CBCF EMERGING LEADERS SERIES EXPLORE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF WAR IN IRAQ FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS

(Washington, DC) Citing the need for African Americans to stay abreast of the issues surrounding a pending war in the Middle East, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) Emerging Leaders Series hosted a forum called, For the People, By the People?: Examining the Socio-Economic Implications of War for African Americans.

“This gathering offered a view of the current crisis from an African American perspective,” said CBCF President Weldon J. Rougeau. “Panelists had the opportunity to examine how the families and communities of African American servicemen and women have been economically impacted by war in the past and how they may be affected in the future,” he added.

Panelists also discussed the possible socio-economic consequences for African American communities should the U.S. decide to engage in war against Iraq. Other topics included how American businesses abroad may be affected, how a war may affect trade, and what policies are in place or need to be formulated in order to protect individuals from severe economic losses as a result of war activity.

Panelists for this event engaged in thought-provoking discussions and drew the audience into the discussions. Those who presented their points of view included Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX); Dr. William Ellis, an expert on American government issues; Rev. Walter Fauntroy, former Member of Congress and Civil Rights Activist; Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Economist and President/CEO of Last Word Productions, Inc.; and Dr. Ronald Walters, Director of the University of Maryland African American Leadