he was voted as a starter in the 1992 All-Star Game, and later chosen as a member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Basketball Team. We Are the Communities We Serve While Mr. Johnson may be best known for his prowess on the basketball court, he is also a successful businessman and committed philanthropist. The Magic Johnson Foundation (MJF) is a non-profit organization that provides support to community-based organizations that serve the health, educational and social needs of inner-city youth and organizations. In addition, the Foundation is committed to raising awareness about several health and social concerns that threaten under-served communities.
Roy Johnson Roy S. Johnson, an Assistant Managing Editor for Sports Illustrated, pens the weekly "Pass the Word" column for SI.com. This is his third stint at the magazine. Johnson began his journalism career at SI as a reporter from 1978-81. From 1982-89, Johnson worked at the New York Times, before returning to SI as a senior editor in 1989. During that tenure, Johnson co-authored the magazine's exclusive, first-person account of Magic Johnson's sudden retirement from the NBA due to the HIV virus. Johnson has also spent time at Savoy and Fortune. He has co-authored two books: Magic's Touch (Addison Wesley) with Earvin Johnson and Outrageous (Simon & Schuster) with Charles Barkley. In addition to his professional credentials, Johnson is a longstanding member of the National Association of Black Journalists; a board member of the International Amateur Athletic Foundation; and helps oversee the Bill Spiller/Homeboy Golf Classic. He created the Roy S. Johnson Foundation, which provides financial assistance to minority youth from his hometown (Tulsa, Okla.) who are interested in pursuing an education at prestigious Holland Hall Preparatory School, Johnson's alma mater.
Jeff Johnson Jeff Johnson Political Motivator and Social Commentator Program Title: Unclaimed Legacy: Beyond Civil Rights Jeff Johnson is a political motivator and social commentator speaking to baby boomers, the Hip-Hop generation and to Generation Y the leaders of today and yesterday. He has a long history for rallying the troops stemming from his days at the University of Toledo when he became the first person of color to be the President of Student Government. Upon graduation he headed to Washington, DC and was the National Director for the NAACPs Youth and College Division, and then was later tapped by Russell Simmons to be the Vice President for the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network. Jeff’s work in the political arena began to gain momentum, which caught the eye of an executive at BET who felt his breadth of knowledge in cultural affairs and politics would work best for their show Rap City. Jeff played host Tiggers conscious Cousin Jeff, and for the past two-years gave audiences a dose of reality. And his popularity has proved that his words do not fall on deaf ears. Wanting to get mileage out of the progress that was created on Rap City, BET introduced The Cousin Jeff Chronicles, a series of true-life documentaries that deal with current and pertinent issues facing urban communities. It became clear to me when I began this work that I needed to provide a voice of truth and honesty - transparency within the political process, especially for young people who may have a hard time deciphering that process and knowing their options, states Jeff. Jeffs commitment to fostering communication between the civil rights and hip-hop generations has been successful as he tours the country speaking at universities, faith-based organizations and churches while conducting countless leadership training sessions in local communities. As a voice for social change, Jeff is passionate about this work. He has put a spotlight on grassroots activism making these issues relevant to a wide variety of audiences throughout the country. The time is now states Jeff. Once individuals are armed with the political information needed to foster change within their communities, it will allow them to foster change within themselves.
Willie Jolley Willie Jolley is “America’s Premier Celebrity Speaker – Singer – Author… Inspiring Millions with Music & Motivation!” He is an award winning speaker, a world-class singer, and a best selling author and media personality all in one person! He specializes in Accelerating Success and Growing Businesses by Growing People, Performance and Profits. Willie Jolley was recently inducted into the Speakers Hall of Fame, a lifetime award for speaking excellence and professionalism. He joined luminaries like Ronald Reagan, Zig Ziglar, Harvey McKay and Les Brown. And in 1999, Willie Jolley was named “One of the Outstanding Five Speakers in the World” by Toastmasters International. Less than 50 speakers worldwide have been bestowed that honor! Former winners include Christopher Reeve, Margaret Thatcher and Colin Powell! In 2003, the McDonald’s Corporation named him “A Black History Maker of Today!” Willie Jolley is a Five Time Washington Area Music Association (WAMMIE) Award Winning singer for “Best Jazz Singer” and “Best Entertainer”. His new ‘Jolley’ music is now the number one downloaded Motivational Music on the Apple I- Tunes site! Willie Jolley is the author of two international best selling books, “It Only Takes A Minute To Change Your Life!” and “A Setback Is A Setup For A Comeback.” His books have been translated into eight languages. As a co-author of “Go M.A.D. (Go Make A Difference),” a best selling book for youth - teaching life skills and encouraging academic excellence - his message is spreading around the world! And Chicken Soup For The Christian Soul - II features Willie Jolley along with Joyce Meyers, Tony Campolo and Naomi Rhode! As host of the syndicated radio show “The Willie Jolley Motivational Minute,” Willie Jolley is heard daily in over 50 markets, on the ABC Rejoice Radio Network, The Radio One Praise Network; and on WHUR-FM in Washington, DC. Plus, he writes a column that is syndicated by the National News Press Association and read by over 6 million readers via the internet with the Electronic Urban Report. He’s seen on television with his PBS ground breaking special for teens “Dare 2 Dream, Dare 2 Win” and as a spokesperson for Mercedes Benz and the District of Columbia Government Community Outreach Programs. Willie Jolley is a graduate of The American University and Wesley Theological Seminary. His mission in life is to help people maximize their God given talents and abilities so they can Do More, Be More and Achieve More!
Rashida Jolley Rashida Jolley, Miss District of Columbia 2000, utilizes both music and powerful storytelling to communicate the benefits of making the right choices in life. Rashida was raised in Washington DC, the product of a great family-line of musicians and motivational speakers. She has a very diverse background speaking and performing at Juvenile Detention Centers, High school and Middle School assemblies, National Embassies, and The United States Congress. Rashida has appeared on MTV and BET. She has been featured in the Washington Times, US Weekly Magazine, Washington Post, and Eagle Forum. She was the youngest member appointed by the President to the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. Rashida has partnered with, and served, numerous community and health organizations around the country including Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families, Florida Department of Health, Arkansas Department of Health, Congressional Black Caucus, Best Friends for Girls Foundation, National Abstinence Clearinghouse, and Project Reality. Rashida combines her vast knowledge of pop culture with entertaining renditions of Top-40 music to expose the lies of our media-saturated times. Her presentation includes her personal experience of making a decision at a young age to remain sexually abstinent until marriage, STD Statistics, media influences, and lifestyle tips for healthy relationships.
Star Jones Star Jones, a lawyer and former prosecutor, is known to television viewers for her candor, confidence and uncanny ability to clarify muddy legal and social issues. Her knowledge of the law and talent for television has won her critical acclaim as a news and legal correspondent. She debuted on television in 1991 when she started moonlighting as a studio commentator for Court TV during the William Kennedy Smith rape trial. She was quickly lined up as a guest on "Today," and a few months later she became the NBC legal correspondent for "Today" and "NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw," covering the latest developments in the Mike Tyson rape case and the Rodney King police brutality trial. She landed an exclusive interview with Tyson after the imprisoned ex-heavyweight champion had dodged the press for a year, and an exclusive interview with King after the sentencing of the two Los Angeles cops convicted of violating his civil rights. That success led to her own syndicated show, "Jones & Jury." With the 1997 launch of ABC's "The View," Star expanded her point of view to include commentary on the law, self-esteem, race, family, education, religion, the media and other social issues relating to the community at large. "The View" has earned Emmy nominations for Outstanding Daytime Talk Show and, for Star and her co-hosts, Outstanding Talk Show Host. Star is heavily involved with numerous philanthropic organizations, is a frequent contributor to several charitable foundations, and serves on the Board of Directors of Dress for Success, the East Harlem School at Exodus House, and God's Love We Deliver. In 2000, she joined the efforts of Girls Inc. for a national self-image building campaign aimed at young women. She was also elected to the organization's national board of directors.
Vernon Jordan A prominent attorney, political advisor to President Bill Clinton and the former president of the National Urban League. Vernon Jordan has devoted the major part of his life to the civil rights movement and he continues to speak out on vital national issues.
Donna Richardson Joyner Richardson Joyner is today's vibrant trailblazing pioneer for health and fitness, who has enjoyed enormous success in the workout video world. Widely known for her series of twenty five award-winning fitness videos, most notably the wildly popular "Sweating In The Spirit," and "Buns Of Steel," Richardson Joyner (wife of popular syndicated radio personality, the "Fly Jock," Tom Joyner), is a lively, gorgeous advocate for health, vitality and fitness. She's the ultimate, fit example of inner beauty combined with outer beauty and she's ushering in a new paradigm of fitness in America. A mover and a shaper with infectious spirit and energy, the Silver Springs, MD native created and produced her videos to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle among Americans. Her "Sweating In The Spirit" video, which combines spirituality with health, is the #1 gospel exercise video in the country, featuring live performances by gospel greats Kirk Franklin, Yolanda Adams and Shirley Murdock. "This is the music that gets your soul stirring," Richardson Joyner says, "you are giving praise to God and taking care of your temple at the same time."
Karl Kani Leading African-American fashion designer who is known as the originator of urban fashion in America, Karl Kani has quickly became on e of the most respected and renowned leaders in the fashion industry today. As a designer innovator, entrepreneur and educator, founder of Karl Kani Infinity, he has built an empire that 12 years later has quadrupled in size. In 2001, Kani founded his own record label called Kani Life. Karl has also pioneered an entrepreneurial program that educates children and teaches them how to run their own business.
Maulana Karenga Historian, educator, civil rights leader and author of The African American Holiday of Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family; Community and Culture. In 1966, Dr. Karenga introduced Kwanzaa ("first fruits" in Swahili) to the U.S. It is a non religious cultural observance celebrated by millions of African Americans.
Bob Kersee Famous track coach, husband of Jackie Joyner Kersee and the coach of Gail Devers.
Dr. Molefi Kete Asante Dr. Molefi Kete Asante is Professor, Department of African American Studies at Temple University. Considered by his peers to be one of the most distinguished contemporary scholars, Asante has published 61 books, among the most recent are Encyclopedia of Black Studies, (2004), co-edited with Ama Mazama, Race, Rhetoric, and Identity: The Architecton of Soul, Erasing Racism: The Survival of the American Nation, (2003), Ancient Egyptian Philosophers (2003), Scattered to the Wind, Custom and Culture of Egypt, and 100 Greatest African Americans. The second edition of his high school text, African American History: Journey of Liberation, 2nd Edition, (2001), is used widely throughout North America. He has published more scholarly books than any contemporary African author and has recently been recognized as one of the ten most widely cited African Americans. In addition, Black Issues in Higher Education recognized him as one of the most influential leaders in the last 15 years. Asante completed his M.A. at Pepperdine and received his Ph.D. from UCLA at the age of 26 and was appointed a full professor at the age of 30 at the State University of New York at Buffalo. At Temple University he created the first Ph.D. Program in African American Studies in 1987. He has directed more than 125 Ph.D. dissertations. He has written more than 300 articles for journals and magazines and is the founder of the theory of Afrocentricity. Asante was born in Valdosta, Ga., one of sixteen children. He is a poet, dramatist, and a painter. His work on African culture and philosophy has been cited by journals such as the Journal of Black Studies, Journal of Communication, American Scholar, Daedalus, Western Journal of Black Studies, and Africaological Perspectives. The Utne Reader called him one of the “100 Leading Thinkers” in America and Asante was recommended in a survey as one of the 25 influential African male leaders of the last two hundred years. In 2001, Transition Magazine said “Asante may be the most important professor in Black America.” He has appeared on Nightline, Nighttalk, BET, Macnell Lehrer News Hour, Today Show, the Tony Brown Show, Night Watch, Like It Is and 60 Minutes. In 2002 he received the distinguished Douglas Ehninger Award for Rhetorical Scholarship from the National Communication Association. The African Union cited him as one of the twelve top scholars of African descent when it invited him to give one of the keynote addresses at the Conference of Intellectuals of Africa and the Diaspora in Dakar in 2004. He was inducted into the Literary Hall of Fame for Writers of African Descent at the Gwendolyn Brooks Center at Chicago State University in 2004. Dr. Asante is the founding editor of the Journal of Black Studies (1969) and was the President of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee chapter at UCLA in the 1960’s. In 1995 he was made a traditional king, Nana Okru Asante Peasah, Kyldomhene of Tafo, Akyem, Ghana. Dr. Asante has been or is presently a consultant for a dozen school districts. An activist scholar, he believes it is not enough to know, one must act to humanize the world.
Alan Keyes Alan Keys former Reagan Administration official, Alan L. Keyes was born in New York, son of a US Army Sergeant. He is recognized as a leader in the Conservative movement and one of today's most demanded orators and television and radio commentators. Author of "Our Character, Our Future and Masters of the Dream," Keyes is currently the Interim President of Alabama A&M University. Keyes also serves as the US Ambassador to the United Nations Social and Economic Council and as the Assistant Secretary of State for International Organizations. As a leader and citizen activist, Keyes was a Republican candidate for President in 1996 and 2000; a twice-Republican nominee to the US Senate for the state of Maryland; former Vice President of the Ronald Reagan Alumni Association; 1992 featured speaker at the Republican National Convention in Houston, Texas; and is currently the newly elected President of the Ronald Reagan Alumni Association. He also served as the former President of Citizens Against Government Waste; Founder of National Taxpayer Action Day; and Founder and Chairman of the Declaration Foundation.
Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch Lieutenant Colonel , U.S. Army (Retired) Highest Ranking Hispanic Woman in U.S. Army’s Combat Support Field; Founder of Educational Achievement Services An Evening with Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch Born and raised in a tiny barrio in Laredo, Texas where she overcame the fierce challenges of poverty, discrimination and illiteracy, Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch grew to become a successful leadership role model for her community. Breaking barriers and setting records in the military, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Consuelo Kickbusch rose to senior officer position and became the highest-ranking Hispanic woman in the Combat Support Field of the United States Army. Acknowledged as a charismatic, passionate and entertaining speaker, Consuelo Kickbusch, carries her powerful message of what it takes to be an effective leader in today’s global marketplace to hundreds of colleges/universities, corporations and government institutions, both here in the U.S. and abroad. During her distinguished military career, Consuelo Kickbusch held a variety of demanding and critical leadership positions ranging from Executive Officer for Information Systems Command to Technical Advisor to the Joint Command and Control Warfare Center to Company Commander of an all-male platoon. Along the way, she has earned numerous illustrious decorations including the Legion of Merit, the National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (four times), the Army Achievement Medal (twice) and the National Image’s Uniformed Services Award for significant contributions in the areas of civil/human rights, race relations, equal opportunity, human resources, and public service. In 1996 LTC (Ret.) Consuelo Kickbusch was selected out of 26,000 candidates to assume a command post, which would put her on track for General Officer rank. Consuelo Kickbusch respectfully declined the honor, retired as a twenty-year veteran and founded Educational Achievement Services Inc. (EAS) to realize her personal dream and mission of preparing tomorrow’s leaders today. Through EAS, she shares her years of leadership experience, success techniques and motivational messages to empower people of all ages in all environments (schools, corporations, government and non-profits). Consuelo Kickbusch’s results-oriented seminars/workshops use real life case studies, successful leadership behaviors and guiding principals and role-playing situations, to provide a dynamic and interactive learning environment. As a result, participants develop leadership skills, the ability to become change agents and achieve optimum performance. She also helps them to examine the role and value-added that our diverse cultures and backgrounds bring to leadership development. Because of her strong dedication to saving the youth of America living in the same barrios she did as a child, Consuelo Kickbusch has worked with over one million children, their parents and educators, in the roughest neighborhoods in America, covering 43 states. She inspires these young “diamonds in the rough” by encouraging them to believe that “we can all make our dreams come true, to not give up hope, but rather to take charge of your lives, make a real difference in your families/communities and follow a disciplined road map to success”. To assist them, she produced a well-received video entitled, “Porque No – Why Not?”which provides practical techniques that helped Consuelo Kickbusch leave the barrio, develop self-esteem and achieve her personal success. Currently, she is writing a book for young readers, Journey to the Future, a primer providing young people with a framework for early leadership development. In recognition of her organization’s success, accomplishments and citizenship, Consuelo Kickbusch has been honored by the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with the 2002 Business Achievement Award.
Kwame Kilpatrick Since taking office in 2002 as the youngest mayor of any major U.S. city, Kwame M. Kilpatrick has led tremendous growth in the city of Detroit including the biggest housing and commercial construction boom in 50 years, the largest road and infrastructure improvement program in decades, and a $2-billion overhaul of Detroit’s riverfront. After decades of decline, Detroit is experiencing a revival thanks to Mayor Kilpatrick’s leadership that has been recognized by media including the New York Times, USA Today, the Los Angeles Times, and the Financial Times of London.
Dennis Kimbro Entrepreneur, business consultant and best-selling author of Think and Grow Rich: A Black Choice, Daily Motivations for African-American Success and his newest book, What Makes the Great Great, Dennis Kimbro has written extensively on African American entrepreneurship and success. A PBS special entitled "The Legacy of Achievement with Dr. Dennis Kimbro" was recently aired on Public Broadcasting Systems (PBS). He has appeared on numerous television programs including "Today" on NBC and "Larry King Live" and has been featured in many magazines and newspapers such as Success, Black Enterprise, Essence, The New York Times and USA Today. Dr. Dennis Kimbro combines his vast knowledge of business, contemporary affairs and the vibrant nature of Black America in a motivational and practical lecture on the secrets of success.
Gayle King Gayle King is a popular television personality who regularly appears on The Oprah Winfrey Show. She has been the Editor-at-Large for O, The Oprah Magazine since its inception in 1999 and for O at Home since its inception in 2003, acting as a liaison between the publications' Founder and Editorial Director Oprah Winfrey and the magazines' staffs. She also consults on the editorial and creative direction for the publications.
Rev. Bernice King Rev. Bernice King Ordained Minister and Daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. As a nationally renowned orator, Bernice A. King has inherited the gift of oratory and ecumenical power that her father was famous for, and has inspired thousands of people from all walks of life. In 1980, at age 17, she spoke in her mother's stead to the United Nations on Apartheid, and discovered her oratorical gift. The youngest child of Mrs. Coretta Scott King and the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Bernice is remembered by most as the five year-old in the Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph taken of her as she lay in her mother's lap during her father's funeral.
Martin King, III Son of the late civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. he is the president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Martin Luther King, III is founder of the civil rights organization, American United for Affirmative Action.
Maxine Hong Kingston Maxine Hong Kingston is a highly acclaimed writer of both fiction and nonfiction and one of the first Asian Americans to make it to the top of the literary world in America. Her first book, a memoir published in 1976 called The Women Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts, won the National Book Critic's Circle Award and made her a literary celebrity. Kingston latest publication is an anthology of stories and poems by 80 veterans titled Veterans of War, Veterans of Peace, which she edited. The anthology won the Northern California Book Critics Award. China Men, a sequel to The Women Warrior, was published in 1980 and received the National Book Award and was runner-up for the Pulitzer Prize. In 1989 Kingston published her first novel, Tripmaster Monkey: His Fake Book which won the PEN Fiction Award. Kingston has also written Hawaii One Summer and helped edit the book Literature of California. Her recent works include To be the Poet, and The Fifth Book of Peace, which was nominated for The Dublin Literary Award. Kingston graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in 1962 and returned a year later for a teaching certificate. In the early 1980s, she received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Guggenheim Foundation. She has been honored with the American Academy and Institute Award in Literature, California Governor's Award in the Arts, Hawaii Award for Literature, California Arts Commission Award and the Anisfield Wolf Book Award. Kingston was recognized as a "Living Treasure of Hawaii" in 1980. Kingston's writing is often cited for its melodiousness and poetry - its exploration of myth, legend, history and autobiography combines to create a genre all to its own. Fearlessly creative and relentlessly brilliant, she shares worlds where imagination and reality collide, and truth is revealed. Kingston was awarded the National Humanities Medal from President Clinton. She currently teaches at her alma mater, University of California at Berkeley.
John Kline John Kline hadn't thought about Ruben Bolen in decades. Back in the1950s, slots in the NBA had been precious for black ballplayers --one or two per team and that was it. Instead Kline and Bolen traveled the world together as Harlem Globetrotters. When things got tough, Kline depended on Bolen to back him up. Then one day in 1995, Kline read a painful newspaper item: Ruben Bolen was dead. Bolen, 61, had died homeless, stabbed to death in a parking lot in San Francisco. It hurt Kline, and it made him think: What was happening to guys like Bolen, talented black men who'd played the pro game when it was rough and tumble . . . and racist? Most of them earned little playing for the Globetrotters, the New York Renaissance, the Washington Bears, and other barnstorming squads that endured endless road trips and unyielding Jim Crow laws. Even those who made the NBA after integration began in 1950 were forced to be role players, concentrating on rebounding and defense. Black pros didn't get a chance to showcase their talents in the league until the arrival of Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain. Kline, who worked as a school administrator in Detroit after his playing days, decided he wanted to do something for the heroes of that forgotten era. In 1996, Kline founded the Black Legends of Professional Basketball Foundation to honor black pros who played prior to 1960. Some of the still-living legends he's contacted date their playing careers as far back as the 1930s. Kline wants to make sure these men finally get their due -- in much the same way that Negro League baseball players have finally begun to get recognition for their talents and sacrifices. Kline led the successful campaign to get former Globetrotter Marques Haynes elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Black Legends has also sponsored two well-attended gatherings of players in Detroit, and plans another there on Feb. 23-24, 2001. Kline also has plans for a TV documentary.
J. Jorge Klor de Alva An authority on multicultural education and the president and CEO of Apollo International Inc., Dr. Jorge Klor de Alva founded the company when he was President of the University of Phoenix. Apollo International provides affordable accredited education programs to students outside the United States. A frequent lecturer on the subject of multicultural education, Dr. de Alva co-developed the Latino Heritage curriculum for the New York State education department.
Mychael Knight Mychael Knight a fashion designer. He was a contestant on the third season of the Bravo network reality television series Project Runway, where he came in fourth place. Knight holds a Bachelors degree for apparel design and merchandising from Georgia Southern University. The Atlanta-based designer has increased his fan base by creating a line of custom tees for Starbucks and designed a one of kind dress for Malia on Episode 45 of MTVs My Super Sweet 16. He appeared on the BET show Rip the Runway in March of 2007 where he introduced a line of clothing. Knight used part of his $10,000 fan favorite winnings to help launch his unisex fragrance, MajK. His newest fashion endeavor I like Kitty & Dick, a line of racy lingerie debuted in January 2008.
Black Knights The Black Knights Drum Corps was formed in the spring of 1989 by Director Pete Ellison and Assistant Director Russell Kingman.The Corps has performed on the “Kevin & Bean” (KROQ Radio) Show, the set of the “American Gladiators” T.V. show, on the stages at Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studio’s City Walk, as well as fundraising events such as Juvinile Diabetes “Walk for the cure” and Macy’s Passport, and has represented the City of Burbank as their “Official Musical Ambassadors” at events throughout the United States and Canada since 1994.The Corps enjoys world-wide popularity amongst it’s fan base and has students throughout the United States and other parts of the globe audition for Cast positions each year.The Corps offers performance opportunities for young adults ages 14 to 22.The Corps is a founding member of the Southern California Percussion Alliance.
Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu Renowned educator and writer, Jawanza Kunjufu is the co-author of the Afrocentric Multicultural Curriculum and author of several books including: Developing Positive Self Images and Discipline in Black Children; Motivating and Preparing Black Youth to Work; Lessons From History; A Celebration in Blackness; To Be Popular or Smart; The Black Peer Group; Critical Issues in Educating African American Youth; and Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys.
Yul Kwon Kwon won the 13th season of the reality TV show Survivor, which was set in the Cook Islands, in 2006. In a talk at the Law School, Kwon spoke about how starring in Survivor was an opportunity for him to change Americans preconceptions about Asians. “I went on the show to present a positive image of the Asian American man, he said. “I wanted to change stereotypes. In his talk, Kwon delved into stories from his childhood growing up in a South Korean immigrant family, when he would watch television while distractedly aware of the absence of Asian American role models. Asian men were portrayed as caricatures, he said, as either Kung-fu masters who could not speak English or computer nerds who could not find a date. Kwon said he saw himself in the latter category. Kwon now works for CNN, covering political news in the broader context of youth and people of color.
Joyce Ladner Internationally known scholar, sociologist, educator and the first woman to serve as president of Howard University, the institution preeminent among African American colleges and universities.
Mona Lake Jones Poet and educator Mona Lake Jones (known to many as Grandhoney.) Jones first poem was published in Essence magazine in 1990 and that led her to write The Color of Culture, now in its seventh printing, and two sequels, The Color of Culture II and The Color of Culture III. She also authored Unleashing the Power of a Sister. Her 1992 poem, "A Roomful of Sisters" was commissioned by 100 Black Women of Boston, a national civic group, and exhibited at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. The poem inspired a painting by Paul Goodnight, a number of conferences and a yearly New York meeting called ARFOS. Jones has served as a poet curator and a poet laureate for the City of Seattle and King County. She is a full-time poet and motivational speaker, spending much of her time on the road, speaking at colleges, conventions and to civic groups about issues of culture and diversity. Jones has appeared on programs with Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Susan Taylor, Maxine Waters, Shirley Chisholm, Myrlie Evers-Williams and Randall Robinson. Jones also composed the lyrics for Vanessa Williams' musical recording of "Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly." Jones has received numerous awards, including the Blackbird Literary Award and the Langston Hughes Award.
Carlotta LaNier In 1957, at age 14, Carlotta Walls LaNier and eight other students integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. This act of courage and defiance became the catalyst for change in the American educational system. The Little Rock Nine, as they would eventually be called, became foot soldiers for freedom. Concerns for family safety and continued employment persuaded the family to move to Denver in 1962. In 1968 Lanier earned a bachelors degree from the University of Northern Colorado and accepted a position at the Denver YWCA. Since then, she has married, raised two children, founded her own real estate company, and worked for 30 years as a real estate broker, currently with Cherry Creek Realtors. In 1997 the Little Rock Nine returned to Central High School for a fortieth anniversary celebration. In a symbolic and emotional gesture, the schools principal, the mayor, the governor, and the President of the United States opened the schools doors, which had been blocked by the Arkansas National Guard in 1957. In 1999 at the White House, members of Congress and the President bestowed upon Lanier and the other member of the Little Rock Nine the nations highest civilian award, the Congressional Gold Medal, for their sacrifice and contribution to the cause of equality.
Kathryn Leary Noted entrepreneur and businesswoman, Kathryn Leary, was featured on the cover of the of Black Enterprise magazine as "The New Face of American Business". Kathryn is President & CEO of The Leary Group Inc., with 30 years of experience in marketing, advertising and cross-cultural communications. Ms. Leary is a consumate professional, a global visionary, and a thought leader for the new millenium.
Spike Lee Spike Lee is one of the world's most talked-about film-makers. Inflammatory rabble-rouser or cinematic visionary? Opinions vary wildly on this film-maker who has been completely unafraid of chronicling modern-day America. Over the past fifteen years, only Oliver Stone has matched Spike Lee's politically explosive cinema, and controversy is never far away when a Lee film is released.Spike Lee made a name for himself in 1986 with the hit independent film She's Gotta Have It, a frank comedy about the many lovers of an independent Brooklyn woman. The film established Lee's as a rising young black filmmaker, a rarity at the time, and his skills and independence, along with his outspoken African-American perspective and feisty public persona, kept him in the public eye throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In later films he continued to tell stories with racial themes and New York settings, including the Brooklyn drama Do the Right Thing (1989), the jazz-tinged Mo' Better Blues (1990, with Denzel Washington and Wesley Snipes), the interracial romance Jungle Fever (1993, with Snipes and Anabella Sciorra), the biopic Malcolm X (1992, starring Washington and based in part on the book by Malcolm X and Alex Haley), Summer of Sam (1999, with John Leguizamo) and controversial racial satire Bamboozled (2000). His most recent films are The 25th Hour, starring Ed Norton (2002), and She Hate Me (2004).
John Legend Neo-soul singer and pianist John Legend combined the raw fervor of contemporaries Cody ChesnuTT and the burning precision of D'Angelo. Born John Stephens, Legend was a child prodigy who grew up in Ohio, where he began singing gospel and playing piano at the tender age of five. Legend left Ohio at 16 to go to college in Philadelphia, and it was there that he first found a larger audience. Not yet out of his teens, Legend was tapped to play piano on Lauryn Hill's "Everything Is Everything" in 1998. After completing college, he moved to New York, where he began to build a loyal following playing in nightclubs and releasing CDs that he would sell at shows. He also became an in-demand session musician, playing and occasionally writing for a wide array of artists, including Alicia Keys, Twista, Janet Jackson, and Kanye West. It wasn't until West signed the young talent to his new label that he adopted the Legend name with 2004's Solo Sessions Vol. 1: Live at the Knitting Factory. Get Lifted, his first studio album, was released later in the year.
Edward Lewis A prominent African American businessman, Edward Lewis is the publisher of Essence magazine and Chief Executive Officer of Essence Communications, Inc.
Dawnn Lewis Popular actress, composer and motivational speaker, Dawnn Lewis starred in such television series as "A Different World"; "Hanging With Mr. Cooper." Dawnn was first known as Jaleesa Vinson on "A Different World", then as Robin on "Hanging With Mr. Cooper" and HBO's "Dream On." Her movie fans remember her from Keenan Ivory Wayan's "I'm Gonna Get You Sucka" and "Race to Freedom". Dawnn will appear in a special week long segment of A Different World called the Hillman College Reunion airing on Nick At Nite, along with Lisa Bonet, Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Darryl M. Bell, Cree Summer, and Sinbad. She is scheduled to play Deloris Van Cartier in Peter Schnieder's musical version of Sister Act, due to open at the Pasadena Playhouse on October 24, 2006.
Ananda Lewis Award-Winning Host of “The Ananda Lewis Show” A combination of deep compassion, true intelligence, striking beauty and a big mouth has helped award winning television host Ananda Lewis reach new heights. Her talents have garnered a wealth of achievements, yet she has only just begun! Ananda, Sanskrit for "bliss", has been touching lives on and off screen since the age of 13. The San Diego, California native was a Head Start volunteer while a student at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts. For nine years (4th through 12th grades) Ananda studied theater, vocal music, photography, and dance at the prestigious school that she credits with giving her the ability to maintain a free spirit and cultivate her confidence. "The teachers I had at SDSCPA and the supportive, nurturing environment of the campus in general are probably the #1 reason I am seeing success now," she says. After graduating from high school, Ananda left San Diego to attend Howard University in Washington, D.C. For three seasons Ananda served as Host of BET’s Teen Summit, one of the station’s top rated shows which reached 42 million household’s LIVE each week. Her gift for affecting the lives of young people beamed out at us through the screen and her natural and obviously genuine relationship with co-host DaJour, had a lot of us thinking they were siblings. "Everybody would ask if Dajour, was my brother. I guess in a way he was - through talking about our lives, families and how to improve ourselves and our show." The teamwork obviously served them well. Teen Summit’s "It Takes a Village" show earned them a 1997 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Youth Series in large part because of Ananda’s interview with Hillary Rodham-Clinton. Teen Summit was also nominated for 1996 Cable Ace Award for its special on "homeless teens". During the summer of 1997, Ananda faced another life-changing decision when an opportunity at another television network arose. MTV had come knocking and Ananda was not sure about opening the door. "Up until that time I had been doing a show that meant great deal to not only me, but our viewers and the continued progress and healing of everyone it touched. I knew that I would not readily have access to doing a show like this again for a very long time and I had a real problem with that. For years it had been clear to me that I came to this planet to impact people’s lives, change things and help people heal by increasing their personal power and rejecting the lies we’ve all been taught since birth about ourselves and our potential. Yet I understood that in order to do that effectively, I would need the attention of the masses, not just my own people. I saw MTV not only as access to the masses, but also as an opportunity to be more of the woman I am and cultivate my ability to have fun, my social skills and whatever else the Creator had in store for me with this new opportunity."
Helena D. Lewis A poetic powerhouse, HELENA D. LEWIS is a passionate performer gifted with keen insight. Lewis graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelors in Biology and is a former member of the poetic trio, 2 Dogs & A Cat, Nubian Expressions, Uninhibited Theater Company, and the undefeated New Jersey First Wave Slam Team. Lewis was a member of the Nuyorican Poets Café 2000 National Slam Team which placed third at the National Poetry Slam in Providence, Rhode Island. Lewis, a Soul Café 2001 finalist, and Hottest Poets MTV Networks 2002 finalist was featured on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam III.
Marvin Lewis Marvin Lewis born September 23, 1958 in McDonald, Pennsylvania) is the head coach of the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals franchise, a position he has held since since January, 2003. Lewis is credited as being instrumental in the Bengals' improvement. Before his arrival, the team had experienced just one non-losing season in fifteen previous seasons. Indeed, he is the only coach in team history to not have a losing record. He grew up in suburban Pittsburgh and attended Fort Cherry High School. He was a notable quarterback and safety. After graduating high school, Marvin Lewis attended the Division I-AA Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho. On the Idaho State football team, he played linebacker as well as quarterback and free safety. In a coincidence foreshadowing his future role in the National Football League, Idaho State's athletic teams are known as the Bengals. Lewis earned All-Big Sky Conference honors as a linebacker in 1978, 1979 and 1980. After not being drafted in the NFL, Lewis decided to become the ISU Bengals' linebacker coach rather than attempt to sign with a team as a non-drafted player. Academically, Lewis earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education in 1981 and a Master of Physical Education degree in athletic administration in 1982. He was inducted into the Idaho State University Sports Hall of Fame in 2001. In 1984 Lewis left Idaho State and became linebacker coach at Long Beach State University. He later held coaching positions at the University of New Mexico and the University of Pittsburgh. In 1992, Marvin Lewis was hired by the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers as linebackers coach. It was his first job in the professional ranks, and Lewis was with the organization until he was hired as the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens in 1996. In 2000, the Ravens won the Super Bowl, defeating the New York Giants 34-7. His defensive squad, led by Pro Bowl linebacker Ray Lewis (no relation) set several NFL regular season records, including recording four shutouts, allowing the fewest rushing yards (970) and the fewest points (165) in a 16-game season. Lewis' reputation as a defensive genius and a rising star among the ranks of the NFL's assistant coaches was solidified by the dominating performance of the Ravens. In 2002, Lewis was hired as the Washington Redskins' defensive coordinator and was with the team one year. In 2003, Lewis was hired as head coach by the Cincinnati Bengals, a beleaguered franchise that had not made the playoffs or recorded a winning record since the 1990 season and had a 2-14 record the previous season, the worst performance in team history. Moreover, Cincinnati was viewed by many as the Siberia of the NFL and was beset by legal problems over their new facility, Paul Brown Stadium, and the Bengals' majority owner, Mike Brown, the son of the Bengals' legendary founder and first coach, Paul Brown, was excoriated by the fans for incompetence. The Bengals started Lewis' rookie season 1-4, and it looked like they were heading for yet another miserable year, but they recovered and finished the year with a respectable 8-8 record. One key reason was the re-emergence of veteran quarterback Jon Kitna, the former Seattle Seahawks signalcaller who signed with the Bengals in 2001. Kitna threw for over 3,500 yards, 26 touchdown passes, and won the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year award. However, the consensus opinion among fans and pundits was that Carson Palmer, the Bengals' Heisman Trophy-winning number one draft pick out of USC in 2003 would be the starter in 2004. Palmer did not play a single down in the regular season; Kitna, in fact, took every single snap. That opinion became fact when, before training camp, Palmer was named the #1 quarterback. However, the team was plagued with injuries and difficulty in getting used to a new quarterback. Once again the team started the season with a 1-4 record. Lewis' choice to start Palmer seemed like it might have been a bad one, but, as they had done the previous season, the Bengals recovered and finished the season with an identical 8-8 record. In 2005, the Bengals won the AFC North division with an 11-5 record, ending a league-high fifteen-year streak of futility. Palmer led the NFL in completion percentage, threw for 3,836 yards, set a franchise record with 32 touchdown passes, and made the Pro Bowl. Running back Rudi Johnson and receiver Chad Johnson set new team marks in rushing and reception yardage, respectively. However, in the 2005 AFC Wild Card game against the rival Pittsburgh Steelers on January 8, 2005, Palmer suffered a devastating knee injury on the second offensive play: a 66-yard strike to receiver Chris Henry, who suffered a comparatively minor knee injury himself on the play. Kitna replaced Palmer, but the Bengals were unable to contain the Steelers, who won 31-17 and eventually won Super Bowl XL. Currently, Lewis is one of seven black head coaches in the National Football League. The others are Art Shell (Oakland Raiders), Romeo Crennel (Cleveland Browns), Tony Dungy (Indianapolis Colts), Herman Edwards (Kansas City Chiefs), Dennis Green (Arizona Cardinals), and Lovie Smith (Chicago Bears). Since August, 2002, Marvin Lewis has also been affectionately referred to as "Black Jesus" by Bengals players and fans. "No sacrilege intended, but he is resurrecting this franchise," said former Bengal and present New England Patriots cornerback Artrell Hawkins in 2003. This name has garnered some national recognition and ESPN The Magazine in a January, 2005 article by writer Tom Friend even referred to him, not by his given name, but as "Black Jesus". In that same article, former Bengals running back Corey Dillon said, "You've got your Black Jesus, I'm your Judas, why hold me hostage? Set me free." However, Lewis has been quick to deflect any such praise. Lewis is married to Peggy Lewis and has two children, Whitney and Marcus.
Rae Lewis-Thornton Rae Lewis-Thornton was diagnosed HIV Positive in 1986 at the age of 23, and today has AIDS. She uses her life as an example that AIDS is a non-discriminatory disease, challenging the common myths and stereotypes surrounding who can become infected with the HIV virus, and how the virus is transmitted. Featured in Essence magazine as well as the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, the "Oprah Winfrey Show," "Nightline" and on several national television documentaries, Lewis-Thornton is a political science master's candidate and is currently enrolled in a master's in divinity program. She is on a crusade to educate and challenge young and old audiences to take care of their bodies, futures and health.
Fang Lizhi One of China's most prominent dissident and intellectual, Fang Lizhi was allowed to leave China more than a year after taking refuge in the United States Embassy in Beijing the day after the Communist leaders sent troops into Tiananmen Square. Fang Lizhi, a physics professor, became a human rights symbol and a thorn in the side of China's government after inspiring pro-democracy student demonstrations.
Dr. James Loewen James Loewen's gripping retelling of American history as it should, and could, be taught, Lies My Teacher Told Me, has sold more than 800,000 copies and continues to inspire K-16 teachers to get students to challenge, rather than memorize, their textbooks. Jim Loewen taught race relations for twenty years at the University of Vermont. Previously he taught at predominantly black Tougaloo College in Mississippi. He now lives in Washington, D.C., continuing his research on how Americans remember their past. Lies Across America: What Our Historic Sites Get Wrong came out in 1999. The Gustavus Myers Foundation named his new book, Sundown Towns, a "Distinguished Book of 2005." His other books include Mississippi: Conflict and Change (co authored), which won the Lillian Smith Award for Best Southern Nonfiction but was rejected for public school text use by the State of Mississippi, leading to the path breaking First Amendment lawsuit, Loewen et al. v. Turnipseed, et al. He also wrote The Mississippi Chinese: Between Black and White, Social Science in the Courtroom, and The Truth About Columbus. He has been an expert witness in more than 50 civil rights, voting rights, and employment cases. His awards include the First Annual Spivack Award of the American Sociological Association for "sociological research applied to the field of intergroup relations," the American Book Award (for Lies My Teacher Told Me), and the Oliver Cromwell Cox Award for Distinguished Anti-Racist Scholarship. He is also Distinguished Lecturer for the Organization of American Historians.
Gina Loring With a rich, soulful voice, thought provoking lyrics, and a powerful stage presence, Gina Loring is in a league of her own. The top ranking female poet at the 2002 National Poetry Slam, she was featured on two seasons of HBOs Russell Simmons Def Poetry. Following several showcases produced by Norman Lear, she was hired as a writer/ performer on the "Declare Yourself" tour. In conjunction with Diddys "Vote or Die" campaign and Rock the Vote, Gina helped to register thousands of young voters. She was also a featured vocalist/songwriter on the Brand New Heavies new album "We Won't Stop" and has been mentored by such artists as Randy Jackson and Marla Gibbs. With musical influences ranging from classic Hip Hop to Nina Simone, her highly reflective lyrics demonstrate her ability to reveal the intimate. Encompassing such subjects as love, spirituality and social activism, her work is raw and passionate, yet always presented with the grace that seems inherent in this young woman's spirit.
Ronnie Lott A punishing defensive back in the 1980s and 90s, Ronnie Lott won four Super Bowl rings with the San Francisco 49ers and earned 10 Pro Bowl appearances during his 14-year NFL career. He was named to the leagues 75th anniversary team in 1994 and elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Today, Lott continues to make an impact off the field. In 1989, he founded All Stars Helping Kids, a philanthropic organization that leverages the names, efforts and resources of other initiatives for disadvantaged children. He also is the chairman of Play It Smart, the National Football Foundation program that seeks to improve the learning environment and build leadership skills for high school student athletes. In 1999, he co-founded HRJ Capital, a private-equity firm that manages almost $2 billion in assets.athletes, corporate leaders and individual donors to promote and foster educational and health initiatives for disadvantaged children. He also is the chairman of Play It Smart, the National Football Foundation program that seeks to improve the learning environment and build leadership skills for high school student athletes. In 1999, he co-founded HRJ Capital, a private-equity firm that manages almost $2 billion in assets. Biography Ronnie Lott, an All-American from Southern California, was the San Francisco 49ers' first round draft pick and the eighth player chosen overall in the 1981 National Football League Draft. The 6-0, 203-pound defensive back made an immediate impression and was named the starting left cornerback from his first day in training camp. In his first NFL season, Lott led a young secondary that helped the 49ers to win Super Bowl XVI. He became the second rookie in NFL history to return three interceptions for touchdowns. His outstanding play resulted in his finishing second for Rookie of the Year honors. Known for his hard-hitting style, Lott was used at both left and right cornerback positions and as a free and strong safety during his 14-year career. The versatile defensive back earned 10 Pro Bowl invitations at three different positions - cornerback, free safety, and strong safety. It was, however, at free safety, where he had the freedom to cover the whole field, that he may have been most effective. In 1986, he played 14 games at the free safety position before an injury sidelined him for the final two games of the season. Still, he led the league with a career-most 10 interceptions, recorded 77 tackles, three forced fumbles and two quarterback sacks. It was perhaps his finest season. During his career with the 49ers (1981-90), Los Angeles Raiders (1991-92), and the New York Jets (1993-94) Lott recorded 63 career interceptions and twice led the league. A complete player, he surpassed the 1,000-career tackle mark in 1993, and had five seasons of at least 100 tackles. In his ten seasons with the 49ers, San Francisco won eight NFC Western Division titles and four Super Bowls. In 20 playoff contests (all starts), he recorded nine interceptions, 89 tackles, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and two touchdowns. It has been said that Lott had the uncanny ability of being able to sense the direction a play was about to take and then somehow disrupt it. "He's like a middle linebacker playing safety," Hall of Fame coach Tom Landry once remarked. "He's devastating. He may dominate the secondary better than anyone I've seen." Named All-Pro eight times, All-NFC six times, and All-AFC once, Lott was also selected to play in 10 Pro Bowls and was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary Team. He was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
Henry Louis Gates Jr. One of the United States most influential cultural critics, Henry Louis Gates Jr. is both an eloquent commentator and formidable intellectual force on multicultural and African American issues. He is widely acknowledged for taking African American studies beyond the ideological bent of the 1970s and 80s black power movement, and bringing it into a scholarly sphere that is the equivalent to all other disciplines. He is currently the W. E. B. Du Bois Professor of the Humanities and the director of the W. E. B. Du Bois Institute for African and African American Studies at Harvard University. In 1997, Gates was named one of Time magazines 25 most influential Americans. He is a prolific writer who has authored, co authored, edited, or co edited several books and written numerous articles. His books include Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Black Man and The Future of the Race with co author and Princeton professor Cornell West. His articles have appeared in The New Yorker, Time, The New Republic, and The New York Times. Gates is also the editor of Transition magazine, an international review of African, Carribean, and African American politics. In 2006, he wrote and produced the PBS documentary African American Lives, the first documentary series to employ genealogy and science to provide an understanding of African American history. His current projects include a sequel to African American Lives, as well as a documentary titled Finding Oprah’s Roots, where he expands on one of the most popular individuals featured in African American Lives. Gates honors and grants include a MacArthur Foundation genius grant and the George Polk Award for Social Commentary, a national humanities medal. Gates has also received more than 40 honorary degrees.
Mother Love Former host of the television show "Forgive or Forget", Mother Love is an accomplished author, actress and radio personality and motivational speaker.
Dr. Ruth Love Prominent African-American educator and an expert on urban education, Ruth Love is the former superintencent of schools in Chicago, Illnois and Oakland, California. She lectures on urban education, African American issues and women's issues. Topics: All Children Can and Must Learn, Closing the Achievement Gap, Civil Rights: This Millenium, The Strengths of Diversity, Women: Climbing Jacob's Ladder and A Womanist View.
Loni Love Just how funny is comedian and actress Loni Love? Ask both Variety and Comedy Central, both of which have named her among their Top 10 Comics to Watch, or Campus Activity magazine, which honored her as its Hot Comic for 2009. Love is not only one of the most hilarious and lovable comics performing stand-up on the comedy club and college circuits but also a busy TV host, guest and actress who has also appeared in films and dramatic plays. Love starred in her own half-hour special for Comedy Central in 2007 and has also been seen on the channel's "Premium Blend," "Weekends at the DL" and "Chocolate News". Her many television appearances include "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn," "The Best Damn Sports Show Period", VH1's "I Love the 70's/80's/90's," "Vh1's The Great Debate" and "Comics Unleashed" among numerous others. Love has enjoyed a recurring role on the Nickelodeon show "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide" as well as guest starring roles on UPN's "Girlfriends" and the CBS sitcom "Worst Week." She was host of the "E! Wildest TV Show Moments" and guest host on "GSN Live,". In 2009 Loni became a CNN correspondent for the show "D.L. Hughley Breaks the News" covering the inauguration of President Barak Obama as well as doing correspondence for the "Dr. Oz Show". Currently Loni is a regular panelist on E!s hit show "Chelsea Lately" and TruTV's "The Smoking Gun Presents: The World's Dumbest". Loni taped her first one hour special for Comedy Central " America's Sister" set to premiere 2010. Loni's first love is performing for live audiences. She puts it quite simply "I love to make people laugh!"
Brad Lowery Brad Lowery has long been a favorite at Colleges and Universities across the country. He averages over 200 College performances per year and was nominated for Comedian of the Year 4 times in a row. He's been seen on A & E 's Caroline's Comedy Hour, Star Search and twice on NBC's Showtime at the Apollo. He's opened for acts such as Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and Tommy Davidson. This past year he's been doing the audience warm up for The Queen Latifah Show on Fox and can be seen on the Fox Television special entitled Comedy Flava which first aired in November. Brad currently resides in the New York City area and has a black belt in karate. Lowery also has opened for comedians Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, and Tommy Davidson.
Chief Ronnie Lupe Charismatic chief and tribal chairman of the Apache Tribe.
MC Lyte Renowned hip-hop artist and actress MC Lyte is a legendary rap artist. MC Lyte is the first rap artist ever to perform at Carnegie Hall and the first female rapper to ever receive a gold single, which sold over 500 thousand copies. MC Lyte's inspiring 1993 anthem, the classic Ruffneck was nominated for a Grammy for Best Rap Single, making MC Lyte the first female solo rapper ever nominated for a Grammy. Her newest project Undaground Heat vol.1, Hosted by Jamie Foxx, has garnered this rap legend her 2nd Career Grammy nomination, 10 years later, for Best Solo Female Rap Performance, for her single "Ride Wit Me", produced by MAAD PHUNK!, on her own label SGI/CMM/BMG. Lyte was also a familiar face in film and television. Her film career included roles in the recent Playa's Ball and in a Trimark/Lions Gate feature release Civil Brand. Lyte has also landed roles in feature films including Extreme Pictures' Train Ride, Cinergi Pictures' Burn Hollywood Burn, Warner Brothers' Fly By Night, and the independent features, Luv Tails and Short Handed.
D. Soyini Madison Noted African American writer and author of The Woman That I Am: Literature and Culture by Contemporary Women of Color, Dr. Madison's presentation focuses upon specific historical and mythological moments in the literature and culture of women of color.
Miriam Makeba Internationally known South African folk singer.
Julianne Malveaux Recognized for her provocative, progressive and insightful observations, Dr. Julianne Malveaux, an economist, author and commentator, is the President and CEO of Last Word Productions, Inc, a multimedia production company. Described by Dr. Cornel West as the most iconoclastic public intellectual in the country, Dr. Malveauxs contributions to the public dialogue on issues such as race, culture, gender, and their economic impacts, are helping to shape public opinion in 21st century America. As a writer and syndicated columnist, her work appears regularly in USA Today, Black Issues in Higher Education, Ms. magazine, Essence magazine, and the Progressive. Her weekly columns appear in numerous newspapers across the country including the Los Angeles Times, the Charlotte Observer, the New Orleans Tribune, the Detroit Free Press, and the San Francisco Examiner. Well-known for appearances on national network programs, Dr. Malveaux is a charismatic and popular guest on a variety of shows. She appears regularly on CNN, BET, as well as on Howard Universitys Television show, Evening Exchange. She has appeared on PBSs To The Contrary, ABCs Politically Incorrect, Fox News Channels OReilly Factor and stations such as C-SPAN, MSNBC and CNBC. She has also hosted talk radio programs in Washington, San Francisco, and New York. In addition to her columns and media appearances, Dr. Malveaux is an accomplished author and editor. Her academic work is included in numerous papers, studies, and publications. She is the editor of Voices of Vision: African American Women on the Issues (1996); the co-editor of Slipping Through the Cracks: The Status of Black Women (1986), and recently co-edited The Paradox of Loyalty: An African American Response to the War on Terrorism (2002). She is the author of two column anthologies: Sex, Lies, and Stereotypes: Perspectives of a Mad Economist (1994), Wall Street, Main Street, and the Side Street: A Mad Economist Takes a Stroll (1999). She is most recently the co-author of Unfinished Business: A Democrat and A Republican Take On the 10 Most Important Issues Women Face (2002). A committed activist and civic leader, Dr. Malveaux serves on the boards of the Economic Policy Institute, Women Building for the Future - Future PAC, and The Recreation Wish List Committee of Washington, DC. Dr. Malveaux received her BA and MA degrees in economics from Boston College, and earned a Ph.D in economics from MIT. A native San Franciscan, she currently resides in Washington, DC.
Method Man Method Man was the first and biggest solo star to emerge from the groundbreaking Wu-Tang Clan. His mush-mouthed, sandpaper-rough bellow (at times recalling EPMD's Erick Sermon) and imaginative rhymes easily made him one of the most recognizable, unpredictable MCs in the group, yet his flow was more deliberate and laid-back than the Wu's resident loose cannon, Ol' Dirty Bastard. On his solo records, Method Man developed a persona that swung from offhand, understated menace to raucous stoner humor. Toward the end of the '90s, his frequent team-ups with Redman produced not only a terrific musical chemistry, but an eventual big-screen comedy team as well. Method Man was born Clifford Smith on April 1, 1971, in Hempsted, Long Island; he split his childhood between his father's Long Island residence and his mother's Staten Island home. It was the latter locale where he met his future Wu-Tang cohorts RZA, Genius/GZA, and Ol' Dirty Bastard; when they set about forming a hip-hop collective in the early '90s, Method Man was one of the first to sign on. Meth was heavily featured on the group's classic late-1993 debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), even getting his own showcase track with "Method Man," which certainly put him out front in terms of name recognition. Thanks to the Wu's innovative contract -- which allowed individual members to sign solo deals with whatever label they chose -- Method Man inked a contract with Def Jam, and in 1994, approximately one year after Enter the Wu-Tang's release, he became the first Wu member to release a solo album with Tical. Highly anticipated, the album entered the charts at number four and quickly went platinum, while singles like "Bring the Pain" (which just missed the pop Top 40) and "Release Yo' Delf" made him an even bigger name in the hip-hop community. He began making numerous guest appearances on other artists' records and in the summer of 1995, his one-off single with Mary J. Blige, "I'll Be There for You/You're All I Need to Get By," soared into the pop Top Five, giving Meth his first major mainstream exposure. Shortly thereafter, another duet -- this time with Def Jam labelmate Redman -- on the compilation track "How High" climbed into the pop Top 20. Wu-Tang Clan reconvened in 1997 for the double-album Wu-Tang Forever, and about a year later, another round of solo projects commenced. Method Man issued his sophomore effort, Tical 2000: Judgement Day (ironically), in late 1998 and took a more expansive approach this time out, filling the album with between-song skits and a variety of guest rappers and producers.
Nelson Mandela Human Rights leader and former President of South Africa.
Makiziwe Mandela Educator and daughter of Nelson Mandela, President of the Republic of South Africa.
Julissa Marquez Julissa is one of three hosts of OH DRAMA!, BET'S popular talk show. OH DRAMA is a provocative, high energy nighttime talk show featuring three dynamic and opinionated ladies. Topics covered are pop culture, health, beauty, relationships, careers, spirituality, etc.
Branford Marsalis Well known jazz musician and former musical director of the "Tonight Show."
Thurgood Marshall, Jr. Thurgood Marshall, Jr. is an American lawyer and son of the late Supreme Court of the United States Justice Thurgood Marshall. Thurgood Marshall Jr. worked in the Clinton White House and is currently a partner at the international law firm Bingham McCutchen, LLP and a principal at its lobbying subsidiary, Bingham Consulting. He is also a member of the Board of Governors of the United States Postal Service and a member of the Board of Trustees of the Ford Foundation. According to documents filed with the SEC, he is a director serving on the board of Corrections Corporation of America, the largest commercial vendor of federal detainment and prisoner transport in the United States
Roland Martin Roland S. Martin is a nationally Award-Winning Journalist and CNN Contributor A nationally syndicated columnist with Creators Syndicate, Mr. Martin is the author of Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith, and Speak, Brother! A Black Man's View of America. Mr. Martin is a commentator for TV One Cable Network also host of "The Roland S. Martin Show" on WVON-AM/1690 in Chicago. He can be heard daily from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. He is also a CNN Contributor, appearing on a variety of shows, including Paula Zahn Now, Anderson Cooper 360, Lou Dobbs Tonight, and many others. In August 2007, he joined Essence Magazine as a special correspondent, writing a bi-monthly column and a daily blog on Essence.com. An insightful and provocative analyst, Mr. Martin has appeared numerous times on MSNBC, FOX News, Court TV, BET Nightly News, BBC News, National Public Radio, The Word Network, America's Black Forum, American Urban Radio Networks, the Tom Joyner Morning Show, and NPR's News and Notes. He is the former executive editor/general manager of the Chicago Defender, the nation's largest Black daily newspaper. He is the former founding news editor for Savoy Magazine under the team of New York-based Vanguarde Media, and the former founding editor of BlackAmericaWeb.com, owned by nationally syndicated radio show host Tom Joyner and Radio One. He previously served as owner/publisher of Dallas-Fort Worth Heritage, a Christian monthly newspaper. He also has worked as managing editor of the Houston Defender and the Dallas Weekly, which he led to a number of local, state and national journalism awards. Mr. Martin has worked as morning drive reporter for KRLD/1080 AM; news director and morning anchor at KKDA-AM in Dallas; city hall reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram; and county government and neighbors reporter for the Austin American-Statesman. He has won more than 20 professional awards for journalistic excellence, including a regional Edward R. Murrow Award from the Radio Television News Directors; several first place awards from the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black Communicators; two citations from the National Associated Press-Managing Editors Conference; the top sports reporting award in 1997 from the National Association of Black Journalists; and honors from the Houston Press Club. Mr. Martin is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the American Society of Newspaper Editors. He is a 1987 graduate of Jack Yates High School-Magnet School of Communications, and a 1991 graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a bachelor's of science degree in journalism. Martin is studying to receive his master's degree in Christian Communications at Louisiana Baptist University.
Hans Massaquoi Retired managing editor of Ebony magazine and author of Destined to Witness, his autobiography, in which he tells what it was like to grow up black in Nazi Germany.
Mark Mathabane Author of the highly acclaimed autobiography, Kaffir Boy, the true story of Black youths coming of age in apartheid South Africa. It is an extraordinary memoir of life under apartheid and a triumph of human spirit over hatred and unspeakable degradation. In his book, African Women: Three Generations, Mark Mathabane shifts his attention from the evils of racism to what may still be the more insidious and intractable problems of sexism as he describes in moving prose the lives of his sister, mother, and grandmother.
Judge Greg Mathis Popular television judge who is featured on the nationally syndicated TV show "Judge Mathis". The youngest judge in Michigan history, Greg Mathis was a Michigan Superior Court Judge before the start of his television series. Mathis worked hard to win the judgeship in the city of Detroit. He had many obstacles to overcome. He had failed the Michigan bar exam once, and had been denied a license to practice law for several years after graduating from law school because of his criminal past. He had not accrued an extensive portfolio of legal work, and he was seen by the establishment as someone who lacked the necessary experience and insight to handle the hectic and heavy docket. Yet in 1995, he was elected a superior court judge for Michigan's 36th District, making him the youngest man in the state to hold the post. During the five years he was on the bench, he was rated in the top five of all judges in the 36th District; there are about thirty judges each year. He was trying to have a movie made about his youth when a partner was contacted by Blackpearl Productions about starting a television show. He has been hosting a television series, Judge Mathis, since 1999, in which he mediates disputes much like a real courtroom. In 2001, Mathis appeared in "1st Annual BET Awards" as himself. He also was a guest star as himself in the Steve Harvey show episode "Here Comes the Judge". Mathis has been parodied on Saturday Night Live by Tracy Morgan in the "Judge Horace" persona. At a rally commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, Mathis said, "They (the Bush administration) all need to be locked up because they are all criminals and they are all thieves. It is indeed criminal to steal an election and within two years run up a federal deficit of half-a-trillion dollars, send our young people over to Iraq to die for an unjust war. What they are doing is criminal."
Marilyn McCoo One of the most successful female recording artists of all time, Marilyn McCoo pursues a multi-dimensional career as a performer, entertainer, and actress. She was a member of the original "Fifth Dimension" and has won seven Grammys and earned fifteen gold records.
Reggie McFadden Well known comedian, entertainer and actor.
Bobby McFerrin Multi-talented bop-pop jazz singer/songwriter Bobby McFerrin has been captivating audiences for two decades, combining his jazz and classical background with a post-modern flare that has drawn the attention of fans and musical peers alike. McFerrin has won praise for his extraordinary vocal appearances, his best-selling recordings and his collaborations with other jazz gurus. The 1980s were full of award winning albums and endeavors by McFerrin. Before his monster success with the 1988 release Simple Pleasures, which featured "Don't Worry, Be Happy," McFerrin had already won two Grammys for Another Night in Tunsia. He also recorded Spontaneous Inventions in 1986, a collaborative effort which featured Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Jon Hendricks and Robin Williams. Around this time, Cosby looked up McFerrin again and asked him to sing the theme song to his hit TV series, "The Cosby Show." The soundtrack to Bertrand Tavernier's "'Round Midnight" became another Grammy-winning enterprise and by 1990, his success as a solo artist and performer was soaring to great heights. 1992 saw two more collaborative releases by McFerrin, including Hush, which featured cellist, Yo-Yo Ma, and Play, which contained noted performances of jazz standards with Chick Corea. The latter won McFerrin his 10th Grammy award. In 1994, McFerrin became the Creative Chairperson to the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra where he developed CONNECT (Chamber Orchestra's Neighborhood Network of Education, Curriculum and Teachers) and established himself as a classical conductor and soloist. He has since led the Chamber Orchestra and the Dale Warland Singers. The Sony release of Paper Moon captured his debut as a conductor and has remained in the Top 10 of Billboard's Classical Charts since its 1995 premier. McFerrin continues his work as an orchestra conductor and has most recently collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony. His innovations in this field have led to debuts with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the London Philharmonic, members of Hamburg's MDR Orchestra and the Israel Philharmonic. His work with the Bang!Zoom jazz quartet was featured on the album of the same name in 1996. McFerrin is currently putting his efforts into composing an opera for the San Francisco Opera. His latest release, Circlesongs, was released in
Rosalyn McMillan Best selling novelist of such books as Knowing, One Better; and Blue Collar Blues. Rosalyn McMillan has become one of our most popular authors chronicling the contemporary African American experience. Ebony magazine named Rosalyn McMillan as one of "The 55 Most Beautiful People of the Year 2000."
Terry McMillan Terry McMillan's first novel, Mama, was published in 1987 by Houghton Mifflin Company and in paperback by Washington Square Press. Mama received a national book award by the Before Columbus Foundation. Ms. McMillan received her B.A. in journalism from the University of California at Berkeley and attended the MFA film program at Columbia University. She has been awarded a 1988 National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship and the Doubleday/Columbia University Literary Fellowship. She has been a guest columnist for The New York Times's "Hers" column and has reviewed books for The New York Times Book Review, The Atlanta Constitution, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. She has been a three time Fellow at Yaddo Artist Colony and the MacDowell Colony.
Russell Means Russell Means has been described as the most famous Indian since Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse. Russell Means has staged several events designed to bring attention to the plight of the American Indians. He conducted a prayer vigil on Mount Rushmore and filed a $9,000,000 lawsuit against the Cleveland Indians baseball team alleg­ing that the team’s nickname defamed American Indians. Means’ most famous act of defiance occurred at Wounded Knee, South Dakota on February 27, 1973 where the takeover revisited the sight of the American Indian massacre at the hands of U.S. soldiers in 1890.
George Mendoza A man of courage and vision, George Mendoza seems invincible. Even though he lost his sight at the age of 15, he has gone on to become a world class runner, Olympic contender and a motivational speaker for the youth and disabled in America. Mr. Mendoza has written a novel, Cup of All Good Things which is the first book in his "The Spirit Man Trilogy and an autobiographical screenplay, "The George Mendoza Story," a one hour docu-drama which was aired on the Public Broadcasting System (PBS)and was hosted and narrated by Academy Awared winner, Robert Duvall. A biography, Running Toward the Light, Mr. Mendoza's life story, will soon be made into a major motion picture.
Billy Mills In 1964, on a arm summer night in Tokyo, Japan American Billy Mills shone brighter than any star in the Oriental sky. Unheralded, unappreciated, virtually unknown to the world, Billy Mills scored one of the greatest upsets in Olympic history, winning the 10,000 meter run with a stunning come-from-behind finish that left the world's best runners in his wake, and the rest of the world in disbelief. In the 100 years of the Games, Mills is the only American ever to win this event. Mills, a Lakota (Sioux) Indian born on the reservation in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, learned early that life doesn't always come easy. It was exactly this harsh realization that brought him to the pinnacle of the athletic world. Mills fought prejudice, jealousy, and scorn to become one of America's best distance runners of his day. Through high school, the University of Kansas, and the Marine Corps, he was often the target of envy and contempt. His ancestry was ridiculed, his integrity questioned, and his talents ignored. But while his detractors made every attempt to strip Billy Mills of his dignity, they could never extinguish the fiery determination in his soul.
Finesse Mitchell In 2003 Finesse Mitchell was asked to be a feature player on NBCs Saturday Night Live. In 2005 he was promoted to cast member. And long before Finesse became a cast member on SNL, he made quite an impact in the world of stand-up comedy. His witty sense of humor, Southern charm and stage presence makes him one of the brightest young stars on the comedy horizon. Finesse was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and is a graduate of the University of Miami. As a former student-athlete who was a walk-on for the University of Miami football team, Finesse played two years with other Hurricane Alumni like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Warren Sapp. Finesse is also a distinguished member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated and admits playing football and performing in college step shows helped foster his ability to feel comfortable performing in the spotlight. Finesse made his first television appearance on B.E.T.s Comic View in 1999 where he instantly became a favorite among the show's loyal followers. Shortly after Comic View Finesse moved to both Los Angeles and New York City where he had several appearances on The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn and two on The Late Show with Conan O'Brien. This sparked high demands from universities, corporate events, and concert promoters all over the U.S. and internationally. And just when things were getting better and better, Finesse was offered his very own Comedy Central Half Hour Special and is now headlining the best comedy clubs on the circuit. With the help of Quincy Joness son, QD3, Finesse has made his stand-up comedy available in DVD form entitled,SNAP FAMOUS, which is currently in stores now and available online on Amazon.com, FinesseMitchell.com, and Fye.com. Finesse is also a talented writer and offers incredible and honest relationship advice in Essence magazine which serves over 1 million subscribers. Along with his column, Finesse has just completed his first book entitled, YOUR GIRLFRIENDS ONLY KNOW SO MUCH, (Simon Spotlight) giving dating advice to African-American women. "Whats new with me since my days at SNL? Hmmm... well I just finished my third movie called MAD MONEY starring Queen Latifah, Katie Holmes and Diane Keaton due out in 2008. Yep... I blessed the three Divas with a small cameo in their film since I had a tiny break in the schedule. And, they actually begged me to do more than what I did but it just wasn't in the budget... or the script. Ha Ha! AND I have two more gut bustin comedies coming to the silver screen: Whos Your Caddy - July 07, starring Big Boi (from Outkast, Wad-up ATL!) and The Comebacks, hitting theaters November 07! God is good."
Warren Moon One of the greatest players in professional football history, Warren Moon ranks among the top all-time in nearly every offensive statistical category for quarterbacks. Not including his first six seasons spent playing professionally in Canada, Moon passed for nearly 50,000 yards in 17 NFL seasons including nine Pro Bowl appearances and induction into the NFL Hall of Fame. Among his many accomplishments, Warren is most proud of being honored as NFL Man of the Year for his charitable work with the Crescent Moon Foundation. In addition to superior athleticism, Moon’s intelligence and creativity played an enormous role in his success both on and off the field. His combination of experience, and charisma allowed him to transition from being a player to successful businessman and broadcaster, as well as a mentor to young athletes. Off the field, embraced by each city in which he played, Warren helped a large list of charitable organizations, including the United Negro College Fund, the Ronald McDonald House, the Special Olympics, the March of Dimes, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the American Heart Association, and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Moon also created the Crescent Moon Foundation in 1989, which helped those in need in the city of Houston, and provided college scholarships to those who couldn't afford tuition. In addition to his role as a broadcaster, Warren speaks across the country to corporations, non-profits and schools. As a speaker, Warren is entertaining and engaging as he weaves in personal stories and anecdotes gleaned over his remarakable career. He talks about the perserverance it took to succeed in a hostile environment and the relationships that propelled him through the toughest times. Warren shares with audiences his views on the importance of strong mentors and the accountability that each of us has to those we touch in life. Personal Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 Currently a broadcaster for the Seattle Seahawks Featured on Fox Sports Ultimate Fantasy Football 1989, Named NFL Man of the Year for his charitable work with the Crescent Moon Foundation In the NFL Record Book InFL Record Book All-time NFL rankings at the time of his retirement in 2000:
Melba Moore Award winning singer, actress and philanthropist, Melba Moore's enduring talent has earned her a rewarding career in theater, television, music and film. She started the Melba Moore Foundation for children because she is devoted to the prevention of child abuse, neglect and illiteracy. Ms. Moore is a positive role model for all people and is a firm believer that through faith all things are possible. Her dynamic lecture is entitled, "Great Inspirations." Tony Award-winning singer and actress Melba Moore returns to her roots with this biographical and beautifully moving one woman, two act musical. Moore captivates the audience with her singing and stories of her life in this poignant and thrilling show.
Charles A. Moose Montgomery County Police Chief who gained celebrity status after leading one of the nation's most intense criminal investigations, culminating in the capture of the Beltway Snipers. The alleged perpretators terrorized the country after murdering ten people in Maryland and Virginia in October of 2002. Recipient of a Ph.D in urban studies, Charles Moose was police chief of Portland, Oregon before becoming police chief of Montgomery County, Maryland.
Rita Moreno Legendary Hispanic Broadway star, actress and entertainer, Rita Moreno delivers a motivational and inspiring lecture.
Joan Morgan Joan Morgan is an award-winning journalist and author and a provocative cultural critic.Journalist and executive editor for Essence magazine A self-confessed hip-hop junkie, she began her professional writing career freelancing for The Village Voice before having her work published by Vibe, Madison, Interview, MS, More, Spin, and numerous others. Formerly the Executive Editor of Essence, she is the author of When Chickenheads Come Home to Roost, a fresh, witty, and irreverent novel that marks the literary debut of one of the most original, perceptive, and engaging young social commentators in America today. Her work appears in numerous college texts, as well as books on feminism, music and African-American culture.
Marc Morial Marc H. Morial President and CEO of the National Urban League, succeeding Hugh B. Price, after being selected to by the Board of Trustees on May 15, 2003. Mr. Morial is a respected expert on national policy and its impact on cities, including the arts, transporation and infrastructure, the environment, crime prevention, housing, jobs, and recreation. Prior to being selected to lead the venerable organization, he practiced law with Adams and Reese LLP, the Gulf South's leading law firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mr. Morial also served two distinguished 4-year terms as Mayor of New Orleans from 1994-2002. During that time, he also served as President of the United States Conference of Mayors in 2001 and 2002. As New Orleans chief executive, he was one of the most popular and effective Mayors in the City's history, leaving office with a 70% approval rating. After being elected as one of the youngest mayors in the city's history, crime plummeted by 60%, a corrupt Police Department was reformed, new programs for youth were started, and a stagnant economy was re-energized.Under his watch, 7,000 new hotel rooms were added, and 15,000 new homeowners resulted from his progressive and innovative programs. In his final months in office, he orchestrated the return of the NBA to New Orleans, with the relocation of the Hornets from Charlotte to New Orleans.In addition, the Morial Convention Center was expanded to one of the largest in America, a downtown Sports Arena was built, and over 200 miles of streets were reconstructed, or resurfaced through Morial's far reaching "Rebuild New Orleans Now!" Bond issues which provided funding for nearly $400 million in City, School Board and Criminal Justice System infrastructure improvements. Many of these infrastructure improvements will be completed long after the end of his term, a testament to his long -range planning and management abilities.
Toni Morrison Morrison is one of the most prominent authors in world literature. Her eight major novels (The Bluest Eye, Sula, Song of Solomon, Tar Baby, Beloved, Jazz, Paradise and Love) have received extensive critical acclaim. She won the National Book Critics Award in 1978 for Song of Solomon and the 1988 Pulitzer Prize for Beloved. In 1993, Morrison was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. Since 1989, Morrison has been Robert F. Goheen Professor in the Council of the Humanities at Princeton University. She holds degrees from Howard University and Cornell University, and has also taught at Yale University, Bard College and Rutgers University. Morrison has been awarded honorary degrees from numerous institutions, including Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Oberlin College and Columbia University. Morrison, who was a senior editor at Random House for twenty years, co-authored the children's books Who's Got Game? The Lion or the Mouse?, Who's Got Game? The Ant or the Grasshopper?, The Book of Mean People and The Big Box. Her books of essays include Playing in the Dark: Whiteness and the Literary Imagination; the edited collection Race-ing Justice, En-Gendering Power: Essays on Anita Hill, Clarence Thomas, and the construction of Social Reality; and the co-edited collection Birth of a Nation'hood: Gaze, Script, and Spectacle in the O.J. Simpson Case. Additional awards she has received include the 2000 National Humanities Medal; the 2000 Library of Congress Bicentennial Living Legend award; the 1996 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters; the 1994 Condorcet Medal, Paris; the 1989 Modern Language Association of America Commonwealth Award in Literature; the 1988 Anisfield Wolf Book Award in Race Relations; and the 1978 Distinguished Writer Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Morrison is a founding member of the Academie Universelle Des Culture, a trustee of the New York Public Library, a member of the American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. She served on the National Council of the Arts for six years, and is a member of the Africa Watch and Helsinki Watch Committees on Human Rights.
Carlos Munoz, Jr. Distinguished Mexican American scholar, Dr. Carlos Munoz is an advocate of cultural diversity in education and society at large. He is the founder of the first Mexican American/Chicano Studies Department in the United States and is a pioneer in the field of ethnic studies. His best-selling book, Youth, Identity, Power: The Chicano Movement, was the basis for the PBS documentary film series on the Mexican American Civil Rights movement.
Charlie Murphy Charles Quinton 'Charlie' Murphy is the older brother of comedian Eddie Murphy. He is best known as a writer and actor on the American television program Chappelle's Show, as well as providing the voice for Ed Wuncler III in the animated Adult Swim show The Boondocks. He is also a stand up comedian himself. He is noted for having a ridiculously deep bag of "pimperish, prisony" catch phrases. Dave Chappelle once said Murphy is "just as funny or funnier than a comedian." Murphy's most famous contribution to the show is the Charlie Murphy's True Hollywood Stories sketches (spoofing the eponymous E! Entertainment Television show). In these, Murphy recounts his misadventures as part of his brother's entourage, including his encounters with various celebrities; most importantly the late Rick James and Prince. Although wildly successful, in an August 2005 interview with TV Guide, Murphy announced that Chappelle's Show was finished [1]. Murphy was associated with the late 1980s hiphop group, K*9 Posse. The K*9 Posse was Vernon Lynch, Jr. (Eddie and Charlie's half brother) and Wardell Mahone. Charlie Murphy is credited as the executive producer of the K*9 Posse's self-titled album as well as having writing credit on two tracks on the record, Say Who Say What and Somebody's Brother. The latter track is written about Murphy himself reflecting on a relationship with a woman who was caught up in the excitement of being around all the famous people that Murphy associated with. But Murphy comes out on top with the lyrics, "You see I don't mind workin undercover, It's a blessing not a curse to be somebody's brother." Possessing a distinctive voice and an extraordinary talent for verbal illustration, Murphy has done voiceovers for Budweiser radio commercials, Cartoon Network's Adult Swim series The Boondocks and voiced a pimp named Jizzy-B in Rockstar Games' Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas video game. Recently, Murphy provided the voice for Spock on the G4TV's Star Trek 2.0 shorts. In 2004, Charlie embarked upon a sold out national comedy tour, The I'm Rich Bitch comedy tour featuring Chappelle's Show regulars Donnell Rawlings and Bill Burr. In 2005, his stand up career continued to grow with a sold out follow up tour, Charlie Murphy and Friends, as well as a co-headlining tour with Mike Epps. Murphy and Epps will co-star in Fox Searchlight's Garbage Men, a spin-off of Roll Bounce.
Irene Natividad A leader in the women's movement in the United States, Irene Natividad serves as Executive Director of the Philippine American Foundation and is Chair of the National Commission on Working Women, which works to improve the economic status of working women across the country. Ms. Natividad is also the Director of the Global Summit of Women, a biennial international gathering of women leaders from around the world to explore new paradigms for leadership in a changing world. Topics: Asian adoptees as young adults;Affirmative Action; Workplace Issues; The Role of the Asian-American in Politics, Industry, Science and Technology; Impact of Asian-Americans on Pacific Rim Trade and Foreign Policy.
Jill Nelson Author of the provocative serio-comic memoir, Volunteer Slavery: My Authentic Negro Experience, a funny, sassy and sad book about a contemporary woman trying to reconcile the worlds of work and self. An award winning journalist for The Washington Post, Jill Nelson is a contributor to Ms. magazine, The Village Voice and The New York Times. Her new book is entitled, Straight No Chaser.
Gil Noble ABC News correspondent and host of the Emmy award winning Black affairs program "Like It Is."
Dr. Wade Nobles Dr. Nobles , an experimental social psychologist, is the founder and Executive Director of the Institute for the Advanced Study of Black Family, Life and Culture, Inc. He has a special interest in the social, ethnic and cultural relativity of social science, research and evaluation models. Dr. Nobles is a prominent theoretical scientist in the fields of African Psychology, cross-cultural and ethno-human functioning. He is one of the leading researchers on social systems and psycho-cultural development. In addition to his research interest in the area of African-American family dynamics, his research interest also covers HIV/AIDS and SA Prevention, the psychological aspects of mythology, Black child development, parenting, African Spiritual systems and systems of human transformation and development.
Eleanor Holmes Norton Civil Rights advocate, lawyer, social activist, U.S. Congresswoman and feminist who headed the U.S. government's Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ((EEOC) from 1977 to 1981. Ms. Norton ran the New York City Commission on Human Rights for seven years prior to her nomination to head the EEOC. A professor of law, Ms. Norton has been widely hailed by human rights activists and business executives alike for her unique ability to affect change.
Dr. Antonia Novello Antonia Coello Novello, M.D., M.P.H., Dr.P.H., was nominated by Governor George Pataki and confirmed as the thirteenth Commissioner of Health for the State of New York on June 15, 1999. Dr. Novello was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, and earned her B.S. and M.D. degrees at the University of Puerto Rico. Dr. Novello served a pediatric internship and residency at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and completed subspecialty training in pediatric nephrology at the University of Michigan and Georgetown University. She also earned Masters of Public Health and Doctor of Public Health degrees from Johns Hopkins University. She is a board-certified pediatrician. Dr. Novello has a long and illustrious career in public health. From 1979 to 1990, she worked for the U.S. Public Health Service at the National Institutes of Health, where she served in various capacities, rising to Deputy Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. In 1990, Dr. Novello was appointed by President George Bush as the U.S. Surgeon General, a position she held until 1993. From 1993 to 1996, Dr. Novello served as the Special Representative for Health and Nutrition with UNICEF. Immediately prior to joining the New York State Department of Health, she served as Visiting Professor and Special Director of Community Health Policies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health. Dr. Novello is Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the Georgetown University School of Medicine and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. She is also Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases at the University of Michigan and Adjunct Professor of International Health at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. Dr. Novello is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the American Society of Nephrology, the American Society of Pediatric Nephrology, the American Pediatrics Society, and the Society for Pediatric Research. She is a member of the Institute of Medicine and a member of Alpha Omega Alpha. She is the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including Surgeon General's Exemplary Service Medallion and Medal, Distinguished Service Medal of the U.S. Public Health Service, the American Medical Association's Nathan B. Davis Award, the National Women's Hall of Fame, the American Academy of Pediatrics Excellence in Public Service Award, the Johns Hopkins Society of Scholars Award, the Elizabeth Blackwell Award, the Public Health Service Commissioned Officer's Association Health Leader of the Year Award, the Charles C. Shepard Science Award for Scientific Excellence, and the Ronald McDonald Children's Charities Award of Excellence. She holds over 45 honorary degrees.
OCHEAMI Dance Troupe African American performers with a common goal to study and share West African culture, OCHEAMI, in the "Ga" language (Ghana, Africa) means "linguist," the representative who speaks through the drums, dance, song, and storytelling.
Darryl McDaniels Of Run DMC Darryl McDaniels, or DMC as most of the world knows him, helped transform the musical landscape as one-third of the trailblazing, multi-platinum rap group Run-DMC. They sold more than 30 million album and singles worldwide and the rest is now a matter of musical history. Since forming the legendary band with Joseph (Rev. Run) Simmons and the late Jason (Jam Master Jay) Mizell, DMC has remained in the public eye. He is recognized as a pioneer in stoking the popularity of rap and hip-hop into the best-selling and most influential musical genre that it is today. DMC, along with Run-DMC bandmates Run and Jam Master Jay, grew up in Hollis, Queens, New York, a relatively stable, comfortable black community not unlike many others across America. He attended Catholic schools in the city and enrolled at St. Johns University in Queens in 1982. He nurtured his dream of being a performer and not long after the friends parlayed a connection (Runs brother, Russell Simmons), as well as a ton of talent, into their first album, 1984s, Run-DMC. Their impact was immediate. Run-DMC became the first true hip-hop superstars and the group succeeded well beyond anyones wildest dreams their own included. They embodied the endlessly creative subculture of a young black New York. They were the first rappers to earn a gold album, the first to earn a platinum album and go multi-platinum, the first to have their videos played on MTV, the first to appear on Saturday Night Live and American Bandstand, and the first to grace the cover of Rolling Stone and Spin. It would be hard to overstate Run-DMCs influence on the evolving hip-hopification of pop culture and DMCs contribution to that legacy is profound. Albums including Raising Hell, Tougher Than Leather, Down with the King and King of Rock, are some of the musical genres best. For DMC however, recording studios and concert halls would not be his only platforms for expression. Television appearances on Soul Train and the pilot episode of Yo! MTV Raps led to those on such sitcoms as 227, The Ben Stiller Show and recently The Jamie Kennedy Experiment. Along with countless award shows, specials and documentaries, he appeared on the big screen in such period films as Krush Groove, L.A. D.J. and the Run-DMC project Tougher Than Leather. Verifying his talent rather than his celebrity alone, his songs were also featured in such films as Boyz n the Hood and Die Hard. Then, in October 2002 when bandmate Jam Master Jay was suddenly killed, McDaniels and Simmons retired Run-DMC. Having lost his friend and the band that was his livelihood, McDaniels decided to rededicate his talents. It was also during this time that DMC was told by his parents that he was adopted. Suddenly everything he thought he knew about himself changed and he began to question his purpose and place in life. DMC invited VH1 on his journey to track down this other family he never knew was out there. DMC: My Adoption Journey documents that search, and illustrates DMCs search for his biological roots, as well as his spiritual journey of self-discovery. Currently, DMC is working on a new, follow up documentary titled DMC: Deliver My Children, which aims to shed light on the foster care system in the United States. DMC achieved another milestone in his career by winning an Emmy Award for his critically acclaimed VH1 "Rock Doc" documentary DMC: My Adoption Journey. After more than ten films, this is the first Emmy awarded to the VH1 "Rock Doc" production staff as well. Both the legendary rapper and VH1 topped a number of critically acclaimed documentaries at the 28th Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards black-tie dinner held September 25, 2007. With a new sense of destiny and understanding of the events that had taken place in his life, DMC put pen to paper and started to write Just Like Me, a personal interpretation of Harry Chapins Cat In the Cradle. Just Like Me also features a “motherly” vocal by Sarah McLachlan, whose Grammy-winning album Surfacing had a profound and timely effect on DMC. During a time when I was in a bad place in my life, I discovered Sarah’s album and listened to it every day, he says. When he met McLachlan at the Grammys and told her that it had deeply affected him, she replied, That’s what music is supposed to do. When DMC approached McLachlan about performing on the song, not only did she agree to provide the vocal for Just Like Me, she offered her home studio in Vancouver to record the project. She also appears in the song’s video. DMC released the singles Watchtower and Lovey Dovey from his first solo album, Checks Thugs and Rock n Roll (RomenMpire Records/Rags 2 Riches Records). Four years in the making, Checks Thugs and Rock ‘n Roll features a virtual who’s who of artists from various musical genres. They include Sarah McLachlan, Run, Doug E. Fresh, Gary Dourdan (CSI), Romeo Antonio, Kid Rock, DJ Lethal, Ms. Jade, Sonny Black and Napoleon (Outlawz). The music of Checks Thugs and Rock ‘n Roll is sure to introduce DMC the solo artist, to a younger audience that challenges those in his own generation to re-embrace hip-hop. Musically rich, the title of the album eviscerates the lifestyle-driven mentality that has come to dominate the rap world at the expense of authenticity. In addition, the album celebrates some of DMC’s own musical influences including Bob Dylan, Harry Chapin and Jimi Hendrix. DMC is currently working his second solo album for which he gave two titles, The Return Of The Son Of Byford and Hip Hop Is Alive
Charles Ogletree Prominent legal theorist and a professor of law at Harvard University School of Law. A frequent moderator and guest on television news and talkshows, Charles Ogletree has appeared regularly on C-SPAN, PBS, NBC and on other television networks. He lectures on such issues as race relations, crime, social pathologies, education, economic disparities and securing the rights guaranteed by the Constitution for everyone equally under the law.
Hakeem Olajuwon All star basketball player for the Houston Rockets of the NBA and a member of the 1996 U.S. Olympic basketball gold medal winning team.
Stephanie Oliver Well known journalist and health expert, Stephanie Stokes Oliver is the author of Cornbread: 365 Secrets for a Healthy Mind, Body and Spirit. She shares personal tips on health, fitness and spirituality and tells the audience how to have optimum health and happiness in the new millenium. Stephanie Stokes Oliver was an editor at Essence magazine and founding editor-in-chief of Heart & Soul magazine.
Patrice ONeal Patrice O'Neal grew up in Roxbury, MA across the street from the projects. Even though the buildings on both sides of the street were brick and looked just alike, Patrice and his friends let the kids from the projects know the distinction - Patrice's and his friend's buildings were privately owned and they took pride in that. The pickup football games became "Projects vs. Private Property" - the trash talking that went on during those games honed Patrice's early comic sensibility. In high school Patrice's talent in football was recognized and he was recruited by the coach at Northeastern University. But Patrice hated playing football... he really wanted to be a comic. And so it was. He attended Northeastern University, but studied theatre arts. He never played football again. Patrice got his first real taste of standup at a place called "Estelle's" in Boston, where he heckled a comic. The comic suggested maybe Patrice thought he could do better. Patrice did - the following week, Patrice went up at the club and brought down the house. From there he went on to work at The Comedy Connection and then moved to working at most of the clubs in and around Boston, New England and New York. Now, years later, Patrice has a wide range of comedic tools - from whispers and tiny facial expressions to animated movement and shouting. In one bit, Patrice at 6'5" and 300+ lbs, makes the audience hear and almost see the story of an eastern gymnast quietly speaking of her difficult upbringing and training. The Boston Globe said, "It is a hilarious piece, made all the more so by the contradiction between O'Neal's very visible presence and that of the tiny, tough white girl he is playing". Asked to whom he aspires, Patrice mentions only two names: George Carlin and Richard Pryor; Carlin for his distinct point of view and universal appeal; Pryor for his honesty, vulnerability and personal revelation. Patrice has appeared on many many TV shows in the USA, and will be appearing on the Comedy Factory for Dutch TV. He is making his debut appearance at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival and is set to become one of the regular visitors to the UK Comedy Circuit.
Duke Ellington Orchestra The world famous Duke Ellington Orchestra, conducted by Edward Ellingtonn, is available for a concert or dance.
Gary Orfield Gary Orfield, director of the Harvard Project on School Desegregation and codirector of the Harvard Civil rights Project. Orfield, a professor education and social policy at Harvard, is known for his interest in civil rights, education policy, urban policy and minority opportunity. He writes frequently about standardized testing, changing patterns of school desegregation and the impact of diversity on the educational experiences of law students. His books include: Raising Standards or Raising Barriers: Inequality and High-Stakes in Public Education; and Chilling Admissions: the Affirmative Action Crisis and the Search for Alternatives.
E. Randel Osburn The youngest minister on Dr. Martin Luther King's original field staff, founder of the Martin Luther King Youth Foundation and presently the national administrator of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).
Edward P. Jones Edward P. Jones, the New York Times bestselling author, has been awarded the Pulitzer Prize for fiction, the National Book Critics Circle Award, the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and the Lannan Literary Award for The Known World; he also received a MacArthur Fellowship in 2004. His first collection of short stories, Lost in the City, won the PEN/Hemingway Award and was short-listed for the National Book Award. He has taught fiction writing at a range of universities, including Princeton.
Clarence Page Clarence Page, the 1989 Pulitzer Prize winner for Commentary, has been a columnist and a member of the newspaper's editorial board since July 1984. His column is syndicated nationally by Tribune Media Services and he does twice-weekly commentary on WGN-TV, Chicago. He has been based in Washington, D.C. since May 1991. Page is an occasional guest panelist on "The McLaughlin Group," a regular contributor of essays to the MacNeil/Lehrer News Hour and a host of documentaries on the Public Broadcasting System. He is a regular panelist on Black Entertainment Television's (BET) weekly "Lead Story" news panel program and a biweekly commentator for National Public Radio's (NPR) "Weekend Sunday." Page was a reporter and assistant city editor for the Chicago Tribune from 1969 to 1980. He joined WBBM-TV in August 1980 as director of the Community Affairs Department. He was a reporter and planning editor at the station from August 1982 to July 1984. Page's awards include a 1980 Illinois UPI award for community service for an investigative series titled "The Black Tax" and the Edward Scott Beck Award for overseas reporting of a 1976 series on the changing politics of Southern Africa. Page also participated in a 1972 Chicago Tribune Task Force series on vote fraud which won the Pulitzer Prize. He has received awards from the Illinois and Wisconsin chapters of the American Civil Liberties Union for his columns on civil liberties and constitutional rights. He was inducted into the Chicago Journalism Hal of Fame in 1992. As a freelance writer, he has published articles in Chicago Magazine, the Chicago Reader, Washington Monthly, New Republic, Wall Street Journal, New York Newsday, and Emerge. His new book, Showing My Color: Impolite Essays on Race and Identity, has been published by HarperCollins. A 1965 graduate of Middletown High School, Middletown Ohio, he began his journalism career as a freelance writer and photographer for the Middletown Journal and Cincinnati Enquirer at the age of 17. Page received his Bachelor of Science in journalism degree from Ohio University in 1969. He has received honorary degrees from Columbia College in Chicago and Lake Forest (Illinois) College.
Dr. Rod Paige Dr. Rod Paige served as the 7th U.S. Secretary of Education during President George W. Bush’s first term in office. His vast experience as a practitioner — from the blackboard to the boardroom — paid off during the long hours of work needed to pass President Bush’s No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). Now he is leading the charge — in partnership with states and districts — to implement these historic reforms.
Dr. Orlando Patterson Professor of sociology at Harvard University and the author of Rituals of Blood, the second volume of trilogy on race relations. His study of slavery and domination prompted interest in the study of the nature and development of its shadow concept of freedom. He also focused his research on contemporary America with special emphasis on race, immigration and multiculturalism.
Chris Paul Chris Paul has quickly become one of the NBA’s rising stars. Paul was drafted by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2005 NBA Draft and quickly adapted to the level of play in the NBA and was named the Western Conference Rookie of the Month each month. His impeccable skill led him to be named the 2005-2006 NBA Rookie of the Year and helped lead the USA National Basketball team to the bronze medal at the 2006 FIBA World Basketball Championships. During his sophomore season, Paul proved himself yet again by leading the Hornets in total points, steals and assists. A Winston-Salem, North Carolina native, Paul has been dedicated to his community long before he became an NBA star. Paul initiated a philanthropic campaign designed to highlight his dedication to both his grandfather’s spirit and to the Winston-Salem community that nurtured him from his days as a stand-out high school student-athlete to a national star at Wake Forest. Paul and his family created the CP3 Foundation in partnership with the Winston-Salem Foundation to support charitable causes of great importance to them. The CP3 Foundation has raised more than $200,000 which has helped establish the Nathaniel Jones Scholarship Fund in memory of Paul’s late grandfather. Paul has also reached out in Oklahoma City and New Orleans by donating food baskets and bikes for underprivileged children. In 2006 the NBA acknowledged Paul’s community involvement and service and awarded Paul the NBA’s Community Assist Award. Articles • “His heart: Oh, what a beauty” Biography New Orleans Hornets point guard Chris Paul is quickly becoming one of the NBA's rising stars. The fourth overall selection in the 2005 NBA Draft, Paul quickly adapted to the level of play in the NBA and was named the Western Conference Rookie of the Month each month after leading all rookies in points (16.1), assists (7.8), steals (2.2), triple-doubles (2) and minutes played (36.4). He would later be named the 2005-06 NBA Rookie of the Year, garnering 124 of the 125 first-place votes. Following his rookie year, Paul helped lead the USA National Basketball team to the bronze medal at the 2006 FIBA World Basketball Championships. During his sophomore season, Paul led the team in assists, steals and total points and was a member of the sophomore squad at the 2007 T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam at the NBA's All-Star Weekend. A Winston-Salem, NC native, Paul choose to stay close to home for college and starred at Wake Forest University where he went on to become a two-time All-American. Paul decided to make himself eligible for the NBA Draft after his sophomore year at Wake Forest. Paul's rise to the NBA began on the courts of West Forsyth High School where he led the Titans to the state Class 4-A Eastern Regional Final and a record of 27-3 during his senior year. Arguably one of the most significant moments in his basketball career came when he tallied 61 points in one game as a senior in honor of his grandfather, Nathaniel Jones, who was tragically murdered just days before. When Paul reached the 61-point mark (his grandfather was 61-years old), he intentionally missed a free throw, then took himself out of the game in a fitting tribute to the man that meant so much to him.
Mario Van Peebles Well known movie star, director and producer.
Melvin Van Peebles Controversial filmmaker, actor and motion picture director, Melvin Van Peebles is often credited by Spike Lee as being one of the pioneers for Blacks in the movie industry today. His movie, "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasss Song," which he wrote, produced, and directed remains among VarietyÔs list of all time moneymakers.
Chien Chung Pei Noted Asian American architect.
Cedric Pendleton While working full time in corporate sales, he emerged himself in a concentrated, back-breaking internship at Actor's Express Theater under then Artistic Director Chris Coleman, the result of which was a stunning debut performance in Stand Up Tragedy in which he played the lead. He has since worked on stage with such respected actors and directors as Gary Yates, David Bell, Ella Joyce, Ruby Dee, Angela Gibbs, Joan Pringle, and Woody King, Jr. Committed and passionate from the very beginning, Cedric kept reaching and working. He added commercials, voice over work and industrials to his resume. And he made the most of Atlanta's burgeoning independent film community, in which his talent, perseverance, and charm served him well and put him on the local A-list. As he consistently honed his talents and skills, his independent film work soon led to roles in hit features such as Runaway Jury, Summer Catch, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and Madea's Family Reunion, allowing him to work with the likes of Brian Dennehy, Freddie Prinze, Jr., Debbie Allen, and Tyler Perry. All the while, he was paving his way to Oz. Once he took the plunge and moved West, he proved that he was not just a big fish in a small pond, but rather, he could hold his own with the big dogs. Cedric landed supporting and recurring roles in hit television shows and movies like The Fantasia Barino Story, The Shield, The Guardian, One Tree Hill, Strong Medicine, and NYPD Blue. For Cedric, like any true artist, there is no separation between his life and his craft. He commands attention like a star, and he thrives on it like a star. Unexpectedly, he accepts praise with grace. A multi-faceted treasure, he is also a producer, promoter, writer, poet, lyricist, and motivational speaker and a gifted athlete, martial artist, teacher, and mentor. Cedric Pendleton: Dedicated. Team player. Enthusiastic. He brings his best game. Every time.
Tyler Perry Tyler Perry became America's most successful young playwright and the writer, producer and co-star of the box office hit Diary of a Mad Black Woman. But it was a long hard road. In 1992 Perry wrote letters to himself in an effort to deal with his childhood pain. These would provide the basis for the musical I Know I've Been Changed about adult survivors of child abuse. Tyler Perry saved $12,000 and moved to Atlanta in 1992, where he tried to stage the play. Initially, however, I Know I've Been Changed was a flop. Hardly anyone came to the shows and over the next 6 years, Tyler Perry found himself homeless on several occasions, and doing dozens of different jobs to support his determination that the play would succeed. He had come to the point of giving up on the show, when in 1998, the turning point came. I Know I've Been Changed opened at the House of Blues and sold out eight times over before moving to the Fox Theater where it sold out 9,000 seats for two shows. Since then Tyler Perry has been on a roll. His next production, Woman Thou Art Loosed based on the book by Bishop T.D. Jakes grossed over $5 million in five months. Further productions including I Can Do Bad All By Myself, Behind Closed Doors, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Madea's Family Reunion, Madea's Class Reunion, Meet the Browns, and Madea Goes to Jail have meant that the once broke Perry has now earned tens of millions of dollars.
Rodney Perry Rodney Perry has a wife and 5 kids, with such a big family “Making It” is the only option. Rodney was born in Chicago raised in Monroe, Louisiana and then ushered into the comedy world in the Bay Area. His Stage show is energy-driven with sidesplitting insights on everything from the work world to the everyday joys…and occasional trials…of family life. Rodney has appeared in the Fox Searchlight Film Johnson Family Vacation (Starring Kings of Comedy Cedric the Entertainer and Steve Harvey). Rodney has made scene stealing performances in several upcoming films, Legac, Redrum and ShowStoppers all set for release in 2007. Most recently Rodney serves as Co-Host of Tv One’s hit comedy competition “Who’s Got Jokes”. Rodney Perrys television appearances include BETs Comic View, Showtimes LAFFAPALOOZA, and Hbos Def Comedy Jam. He has toured with legendary Hip-Hop artist RUNDMC as well as late music icon Ray Charles. Rodney is a McDonalds Bay Area Black Comedy Competition and Festival Champion.
Randal Pinkett Randal is the first African American candidate to be hired on national television through the US version of The Apprentice, a television reality show starring Donald Trump. (There have been black candidates hired in the South African and British versions of the programme before Pinkett was hired.) Pinkett was hired on national television during the season finale of season four. Pinkett is the President and CEO of BCT Partners [1], a management, technology and policy consulting services firm. Over the course of the season, Pinkett had the best record as project manager, with an undefeated 3-0 record. Pinkett's competitor in the finale was Rebecca Jarvis, a journalist from Chicago. For his final task, Pinkett met with Outback Steakhouse executives and the CEO of Autism Speaks in order to coordinate his most difficult task of the entire series, a charity fundraiser for Autism Speaks. Pinkett planned a celebrity softball game, but the game was rained out. Pinkett was criticized by Trump's associate Carolyn Kepcher for lack of a detailed back-up plan and for failing to monitor the weather after an early forecast put the chances of rain at 30%. Pinkett arranged a last-minute auction in an undecorated white room, which raised nearly $11,000. Trump criticized Pinkett for not spotlighting the celebrities in attendance, who intermingled with the auction crowd. In an unusual twist, when Pinkett was hired by Trump, Trump asked Pinkett if he should also hire Jarvis. Pinkett replied, "I firmly believe this is 'The Apprentice,'" and that "there is one, and only one 'Apprentice' and if you're going to hire someone tonight, it should be one." He added that the show was called "The Apprentice" and not "The Apprenti" Trump said he "could have been convinced," but opted to agree with Pinkett and "leave it at that." Trump then dropped the subject, but many viewers were left with the impression that he had hoped to hire both Pinkett and Jarvis. (The fourth season of The Apprentice regularly saw Trump playing havoc with established procedures, including multiple firings.) Pinkett firmly stood by his decision, which was subsequently both praised and panned and sparked debate well after the finale aired. Pinkett later gave his version of the events in an interview with blackenterprise.com. He stated, "I'm satisfied with the decision I made and I'm pleased with the arguments I presented. As I said last night, 'in a competition there is only one winner.' You wouldn't ask the gold medalist in the Olympics to share with the silver medalist. Unfortunately for those that wanted to see a double hiring or see Rebecca win, I ended up being the bearer of bad news. However, at the end of day all I did was give Mr. Trump my recommendation. It was ultimately his decision to not hire Rebecca."
Def Poetry The acclaimed late-night series RUSSELL SIMMONS PRESENTS DEF POETRY COMES TO YOUR SCHOOL. The audacious, uncensored late-night series Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry returns to HBO with a fifth season. This year the seminal spoken word series presents seasoned and up-and-coming poets performing their work onstage before a live audience, interspersed with a big-ticket lineup of celebrities also trying their hand at poetry.Praised by the New York Times as an "exuberant, daringly fresh series that breaks poetry out of the neat little boxes it's so often put it," Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry features a spectrum of voices.
Sidney Poitier Poitier is known the world over for his consistent, sensitive and powerful portrayals in such socially charged films as No Way Out, Blackboard Jungle, Something of Value, The Defiant Ones, A Raisin in the Sun, A Patch of Blue, To Sir With Love, In the Heat of the Night, Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, Lilies of the Field and many others. He has been walking tall among Hollywood's most respected and honored stars for more than five decades. He made his motion picture debut in No Way Out, garnered critical acclaim and national recognition in Blackboard Jungle, received his first Academy Award nomination for The Defiant Ones in 1958, and won the coveted Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in Lilies of the Field. In addition to Poitier's personal success, he has been a leading figure among African American achievers. He serves as the Ambassador to Japan from the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. He was knighted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1968. He has received the American Film Institute Lifetime Achievement Award, the Kennedy Center Lifetime Achievement Award and the Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award.
Kevin Powell Kevin Powell is widely considered one of Americas most important voices in these early years of the 21st century. Legendary feminist icon Gloria Steinem proclaimed that "as a charismatic speaker, leader, and a very good writer, Kevin Powell has the courage...to be fully human, and this will bring the deepest revolution of all." Famed scholar and social critic Dr. Michael Eric Dyson has called Powell "a mighty wind of fresh air." Kevin Powell is an activist, poet, journalist, essayist, editor, cultural curator, hiphop historian, songwriter, music producer, public speaker, political consultant and fundraiser, and businessman. A product of extreme poverty, welfare, fatherlessness, and a single mother-led household, he is a native of Jersey City, New Jersey and was educated at New Jerseys Rutgers University. Kevin Powell is a longtime resident of Brooklyn, New York, and it is from his base in New York City that Powell has published six books, including his current title, Whos Gonna Take The Weight? Manhood, Race, and Power in America, which is an Essence magazine bestseller. His next project, Someday Will All Be Free, will hit in 2006 and will feature essays on the 2004 presidential election, September 11th, and Hurricane Katrina and the Gulf Coast tragedy. Powell is also at work on his childhood memoir, homeboy alone, slated for 2008. Additionally, Powell is compiling his second volume of poetry, My Own Private Ghetto, and The Kevin Powell Reader, which will highlight the first twenty years of his literary career. Indeed, he has written numerous essays, articles, and reviews over the past two decades for publications such as Newsweek, The Washington Post, Essence, Code, Rolling Stone, The Amsterdam News, and Vibe, where he was a founding staff member and served as a senior writer. It was at Vibe that Powell interviewed and profiled a number of hiphop icons including, most famously, the late Tupac Shakur on several occasions.
Colin L. Powell General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) became the 65th Secretary of State on January 20, 2001. As he stated at his confirmation hearing, the guiding principle of U.S. foreign policy during his tenure was that "America stands ready to help any country that wishes to join the democratic world." General Powell brought extensive experience with him to his office. Before becoming Secretary of State, Colin Powell served as a key aide to the Secretary of Defense and as National Security Advisor to President Reagan. He also served 35 years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Four-Star General and serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (1989 – 1993). During this time he oversaw 28 crises to include the Panama intervention of 1989 and Operation Desert Storm in the victorious 1991 Persian Gulf War. That experience served him well, both before and particularly after the events of September 11, 2001, the day of the greatest tragedy on American soil since Pearl Harbor. As Secretary he stood shoulder to shoulder with the President and the other members of the President's cabinet in fighting the war on terrorism. As he often said, "winning that war is our first priority, and it will remain so for as long as necessary." A fervent purveyor of democratic values, Colin Powell stressed that fighting the war on terrorism is not just a military but also a diplomatic task – the two go hand in hand. He led the State Department in major efforts to solve regional and civil conflicts – in the Middle East, between Israel and its Arab neighbors; in Sudan, Congo and Liberia; in the Balkans, Cyprus, Haiti, Northern Ireland and elsewhere. He was especially concerned with the peace and security of Afghanistan and Iraq, countries where winning the peace is as important as Coalition battlefield victories. In all areas, he used the power of diplomacy and the universal ideal of democracy to build trust, forge alliances and then begin to transform these once-unstable regions into areas where societies and cultures prosper. General Powell was devoted to grasping opportunities as well as to confronting the global and regional security challenges of the 21st century. He was at the forefront of the administration's efforts to advance economic and social development worldwide – in the fight against HIV/AIDS, in the promise of the Millennium Challenge Account, the most significant change in helping needy nations since the Marshall Plan, and in pursuing a freer trading and investment climate worldwide. These efforts, too, are not separate from the nation's security agenda. Indeed, in testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, then Secretary Powell affirmed that our main purpose is to extend democracy, prosperity, and freedom to every corner of the world. It is a process that is establishing a balance of power that favors freedom across the globe.
Hugh Price President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Urban League, the premier social service and civil rights organization in America.
Puerto Rican Theater Company America's foremost ethnic drama company, the Puerto Rican Theater Company presents plays from a Hispanic point of view.
Quasar Looming Ntozake Shange, the noted playwright, novelist, poet and performer in a series of duets combining music, dance, hip hop with her poetry and prose. Joining her in this duet will be either Elmo Preston on guitar and keyboard, Chico Freeman on alto sax, Billy Bang on violin or Diane Harvey, dancer.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Popular Broadway, television and movie star, Sheryl Lee Ralph is no stranger to success; but among Black actresses, she may be the exception. She has starred in "It's A Living;" her own series "New Attitude;" in the comedy, "Designing Women;" and in the hit series, "Moesha." Her film credits include, "Sister Act II," "The Flintstones," "The Mighty Quinn," "Mistress," "The Distinguished Gentleman," "White Man's Burden," "Witch Hunt," and "Bogus" with Whoopi Goldberg.
Sheryl Lee Ralph Sheryl Lee Ralph is one of the most well liked, respected and recognizable celebrity faces. A triple threat Dreamgirl, this award winning actress, singer, and producer has added motivational speaker to her impressive list of credits, addressing churches, businesses, professional and women’s groups with her own unique blend of passion and inspiration. Her exceptional abilities extend from TV, concert halls, to feature films and the Broadway stage. Nominated for the coveted Tony Award and the Drama Desk Award for creating the role of “Deena Jones” in the landmark Broadway musical “Dreamgirls,” Ralph has starred in such feature films as The Distinguished Gentleman with Eddie Murphy, The Mighty Quinn with Denzel Washington, Mistress with Robert DeNiro, and Sister Act 2 with Whoopi Goldberg. Ralph won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in To Sleep with Anger with Danny Glover. She found immense popularity on TV starring in hits such as It’s a Living, Designing Women and Moesha. She broke new ground in the Showtime series, BarberShop, as the popular, post operative transsexual, Claire. Ralph brought a new face to the sufferings of war in the NBC hit series ER. Ralph is also the creator/producer of DIVAS Simply Singing! which after seventeen years of commitment has become one of the most important AIDS fundraisers in Hollywood, headlining such talent as Chaka Khan, Brenda Russell, Oleta Adams, Roberta Flack, Raven Symone, Melissa Manchester, Dianne Reeves, The PussyCat Dolls, Stacey "Fergie" Ferguson and many more. Ralph also is founder and creator of the very successful Jamerican Film Festival which has produced five Showtime Filmmaker Finalists in five years.
Rich Ramirez Hispanic-American comedian who appeared in all major comedy clubs and cruise ships throughout the world. Rich Ramirez has also appeared on BET, VH-1 Comedy Central and many other television shows. A class Act!
William Rasberry Washington Post journalist whose political and urban affairs column is nationally syndicated. Time magazine has hailed him as "the most respected Black voice on any white U.S. newspaper."
Ahmad Rashad Popular television sports color commentator and former NFL football star.
Tim Reid Emmy nominated actor, director, writer and producer, Tim Reid co-starred in the television sitcom, "WKRP in Cincinnati," in the Warner Brothers series, "Sister Sister," and in numerous feature films and in the theater. He is the author of a book of poetry entitled As I Feel It.
Jacque Reid Jacque Reid is currently a news correspondent on the nationally syndicated radio program, the Tom Joyner Morning Show. In addition, Reid is currently a guest host on the ABC daytime syndicated program, The View. Prior to that, Reid served as co-host of the nationally syndicated radio show, the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Jacque came to radio from CNN Headline News, and BET Nightly News, where she was known as the face of the former flagship evening news program. As co-host of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, she served as the feminine mystique adding balance to the witty banter of her male counterparts, comedians Steve Harvey and Nephew Tommy Miles. While the principal anchor of BET Nightly News, Reid brought a wealth of experience and talent along with a stylish, contemporary presence to a national cable newscast on a daily basis. She covered major news stories that included one-on-one interviews with President George W. Bush, former POW Shoshanna Johnson, Democratic Presidential Candidate John Kerry, and former President Bill Clinton. She was the first to interview Luther Vandross' mother as the singer lay in the hospital recovering from a near fatal stroke. She also anchored team coverage of the Trent Lott controversy, and hosted a live half-hour roundtable discussion following his televised interview on BET. During the 2004 Republican National Convention, Jacque joined CNN's Larry King Live and worked as a guest correspondent and contributor. Reid has also been an occasional fill-in anchor and featured correspondent for CBS News and had previously worked in those capacities on CBS' The Early Show, providing reports on the days hot topics. In 2005, Reid also filed stories for the CBS Weekend Evening News, and worked as a fill-in anchor for the CBS overnight news program, Up To The Minute. In addition to news events, from 2002 - 2005, Reid provided special coverage each year for the BET Awards Show, hosting a one-hour interview special, and anchoring a special live broadcast outside of L.A.'s Kodak Theatre following the program. Her celebrity interviews have included such A list stars like Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx.
Daphne Maxwell Reid Daphne Maxwell Reid is known as Aunt Viv, the matriarch on NBC's hit comedy, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air". She is also known for her role of mortician/embalmer Hannah Griffin on the CBS comedy series "Frank's Place" in which she co-starred with her husband, Tim Reid. She teamed up with Tim again when she starred as Mickie Dennis on "Snoops" for CBS. In 1998-99, she played the bawdy hooker Eartha on Showtime’s “Linc’s” which was created and produced by her husband and shot at New Millennium Studios in Virginia and Paramount Studios. Currently, she reoccurs as Mrs. Hunter on UPN’s “Eve”. With her husband, actor/writer/producer Tim Reid, and two other Virginia businessmen, Reid co-founded and is a principal partner in New Millennium Studios, the first full-service film studio in Virginia. The first of three phases of a 60-acre project including a 15,000 square foot soundstage, a state-of-the-art post production facility and a 25-acre back-lot was completed and opened on July 12, 1997. Reid has served as New Millennium Studios’ COO and Business Affairs principal, helping with designing, building and growing the new company from the ground up to a $7 million facility in six years, including over $1.5 million in revenues in 2001. To date, New Millennium Studios’ founders have produced two feature films, Asunder; and For Real, both of which Ms. Reid served as Executive Producer; a television series, Linc’s; a syndicated television special, American Legacy Television, which has become a Video Collection for Blockbuster, Inc; over 40 commercials; and have hosted numerous television and feature films shot at their facility. Low cost, quality content Creation is the focus of the venture and the ownership and distribution/exploitation of intellectual properties is the goal. Toward that effort, New Millennium Studios has created Obsidian Home Entertainment to distribute film titles both theatrically and in home video/DVD. The new Television division at New Millennium is creating original programming for the new cable network, TV One including the “Cowboys of Color” and “Gospel Challenge” series.
Return to the Source An affirmation of the creative and artistic expression of African American people, "Return to the Source," a musical ensemble, celebrates the history of African American music, from spirituals to freedom songs, from blues to jazz, gospel and today's music including "rap."
Barbara Reynolds Award-winning journalist, nationally syndicated columnist, television news commentator and an ordained minister. She is the author of two books, Jesse Jackson: America's David; and And Still We Rise, a book which includes interviews with fifty Black American role models.
Bari-Ellen Roberts One of America's most courageous African-Americans who has been hailed as a "modern day Rosa Parks," Bari-Ellen Roberts, a former executive with Texaco, made national headlines when she sued the giant oil company for racial discrimination. After a long court battle Texaco agreed to pay Bari-Ellen and fourteen hundred other African-Americans one hundred and seventy six million dollars, which made it the largest discrimination settlement in the United States corporate history. The author of Roberts vs. Texaco: The True Story of Race in Corporate America.
Tara Roberts Hip, young and happening, Tara Roberts is a young African American woman whose personal mission as Lifestyle Editor of Essence magazine is to include the voices, stories and ideas of Black women under 30. Tara's article "Am I The Last Virgin?" was so controversial and generated so much reader feedback that she has compiled and edited a new book entitled,Am I The Last Virgin?: African American Reflections on Sex and Love.
Robin Roberts ABC sports commentator on "Good Morning America" and host of ESPN's Sports Center, Robin Roberts is one of the most versatile commentators in sports. She is also the current host for the Emmy Award winning anthology program, "ABC's Wide World of Sports."
Terrence Roberts Terrence Roberts was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1941. He attended Dunbar Junior High School and Horace Mann High School before enrolling at Little Rock Central High School as a junior in September 1957 as one of the "Little Rock Nine", a group of African American high school students who were the first to integrate the city's racially segregated schools. As a result of the subsequent closing of Little Rock's high schools during the 1958-1959 school year, Roberts completed his senior year at Los Angeles High School in Los Angeles, California. He continued his education at California State University in Los Angeles and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1967. He received his Master's degree in social welfare from the UCLA School of Social Welfare in 1970, and his Ph.D. in psychology from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, in 1976. Roberts joined the Antioch University Los Angeles in 1993 and served as core faculty and co-chair of the Master of Arts in Psychology program, before retiring in 2008. He also runs his private psychology practice in Pasadena, CA. In addition, he is CEO of the management-consulting firm, Terrence J Roberts & Associates. Terrence Roberts was prominently featured on the day Barack Obama was inaugurated as the forty fourth president of the United States of America.
Oscar Robertson A basketball legend, Oscar Robertson was an all-star basketball player for the Cincinnati Royals of the NBA. He is considered one of the greatest basketball players in the history of professional basketball. A motivational speaker and a role model to the youth of America.
Paul Robeson Jr. Paul Robeson Jr., who served as personal aide to his father for more than 20 years, is author of The Undiscovered Paul Robeson: An Artists Journey, 1898-1939 and Paul Robeson Jr. Speaks to America.
Sharon Robinson The daughter of Jackie Robinson, Sharon Robinson is the author of the book, Stealing Home: An Intimate Family Portrait by the Daughter of Jackie Robinson. She is director of educational programming for Major League Baseball where she supervises a program that focuses on urban and women's issues.
David Robinson NBA basketball star, a member of the USA basketball "dream team," and an Olympic gold medal winner.
T. Rodgers Mr. T. Rodgers is a professional consultant, organizer and trainer specializing in violence prevention, human professions and cultural diversity. His mission is to actively promote harmonious and healthy communities that Are supported by principles of social justice. Knowledge and shard economic opportunity, respect for human rights, and a celebration of inclusion. Mr. Rodgers mother left the south side slums of 47th street in Chicago and moved to the west side of Los Angeles known as the jungle. Growing up in this densely populated village Mr. Rodgers admits it wasnt easy. As an adolescent he became embroiled in many gang-related conflicts and his leadership ability helped him develop a chapter of the almighty Black P. Stone Nation. They were500 members strong with five different parks under their control. At one point he was one of the TEN MOST WANTED gang leaders in south central Los Angeles. Mr. Rodgers gang activates caused him to be shot four times and stabbed twice, and the birth of his boy baby. These and other devastating experience forced him to take stock of himself. He began to look hard at how such self destructive and high risk behavior leads many youth to a life of incarceration, punishment, and high injury and death rates. Mr. Rodgers is now at the forefront of efforts to stop the violence and ease tension. He has taken a leadership role in negotiating truces and participating in a number of peace summits in cities across the country. His attempts to end gang violence rely heavily on promoting dialogue and understanding. Mr. Rodgers has poured his heart and soul into reaching out to troubled young men and women around the country, helping them redirect their behavior away from violence toward constructive solutions and actions. My Hope Is To Change The Person. As I Change Myself. This Change Helps Put Anger In Perspecective, And Move Away From Violence. To Support Individuals In Empowering Themselves To Utilize Their Natural Talents In A More Productive Manner To Challenge Many Underlying Factors That Have Created The Conditions That Exacerbate Their Anger he said. Through his work as executive vice president and national spokesperson for the American program Mr. Rodgers helped develop a comprehensive curriculum that is now used nationally. He has facilitated trainings and workshops for members of the California Correctional staff, Peace Officers, school personnel and other agencies in New York, Chicago, Miami, Denver, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Organ.
Julie Chavez Rodriguez The granddaughter of civil and labor rights activist Cesar Chavez, human rights activist and diversity speaker Julie Chavez Rodriguez was introduced to the farm worker movement at an early age. Throughout her life, she has played an active role in the fight for social justice, human rights, and the rights of working people. Chavez Rodriguez is currently the programs director for the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation, where she spearheads the National Youth Leadership Initiative, an effort which addresses academic and civic engagement among today's youth. Julie Chavez Rodriguez has also worked with the state of California on the development and administration of the Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning, and a web based K 12 curriculum on the life and work of Cesar Chavez. Prior to joining for the foundation, she worked with the United Farm Workers on voter registration and community empowerment programs throughout California. Chavez Rodriguez holds a bachelors degree in Latin American studies from the University of California at Berkeley.
Lt. Joe Rogers Lt. Governor of Colorado, Joe Rogers, is one of the youngest and only African American to serve as Governor or Lieutenant Governor in the United States. Affable and engaging, he is an orator who can easily bring a crowd to their feet. Joe Rogers is a dynamic and inspirational speaker who adds depth and substance to today's contemporary issues.
Kivi Rogers Comedian Kivi Rogers was born for the spotlight. He has made guest appearances on many television programs including; "The West Wing", "Dharma and Greg", "Home Improvement", and "Everybody Loves Raymond". He also appeared in the feature film: "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion" with Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino. Kivi showcased at the prestigious HBO/Aspen Comedy Arts Festival after which he landed a development deal with Castle Rock Entertainment to star in his own sitcom. Kivi also performed on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and has appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Kivi has also been nominated Comedian of the Year by the National Association for Campus Activities. In 2007, Kivi was selected to be a member of the CleanGuys of Comedy, an ensemble group led by Dave Coulier (Full House)
Loretta Ross Loretta J. Ross Womens Rights are Human Rights Loretta J. Ross is a founder and the National Coordinator of the SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Health Collective, composed of 70 women of color organizations across the country. She was the Co-Director of the April 25, 2004 National March for Womens Lives in Washington D.C., the largest protest in U.S. history. She is also the co-author of Undivided Right: Women of Color Organizing for Reproductive Justice (2004, South End Press). Ross areas of expertise are reproductive rights, human rights, womens issues, diversity issues, hate groups and bias crimes. Ross is the founder and former Executive Director of the National Center for Human Rights Education (NCHRE), a training and resource center for grassroots activists on using human rights education to address social injustices in the United States. Prior to that, from 1990 to 1995, she served as the national program research director for the Atlanta-based Center for Democratic Renewal (CDR) (formerly the National Anti-Klan Network). CDR is a national, non-profit clearinghouse for information on hate groups and bigoted violence, including the Ku Klux Klan and the neo-Nazi movement. Ross directed specific projects on far right organizations in South Africa and Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazi involvement in anti-abortion violence in the U.S. Rosss involvement in women’s health issues was initiated as a result of a personal triumph. She was one of the first African American women to direct the first rape crisis center in the United States in the 1970s. Womens human rights are of significant concern for Ross because she was sterilized at age 23. Ross was also one of the first black women to win a suit against A.H. Robins, manufacturer of the Dalkon Shield that sterilized thousands of women worldwide. As an advocate for social justice, she has coordinated several conferences that address the reproductive rights movement and violence against Third World women. She co-coordinated the first national conference on Violence Against Third World Women in 1980. From 1985 to 1989, she served as the Director of Women of Color Programs for the National Organization for Women. She also organized a second “first,” a national conference on Women of Color and Reproductive Rights in 1987. She successfully organized women of color delegations for the massive pro-choice marches sponsored by the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1986 and 1989. In 1990, she coordinated the first national conference of African American Women and Reproductive Rights as Program Director for the National Black Women’s Health Project. The year 1989 was marked by the publication of a popular brochure for African American women called “We Remember.” A quarter million copies were distributed in a project she co-coordinated with Donna Brazile, then director of the National Political Congress of Black Women. Ross is co-author, with 3 other writers, of the book Beyond the Politics of Inclusion: Women of Color in the Reproductive Rights Movement (2004, South End Press). She is currently authoring a book on a black women’s activism in the reproductive rights movement called Black Abortion. Other writing projects include editorials for the Progressive Media Project for the Knight-Ridder newspaper chain and she serves as a political analyst for Pacifica News Service and Alternative Radio. Ross has appeared on talk shows such as The Donahue Show, The Charlie Rose Show, CNN, BET Lead Story, and Good Morning America. She has also been featured in Emerge Magazine, Biography Magazine, San Antonio Express News, and the Los Angeles Times. For the last two years, she has also been collecting oral histories of elder feminists of color for archives at Smith College. Ross was invited to testify before the U.S. Congress, the United Nations, and the Food and Drug Administration on women’s health and human rights issues. She served eight years on the Washington D.C. Commission for Women. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Foundation for African American Women, the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, the Committee on Women, Population and the Environment, and SisterLove Women’s AIDS Project. Ross received an honorary Doctorate of Civil Law degree in 2003 from Arca
Patricia Russell-McCloud Human rights activist, attorney and motivational speaker, Patricia Russell-McCloud is recognized as one of the most powerful speakers in America today. Ms. Russell-McCloud has the extraordinary ability to challenge and motivate her listeners into progressive action.
Sonia Sanchez Leading Black poet and playwright, Sonia Sanchez's topics include Revolutionary Black Poetry; Black Art and Culture in America; The Black Women in the Liberation Struggle; and Poetry Readings. She is featured in the book and exhibit "Dream a World, Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America."
Stuart Scott Stuart Scott is one of ESPNs most recognizable and quotable personalities. Hes taken broadcast journalism by storm with his delivery of hardcore sports in formation and insights packaged with urban/hip-hop flavor. The result is his highly entertaining presence on ESPNs Sports Center where he anchors their flagship 11 P.M. broadcast. Additionally, Stuart hosts ESPN Monday Night NFL Countdown, NBA Wednesday and ESPNs reality series Dream Job. Stuart has also been featured in various commercials, music videos and major motion pictures further adding to his cultural iconic status. His speaking engagements are filled with the intellect, charisma and humor that are evident when over a million people watch him every night.
Briana Scurry Star goalie of the U.S. Women's championship soccer team and its only African-American starter.
Bobby Seale With the success of Mario Van Peebles' film Panther, a new generation of film-goers discovered the lives and legacies of the Black Panthers. But until you've heard and seen legendary co-founder Bobby Seale, you still haven't experienced the real story. Co-founder and former chairman of the Black Panther Party, Seale is the last surviving architect of one of the most important movements in American and African-American history. Together with Huey P. Newton, Seale formed the Black Panther Party for Self Defense in 1966. They advocated the right to self-defense and moved to organize a realistic "Power to the People" revolution, putting their lives on the line against institutionalized racism, discrimination and police brutality. They began with only 400 members, but Seale's national membership drive swelled the ranks to over 5,000, in over 40 chapters and branches across America. Taking to the stage with his famous charisma and eloquence, he sheds light on the true birth of the Panthers (which grew from student activism, not the streets), transporting the audience back to the turbulence of the late '60s and early '70s, when the image of young black men with guns was unheard of. "Today, you don't need the guns," charges Bobby. "If you want to observe the police, do it with a camcorder!" Dubbing himself a "revolutionary humanist," Seale also brings the movement full circle, showing how times have changed, and giving a rousing call for a new '90s breed of social and political activism.
Joseph Sebarenzi Joseph Sebarenzi, former head of the Rwanda Parliament, he has endured tragedy most of us cannot fathom. He lost both his parents, seven siblings, and numerous other relatives in the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Yet, years later, as a senior government official in a position to exact revenge, he instead pushed for peace and reconciliation. "Revenge is like adding guilt to victim hood." says Sebarenzi. "It solves nothing. At some point, we have to ignore the past and envision the future." Sebarenzi grew up in Rwanda, and as a child saw glimpses of the tribal violence which years later would engulf his country. In 1994, when Hutu extremists slaughtered more than 800,000 Tutsis, Sebarenzi and his immediate family were safely out of the country, but many of Sebarenzi's extended family were not so lucky. Returning to Rwanda, Sebarenzi rose through the ranks of Parliament, eventually becoming Speaker, third in power only to the country's president. As the leader of parliament, Sebarenzi worked to improve good governance, speaking out for the independence of the legislature and against corruption in the government. Forced to resign, and Informed of a plot to assassinate him, he fled Rwanda and found exile in the United States. He still champions a broad process of restorative justice in Rwanda as the country struggles with the ongoing effects of mass genocide and retaliatory killing among its Hutu and Tutsi people. Sebarenzi teaches conflict resolution at the School for International Training, lectures on his experiences, consults, and works toward his PhD. Sebarenzi has also been an executive for national and international nonprofit organizations and a regular speaker on BBC and Voice of America. He plans to return to Rwanda eventually, and hopes his home country will soon be a safe place for people of all races, creeds and heritages. For his college lectures, Sebarenzi tells his dramatic and historic story, and imparts a message of peace and forgiveness. This unforgettable and emotional program is perfect for International Studies departments, Genocide Programs, African Studies, Multi-Cultural Programs, Peace Groups, Progressive Groups, Christian organizations and keynote lectures. Whatever your group, Joseph Sebarenzi is a man of peace and grace whose message will not soon be forgotten.
Ilyasah Shabazz Ilyasah Shabazz (pronounced ILL-YAH-SAH SHA-BOZZ) leads a life dedicated to four passions: 1) the continued growth and understanding of her Family Legacy; 2) Education; 3) Government, and 4) the enrichment and balance that Entertainment provides for a full life. Following in the footsteps of her parents, Ilyasah Shabazz is working to convey a message of self-empowerment to future generations. She is currently leading a team of individuals to resurrect the Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Education Center at The Audubon, the place of her father’s assassination in 1965. Inspired by her father’s Legacy to appreciate her rich heritage and nurtured by her mother’s unending perseverance and strength, Ilyasah is indeed a compassionate humanitarian. In the field of Education, Ilyasah was led to the post of Assistant Coordinator for the Office of Academic Affairs - City University of New York, where she organized training programs to encourage higher education for inner-city at-risk youth. Her most prized project includes an interactive youth publication entitled, "The Way We Feel." Ilyasah has both tutored and mentored at various academic and lock-up facilities. She holds a Masters of Science degree in Education & Human Resource Development and a Bachelors of Science in Biology. In the area of Government, Ilyasah served on the Executive Youth Board for the City of Mount Vernon, New York and is presently the Director of Cultural Affairs. She further served as an official member of the United States Delegation that accompanied President Bill Clinton on the historic tour of South Africa. Ilyasah has also retraced her father’s footsteps to the Pyramids and Sphinx of Ghizeh in Egypt and explored religious and historical sites in Jordan. Extensive travels to Africa, the "Middle East", Europe, the Caribbean and throughout the United States, inform Ilyasah’s unique brand of teaching about world history and culture. With a diverse career in the Entertainment Industry, Ms. Shabazz believes that entertainment fosters a more balanced and harmonious lifestyle, and can also serve as a powerful tool to reach and teach the young people of the world. She has served as Vice President for SME Entertainment, Director of Operations for KEDAR Entertainment, Coordinator of Promotions & Marketing for Pendulum Records (a Time Warner Division), and Assistant Music Agent for the William Morris Agency. She has had small Acting Roles on ABC Soaps’ All My Children and One Life to Live, and has appeared in Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever. Shabazz also worked for 40 Acres + a Mule Film Works (a Spike Lee company) during the filming of X as an assistant technical advisor and Production Assistant.
Ntozake Shange Ntozake Shange is a African American playwright, performance artist, and writer who is best-known for her Obie Award winning play for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf. She also wrote Betsey Brown, a novel about an African American girl who runs away from home. Among her honors and awards are fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Fund, and a Pushcart Prize.
Al Sharpton Reverend Al Sharpton refashioned Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s strategy on non-violent protest into a tactic of urban civil disobedience. He has led countless marches in support of racial justice and peace and is an outspoken advocate for the victims of racial attacks, police brutality and anti-gay violence.
Joanne Shenandoah Award winning Native American singer, songwriter, entertainer and social activist.
Sherri Shepherd Sherri Shepherd is a comedian and actress and is perhaps best known for her roles on the TV shows Less Than Perfect and Everybody Loves Raymond, as well as her extensive work in television commercials. Shepherd has been chosen as the fifth co-host on ABC's The View.
Leslie Shields An uplifting and motivational speaker and an expert on career advancement and diversity in the workplace, Leslie Shields is the author of Work, Sister, Work: Why Black Women Can't Get Ahead and What They Can Do About It. She lectures on such topics as Career Planning, The Glass/Concrete Ceilings, Surviving and Thriving in the Workplace, Winning at Work, Workplace Diversity, Sexual Harrassment Prevention and Managing Change.
Russell Simmons Recently, Simmons brought his show Def Poetry to Broadway as a live show, earning awards for the youthful and multicultural cast. Simmons, in partnership with a financial institution, released a line of re-loadable Visa debit cards aimed at consumers who would other wise have problems obtaining a checking/debit account. Simmons has consistently made significant contributions to the contemporary civil rights movement and other social justice efforts. His influence aided get out the vote efforts in the 2004 US presidential election. Simmons, a Vegetarian and Vegan, has also spoken out against cruelty in factory farms and slaughterhouses, and has participated in PETA's campaign against Kentucky Fried Chicken. While he speaks out against cruelty to animals, he does market a line of leather goods. Currently, Simmons is working on a project to fight anti-semitism. Some of the people on this project include Beyonce, Leonardo Dicaprio, and Will Smith. In July 2006, Simmons, in addition to other members of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, was named a Goodwill Ambassador of CISRI-ISP, so-called permanent observer mission to the United Nations. According to the press release, Simmons's appointment will help "launch an awareness campaign utilizing hip-hop as a vehicle to address the problems of war, poverty and HIV/AIDS, in support of the UN Millennium Development Goals as well as the CISRI-ISP fight against severe poverty and malnutrition[2] On August 24, 2006, Simmons will be hosting a reception in support of Republican United States Senate candidate from Maryland, Michael Steele.
Devyn Simone Devyn Simone was born on February 6th in 1988 growing up in Kansas City Missouri but now. Devyn Simone was the sole African American and the most entertainment career driven cast member on The Real World Brooklyn. Devyn sent a video of herself online rather than going to an in person casting call after meeting previous Real World cast members hosting a party at her college, The University of South Florida in Tampa Bay. She is often stating, Its easier to get into Heaven than to get with Devyn! Devyn was Miss Missouri Teen 2004 and then won the national title of Miss American Teen 2005. She now has a tea cup yorkie named after her Real World season, Brooklyn. College Lecture Topics Domestic and Sexual Abuse, Female Empowerment, Bringing Your Dreams To Fruition
Carole Simpson Carole Simpson is anchor of "World News Tonight Sunday" and an Emmy Award-winning senior correspondent for ABC News. She reports most frequently on family and social issues for "World News Tonight With Peter Jennings." Her reports have also appeared on "20/20," "Nightline," and other ABC news broadcasts and specials. She is an occasional contributor to "This Week," and she has substituted for Peter Jennings on "World News Tonight." Ms. Simpson joined ABC News from NBC News in 1982. During the 1992 Presidential campaign, Ms. Simpson was moderator of the second Presidential debate in Richmond, Virginia -- the first Presidential debate in history to have a town meeting format. She was one of the reporters on the critically acclaimed documentary, "Black and White America"; and she anchored three hour-long ABC News specials: "The Changing American Family," "Public Schools in Conflict" and "Sex and Violence in Media." In 1990, Ms. Simpson was a member of the "Nightline" team in South Africa. She helped anchor ABC's live coverage of the release of Nelson Mandela from his 27-year imprisonment. While reporting on a victory celebration in Johannesburg, Ms. Simpson was injured during a brief melee between blacks and the South African police. Ms. Simpson has also anchored, live, many major breaking news stories, such as the Persian Gulf War, the Tiananmen Square massacre, the fall of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, and the Clarence Thomas-Anita Hill hearings. Ms. Simpson's first assignment for ABC News included coverage of then-Vice President George Bush. She accompanied him on domestic and foreign trips, and on his 1988 Presidential campaign. At NBC News, she covered the U.S. Congress and hosted a women's public affairs program on Washington's NBC-owned station, WRC-TV. Her television broadcasting career began in Chicago at the NBC owned and operated station, WMAQ-TV, where she was a reporter and weekend anchor. Prior to joining NBC News in 1974, she was a journalism instructor at Northwestern University's Medill School. Ms. Simpson's other broadcasting experience includes serving as a commentator for WTTW, Chicago's public television station, as well as reporting and anchoring at WCFL radio and WBBM Radio, the city's all-news station. Earlier, she spent two years as journalism instructor and director of the information bureau at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. Ms. Simpson is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.A. in journalism. She did graduate work at the University of Iowa. She has received numerous awards for her reporting on social issues, particularly those involving children and families, and for her efforts to improve opportunities for women and minorities in the broadcasting industry. In addition to an Emmy and a duPont-Columbia Award, Ms. Simpson has won the Milestone in Broadcasting award from the National Commission on Working Women, the Turner Broadcasting "Trumpet" Award for Scholastic Achievement, the Leonard Zeidenberg First Amendment Award from the Radio and Television News Director Foundation, the National Organization of Women Legislators National Media Award, was inducted into the University of Iowa Communications Hall of Fame, received the University of Missouri's distinguished journalist award, and a Star award from the American Women in Radio and Television. In 1992, she was named Journalist of the Year by the National Association of Black Journalists. Currently, Ms. Simpson is chair of the ABC News Women's Advisory Board, Vice Chair of the International Women's Media Foundation, a member of the Board of Directors of the National Commission on Working Women, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Radio and Television News Directors Foundation (RTNDF), a member of the National Academy of Sciences' forum on the Future of Children and Families, and a member of the Board of the National Press Foundation.
Sinbad Popular comedian and actor.
Barbara Sizemore Highly respected educator, Barbara Sizemore was the former Superintendent of Schools of the District of Columbia. She addresses such topics as "The Racial Crisis in American Education;" and "Cultural Pluralism in Education."
Rodney Slater Rodney Slater was President Clinton's Secretary of Transportation and prior to that was the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration.
Sherrod Small Born and raised by his mother and two sisters in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York, Sherrod Small is one of the top stand-up comics coming out of New York City today, appearing at clubs and colleges across the nation. With his witty commentary on politics, culture and city life, Small consistently receives rave reviews for keeping audiences entertained with his remarkable comedic talent and improvisation. His comedy has been quoted in The New York Times and on Fox News. Sherrod currently stars on VH1's popular new show Best Week Ever and AMC's FilmFakers and regularly appears as a guest on NBC's Today show, Fox's The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet and Fox News's Red Eye. He recently performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live and previously appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" and NBC's "Showtime at the Apollo", and has written for and performed on Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn". Sherrod also appeared in Jerry Seinfeld's film "Comedian". In the past he has performed on the Emmy Award winning "Chris Rock Show" on HBO and starred in several prominent television commercials, including the well-known Southwest Airlines commercial "Concert". He has also made several appearances in segments on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien". Sherrod has been featured on various television programs such as "Hard Copy" and "20/20" "Comedians Under Cover", as well as on numerous radio shows including "Radio Chick", "The Scott & Sid Morning Show", "Raw... [MORE] Born and raised by his mother and two sisters in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, New York, Sherrod Small is one of the top stand-up comics coming out of New York City today, appearing at clubs and colleges across the nation. With his witty commentary on politics, culture and city life, Small consistently receives rave reviews for keeping audiences entertained with his remarkable comedic talent and improvisation. His comedy has been quoted in The New York Times and on Fox News. Sherrod currently stars on VH1's popular new show "Best Week Ever" and AMC's "FilmFakers" and regularly appears as a guest on NBC's "Today" show, Fox's "The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet" and Fox News's "Red Eye". He recently performed on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and previously appeared on Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" and NBC's "Showtime at the Apollo", and has written for and performed on Comedy Central's "Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn". Sherrod also appeared in Jerry Seinfeld's film "Comedian". In the past he has performed on the Emmy Award winning "Chris Rock Show" on HBO and starred in several prominent television commercials, including the well-known Southwest Airlines commercial "Concert". He has also made several appearances in segments on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien". Sherrod has been featured on various television programs such as "Hard Copy" and "20/20" "Comedians Under Cover", as well as on numerous radio shows including "Radio Chick", "The Scott & Sid Morning Show", "Raw Dog" and "Maxim Radio". Internationally he has participated in the Comedy Caf� European Lucky Strike Tour and The Comedy Factory Tour in Amsterdam, culminating with a featured stand-up spot on The Comedy Factory television show. Sherrod has toured the U.S. entertaining thousands of college students with both the New York Comedy Film Festival Tour and the Burly Bear Network Comedy World College Tour and continues to perform for universities and corporate events across the nation. In 2002 he was selected to perform at the prestigious HBO U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, and starred in the VH-1 pilot "Unhappy Hour" with Dr. Joyce Brothers and "Watercooler" with John Henson.
Tavis Smiley Host of PBSs Tavis Smiley Show and popular voice on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, Tavis Smiley is also the author of six books, including the acclaimed Hard Left: Straight Talk About the Wrongs of the Right and the autobiographical What I know for Sure: My Story of Growing Up in America. He is founder of a non-profit organization whose mission is to encourage, empower, and enlighten black youth, and is a correspondent and regular contributor to ABC News. Smiley discusses current events from a perspective not often heard in the media, and speaks about everything from politics to sports to education and the need for cultural and racial harmony. He also offers insight into some of the unique figures he has interviewed, including Fidel Castro, Pope John Paul II, and the recording artist Prince.
Jada Pinkett Smith Well known actress. Ebony magazine has named her as one of "The 55 Most Beautiful People of the year 2000.
Barbara Smith Barbara Smith is best known for her innovating work as a critic, author, activist and lecturer. She was among the first to define an African American woman's literary tradition and to build Black women's studies and Black Feminism in the U.S. She is also the co-author of Yours in Struggle: Three Feminist Perspestives on Anti-Semitism and Racism. Smith is a general editor of the Reader's Companion to U.S. Women's History. A collection of her essays, The Truth That Never Hurts: Writings on Race Gender, and Freedom was published in 1998.
B. Smith TV personality, restauranteur and author, B. Smith is the host of "B. Smith With Style", a half-hour nationally syndicated television series that is now in its fourth season and currently airs in 207 markets nationwide and 22 countries. In addition to hosting her own show, Barbara has created a new lifestyle magazine entitled B. Smith Style. Smith also the owner of three successful B. Smith Restaurants in New York and Washington D.C. She is the author of B. Smith's Entertaining and Cooking for Friends and B. Smith: Rituals and Celebrations. She was the first African-American woman to grace the cover of Mademoiselle and has appeared on five Essence and Ebony covers.
Kemba Smith Remarkable story of triumph and determination. Smith who was sentenced in 1994 to more than two decades in federal prison on a first-time drug conviction is a single mother, advocate, public speaker, law student and author. When a judge sentenced Smith to prison for alleged involvement in a crack cocaine ring, she was a young college student at Hampton University in Virginia. She fell in with the wrong crowd and became involved with a major figure in a $4 million drug ring. Enduring years of physical and emotional abuse, Smith ended the relationship. But she was sentenced to prison for being closely involved with the man. After serving 6 1/2 years, Smith regained her freedom after President Clinton granted her clemency in December of 2000. Her predicament forced the nation to focus on drug enforcement policies and mandatory sentencing for drug offenses. Smith has since graduated from Virginia Union University and attends law school at Howard University. She started the Kemba Smith Foundation that works to inspire and uplift young people as well as educate them about injustices within the criminal justice system. Smith has spoken at more than 30 colleges and universities. Having already received numerous honors and awards for her activism, she continues to speak on topics that she feels are important to the nation.
Stephen A. Smith Stephen A. Smith of the Philadelphia Inquirer joined ESPN as an NBA analyst in October of 2003. Smith hosts Quite Frankly with Stephen A. Smith, a 60-minute daily dose of sports news, opinions, issues and headlines, which premiered August 1, 2005 and is televised each weekday at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN2. Since April, Smith has also hosted The Stephen A. Smith Show weekdays from 12-2 p.m. on ESPN Radio 1050 in New York City. Additionally, Smith serves as an analyst on the NBA Shootaround pre-game show, update segments and at halftime, as well as between games of Friday night doubleheaders. Smith regularly appears each Tuesday throughout the NBA season on ESPN2s NBA Nation (formerly NBA Fastbreak Tuesday), the unique weekly 90-minute program featuring NBA highlights and analysis along with live cut-ins to games, and he contributes to ESPN2s NBA Fastbreak, a five-night-per-week recap of the NBA generally aired at midnight, as well as SportsCenter and other studio shows and ESPN Radio. Smith has been a sports writer at the Philadelphia Inquirer since 1994. After first serving as a general sports writer, he has covered the 76ers and been the paper’s NBA columnist before becoming a general sports columnist in 2003. Previously, he covered news and sports at the New York Daily News (1993 – 1994) and worked at the Greensboro News and Record (1992 – 1993) and the Winston-Salem Journal (1991 – 1992). Since 1999, he has also been active in television and radio, primarily in Philadelphia, but also on Fox Sports Net, Fox News Channel, Fox Sports Radio and CNN/SI, in addition to appearances on ESPN Radio.
Emmitt Smith Emmitt Smith is a former football player, who played for the Dallas Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals. Smith is a three time Super Bowl champion and the NFL's all time rushing leader, a record formerly held by his childhood hero Walter Payton. He passed Payton in a home game against Seattle on October 27, 2002. He is the only running back to ever have won a Super Bowl championship, the NFL Most Valuable Player award, the NFL rushing crown, and the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player award all in the same season (1993).
Sister Souljah Rapper, organizer, activist, lecturer, and creator of the epic album, "360 Degrees of Power," Sister Souljah has lectured all over the world. In the United States, she has stirred audiences from Harvard to Howard to UCLA. She is the author of No Disrespect.
Akuyoe... Spirit Awakening Akuyoe presents her critically acclaimed one-woman play, "Spirit Awakening" with poetry, monologues and music. In the play, Akuyoe assumes multiple roles representing different perspectives in her life decisions which begins in Africa and concludes in America. It is a search for roots that go far deeper than ancestry. "Spirit Awakening" is Akuyoe's archetypal journey in search for self. Akuyoe can now be seen co-starring in the hit movie, American Pie.
Marianne Camille Spraggins A leading African-American business woman and the first Black female managing director on Wall Street and one of Wall Street's most prominent Black executives, most recently CEO of W. R. Lazard and formerly Managing Director of Smith Barney. Marianne Spraggins is the author of Snow White...and Don't You Forget It: A Survival Guide for the Black Woman in Business.
The God Squad The Reverend Monsignor Thomas J. Hartman and Rabbi Marc A. Gellman, Ph.D., write the syndicated column GOD SQUAD for Tribune Media Services. They also host a daily, half-hour television talk show of the same name that reaches almost 12 million homes in the New York metropolitan area. Father Tom and Rabbi Gellman have authored four books together. Where Does God Live? Questions and Answers for Parents and Children won the 1991 Christopher Award. How Do You Spell God? Answers to the Big Questions from Around the World (with a forward by the Dalai Lama) was made into an HBO animated special and also won the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award. Their third book, Lost and Found, was published in 1999, and Religion for Dummies. Father Tom and Rabbi Gellman were recognized as Newsday's Long Islanders of the Century in the category of Leaders and Activists. Father Tom is president and CEO of the Diocese of Rockville Centre's cable television station, Telecare. In 1970 he received a master of divinity degree from Our Lady of Angels Seminary. He was ordained in 1971 and earned a doctor of ministry from Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley in 1979. In the early 1970s, Father Tom was a parish priest in Seaford, New York. Father Tom has been recognized for his professional and pastoral work with four Emmy Awards, a FOLIO award and numerous "Man of the Year" citations and honorary degrees. Rabbi Marc Gellman is the senior rabbi of Temple Beth Torah in Melville, New York, where he has served since 1981. Rabbi Gellman was the first rabbi appointed to the distribution committee of the UJA Federation and he was chairman of the UJA rabbinical advisory committee. He is founding chairman of the Long Island Rabbinical Advisory Council, and is the recipient of the Tzedaka Award from the UJA Federation, as well as the Rabbinical Leadership Award from the Council of Jewish Federations. Rabbi Gellman is the president of the New York Board of Rabbis and is the recipient of its Moshowitz award for rabbinical excellence. Rabbi Gellman received a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin with a major in Hebrew and Semitic studies in 1969 and completed his studies at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1971. He was ordained in 1972 and was awarded the senior homiletics prize. Rabbi Gellman received a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Northwestern University in 1981. Topics: Inspirational, Attitude, Ethics/Integrity, Life Balance, Religion
Mavis Staples Soul and gospel legend Mavis Staples possesses one of the most recognizable and treasured voices in contemporary music. From her early days sharing lead vocals with her groundbreaking family group, The Staple Singers, to her powerful solo recordings, Mavis Staples is an inspirational force in modern popular culture and music. A 40-year-plus veteran of the music scene - a Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee and one of VH1's '100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll - Staples (both with The Staple Singers and on her own) is responsible for blazing a rhythm & blues trail while never relinquishing her gospel roots. Her voice has influenced artists from Bob Dylan to Prince (who dubbed her "the epitome of soul") and she has appeared with everyone from the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Bill Cosby, Presidents Kennedy, Carter, and Clinton, to Janis Joplin, Pink Floyd, Santana and Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and has recorded with Bob Dylan, Los Lobos, Aretha Franklin, Marty Stuart and many others. Her new CD Have A Little Faith (Alligator), is a stirring collection of uplifting, gospel-rooted songs deeply seated in her faith and spirituality. Produced by Jim Tullio and Staples, the album features the strongest collection of material - both originals and interpretations - Mavis has ever assembled. Have A Little Faith takes listeners deep into the heart of the singer Vibe magazine called "one of pop's most distinctive voices." Of releasing her music on Alligator, known worldwide for its blues releases, Mavis says, "Blues and gospel are cousins. They're very closely related. Both styles of music lift you up from what's keeping you down." Mavis began her career with her family group in 1950. Initially singing locally at churches and appearing on a weekly radio show, the Staples' scored a hit in 1956 with "Uncloudy Day" for the VeeJay label. When Mavis graduated high school in 1957, The Staple Singers took their music on the road. Led by family patriarch Roebuck "Pops" Staples on guitar and including the voices of Mavis and her siblings Cleo, Yvonne, and Pervis, the Staples were called "God's Greatest Hitmakers."
Shelby Steele African American educator and an authority on race relations, Shelby Steele is the author of the highly acclaimed books, The Content of Our Character: A New Vision of Race in America, and A Dream Deferred: The Second Betrayal fo Black Freedom in America.Steele has written widely on race in American society and the consequences of contemporary social programs on race relations. In 2006, Steele received the Bradley Prize for his contributions to the study of race in America. In 2004, he was awarded the National Humanities Medal. In 1991, his work on the documentary Seven Days in Bensonhurst was recognized with an Emmy Award and two awards for television documentary writing the Writer's Guild Award and the San Francisco Film Festival Award. Steele received the National Book Critic's Circle Award in 1990 in the general nonfiction category for his book The Content of Our Character: A New Vision of Race in America. Steele's most recent book is White Guilt: How Blacks and Whites Together Destroyed the Promise of the Civil Rights Era (HarperCollins 2006). He is also the author of A Dream Deferred: The Second Betrayal of Black Freedom in America, in which he argues that too much of what has been done since the Great Society in the name of black rights has far more to do with the moral redemption or self-satisfaction of whites than with any real improvement in the lives of blacks. Steele has written extensively for major publications including the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. He is a contributing editor at Harper's magazine. He has also spoken before hundreds of groups and appeared on national current affairs news programs including Nightline and 60 Minutes. Steele is a member of the National Association of Scholars, the national board of the American Academy for Liberal Education, the University Accreditation Association, and the national board at the Center for the New American Community at the Manhattan Institute.
Mi-Ling Stone Poole After a successful career in the entertainment industry Mi-Ling went back to school and earned her master’s degree in communications from Oklahoma City University. In 2001, she decided to merge her love for journalism with her passion for decorating and began writing two weekly decorating columns; Ask Mi-Ling, and Mi-Ling’s Comfort Zone. These columns are published weekly in newspapers throughout the country and have been translated and published in Spanish. Currently, she writes a weekly decorating column for The Oklahoman in Oklahoma City. Mi-Ling earned the reputation of being funny, entertaining and outspoken during her weekly radio segments, while offering advice and cost saving tips on decorating. She believes that creating a comfortable and livable home is the key to a great design.
Dr. Niara Sudarkasa Dr. Sudarkasa, scholar in residence at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, previously served for nearly 12 years as president of Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. A renowned anthropologist, Dr. Sudarkasa is an authority on the roles of African women, Yoruba trade and migration in West Africa, and African and African‑American family structure. She was an assistant professor at New York University and at the University of Michigan, where she rose to full professor. She also served as associate vice president for academic affairs at Michigan, directed the Center for AfroAmerican and African Studies, and was a research scientist at the Center for Research on Economic Development. A former Senior Fulbright Research Fellow and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, Dr. Sudarkasa has served on 20 state and national boards, including the inaugural USIA Trilateral Task Force on North American Education, linking the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Survival Tools for People of Color Dr. Bertice Berry, talk show host and sociologist, along with Dr. Bernita Berry, professor of sociology, provide survival skills to people of color who live or work in a predominantly white environment. They address issues of covert or overt racism, isolation and hostility. In addition, Bertice and Bernita teach effective recruitment and retention to faculty and/or management to promote multicultural co-existence.
Percy Sutton Influential African American businessman and Chairman of the Board of Inner City Broadcasting Corp., Percy Sutton also served as the President of the Borough of Manhattan.
Lynn Swann Former all-pro wide receiver with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Lynn Swann is now a sportscaster and television football analyst.
Sweet Honey in the Rock Sweet Honey in the Rock, the internationally acclaimed singing group, takes their ever-growing audience through the historic struggle that is the Black African experience. Dressed in flowing African-style robes, the six members of "Sweet Honey," five vocalists and one interpreter for the hearing impaired, create an awesome blend of new voices, changing rhythm, switching leads, slurring, leaping and dancing through octaves.
Sheryl Swoopes Sheryl Swoopes Olympic Gold Medallist & WNBA All-Star Program Title - An Evening With Sheryl Swoopes Inspired by her mother, Louise, who single-handedly raised four children, Sheryl Swoopes’ first basketball memory is “going to nationals with the Little Dribblers team when she was eight years old”. From that point on, Sheryl Swoopes has continued to leave her mark on the game of women’s professional basketball and women’s sports in general. The first woman to have her own Nike shoe named after her, the 2002 season WNBA’s MVP has achieved many respected accolades during her career. Many have noted Ms. Swoopes as “one of the best players ever” in the game of women’s basketball. Ms. Swoopes was also recognized and awarded an ESPY at the 2000 ESPY Awards Show for “Female Professional Basketball Player of the Year”. She has repeatedly been named to the All-WNBA First Team in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2002. Recently Ms. Swoopes was named as the “2002 WNBA Player of the Year” and “2002 Defensive Player of the Year” awards that she also achieved in 2000. As the leading vote getter in All-Star voting in both 1999, 2000 and 2002, Sheryl has also recorded numerous double-doubles in her career. In the 2000 season alone, Ms. Swoopes led the WNBA in regular season scoring with career high 20.7 points per game scoring average and this year led the WNBA in playoff scoring. Outside of her professional career with the WNBA, Ms. Swoopes has been received Gold Medals at both the 1996 and 2000 USA Women’s Olympic team. Sheryl was also a member of the USA Basketball Women’s National Team that played 52 games around the world to prepare for the Olympics. As an integral force in representing the U.S., Sheryl has participated in the 1994 Goodwill Games and 1999 Winter European Tour. Currently Ms. Swoopes is representing the United States overseas, in China, in the 2002 World Championship Games. Sidelined for the 2001-2002 season with a torn ACL injury, Sheryl Swoopes rebounded in the 2002 season with exemplary play and performance earning the recognition of the league’s MVP. Those same levels of dedication, commitment, diligence and perseverance are constants that Sheryl also exhibits in her endeavors away from the basketball court. While Sheryl is honored to have received the distinguished accolades for her on-court presence, she is also proud of her accomplishments off-court as well. Sheryl is dedicated to educating, enhancing and empowering our youth. Her activities in the community have incited her desire to establishing a foundation dedicated to these efforts, the Sheryl Swoopes Foundation for Youth (S.S.F.Y.). This organization, based out of Houston, is designed to not only assist the children of Texas but has an outreach plan that hopes to help children worldwide. Sheryl Swoopes also serves as an Advisory Board Member for M.A.D.D. She has appeared on The Today Show, The Weakest Link and was invited by President George W. Bush to join him for the Opening Ceremonies at the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. A native of Lubbock, Texas, Sheryl attended Texas Tech University. In her spare time Sheryl enjoys spending quality time with her son, playing volleyball, and traveling the country delivering inspirational messages of “…dedication and determination towards success” to audiences of all ages and demographics. Sheryl is a single parent and the proud mother of one five year-old son, Jordan, whom she notes as being her most important achievement in life.
George Takei Best known as Sulu on "Star Trek," Asian-American actor George Takei presents an entertaining inside look at the "Star Trek" phenomenon. Takei began recurring appearances as the announcer for The Howard Stern Show on January 9, 2006, after that show's move to satellite radio. He is currently cast in the TV hit show Heroes as Hiro Nakamura's father Kaito Nakamura.
Aerle Taree She has been characterized as a modern-day Renaissance Woman: Poet, songwriter, vocalist, producer, stylist, public speaker, and entrepreneur all describe the multi-talented, 25-year-old Atlanta-based Aerle Taree. Now, with her most recent venture as the president and founder of Reality Writings, Inc., Taree’s fans can add publisher to that list of accomplishments. Using her own experience as a successful recording artist, Taree is now on the other side of the microphone: as an advocate, coach, and publisher for promising talent in Atlanta.Born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1973, Taree was inspired through the admiration of her mother, a civil rights attorney and poet/writer, and her father, an editorial writer for the city’s newspaper. Their guidance led Taree to an appreciation for intellectual thought, creativity and education, and she spent most of her childhood writing and composing (anything from restaurant jingles to award-winning poetry). She continued her poetic quest while attending Cornell University in New York, where she studied fashion and apparel design. Her writing talent culminated in 1989 when she joined the Grammy award-winning group Arrested Development.It was as a member of that Atlanta-based group that Taree’s writing blossomed, co-writing the hit songs Tennessee and Revolution, (at the request of Spike Lee for Malcolm X: The Movie). During this time, Taree continued her studies at Clark Atlanta University; by the age of 21, she had won two Grammy Awards and a BMI .Taree’s career with Arrested Development gained her nationwide recognition and awards, including MTV Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, Soul Train Awards, and Rolling Stone Critic Poll’s Band of the Year. During this time, Taree also made several feature appearances in magazines videos, albums and television, including Arsenio, BET Teen Summit, and Yo! MTV Raps. She also toured with pop group EnVogue, the Black College Tour, and the Lollapalooza Tour.Following her departure from Arrested Development, Taree continued to grow artistically. She has also started her own multifaceted entertainment company in Atlanta called Reality Writings, Inc., one of the newest members of the MCA Music Publishing family: “I really want to be seen as an artist and as a writer of pop poetry,” she says. “A modern-day Princess of Poetry.”Taree has written her own book of narrative poems entitled PoeTaree: The Jurisprudence of Life, which details an evening in the lives of college students from different social, racial, and class backgrounds. Writer Zona Neale Hurston, activist Angela Davis, and poet Gil Scott Heron have largely influenced her work.Taree has a keen interest in African-American communities; she continues to stay focused with what’s going on and the changes she can make through public speaking and panel appearances. She has spoken at the Athlete’s Village during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, the 1997 National Black Arts Fest, the IAAM Conference in Washington, DC, the North Carolina Black Leadership Caucus, as well as at other colleges and universities across the country. She also participated in the Vibe Magazine Music Conference in 1996 and the Jack the Rapper panel that same year.Today, Taree is involved in The PhD Project (phdproject.com). The organization aims to improve workforce diversity by diversifying business school faculties, and helping those pursuing a business PhD. Taree remains devoted to her personal commitment to promote change and progress in the community through writing and speaking.
Billy Taylor Celebrated jazz musician, Billy Talor appears regularly on CBS' "Sunday Morning with Charles Osgood." Mr. Taylor, a jazz historian as well as a performer, is available for a lecture, a lecture/demonstration or a concert.
Mikki Taylor Popular journalist and motivational speaker, Mikki Taylor is the Beauty Director and Cover Editor of Essence magazine. To think of Mikki Taylor as merely another beauty editor would be as classifying the late Louis Armstrong as just another guy who blew a horn. Her contribution to Essence magazine, the African-American community and the beauty industry is immeasurable. As beauty and cover editor of the nation's premier lifestyle publication targeted to Black women, she has the enormous responsibility of not only reflecting the culture's definition of "beauty" but also of shaping it. Some of Mikki's topics are: Positioning Yourself to Succeed Through the Power of Affirmation; What is This Thing Called Endurance; and Increasing Your Personal Power.
Kristin Clark Taylor White House Director of Media Relations in the Bush administration and the first African American woman in American history to hold that position. A journalist, Kristin Clark Taylor helped create and launch USA Today and was a founding member of the newspaper's Editorial Board. She is the author of her autobiography, The First to Speak: A Woman of Color Inside the White House.
Ephren Taylor Ephren Taylor Mogul Activist An Evening with Ephren Taylor At twenty-three, Ephren Taylor has had more business success then most people have in a lifetime. Already a history maker, Ephren is the youngest African-American CEO of a publicly traded company. His empire oversees over $100 million in assets and growing. A hip hop generation, self-made multi-millionaire, financial engineer, real estate investor, ordained minister, and venture capitalist, Ephren is the CEO of City Capital Corporation and owns three other companies. From Wall Street to South Central, Ephren’s diverse client list includes stock market day traders to Hip Hop icons such as Snoop Dogg. Ephren started his historical journey at the age of twelve by rejecting the misconception that young people are powerless. Like most young men, Ephren enjoyed playing videogames; however, his parents lacked the financial means to purchase them. So young Ephren began making videogames and later formulated a company to house his operation. By the age of sixteen, Ephren owned his second company, which became a multimillion dollar enterprise GoFerretGo.com. This innovative website connected high school and college students with employers. Today, Ephren is still making connections—he connects individuals, corporations, and churches to wealth. Beyond his unprecedented accomplishments in the financial industry and real estate market, Ephren is an ordained minister, an author, and public speaker. In his ministerial duties, Ephren talks about vision driven wealth, maintaining faith, and regularly consults with churches to help them plan and finance projects that further their mission. Ephren has authored five e-books and is currently penning his first bookstore release, which is an autobiography. As a speaker, Ephren connects to audiences with an energetic, humble, and interactive style that inspires audiences to expand their visions and move to action. Recently, Ephren expanded beyond the financial field into the entertainment arena. He currently owns a record label and is working on projects with a number of urban premier entertainers. Additionally, Ephren invest in a number of community redevelopment projects including the Kansas City Historic Jazz District revitalization. A true wealth engineer, Ephren is becoming for the hip hop community what Warren Buffet is for baby boomers, the premier financial expert for a generation.
Susan L Taylor Susan L. Taylor has been the driving force behind one of the most celebrated African American owned business success stories of the past three decades. She is the senior editorial executive at the venerable communications company and writes the popular In the Spirit column each month. She is currently working on her newest book, All about Love: Favorite Selections from in the Spirit on Living Fearlessly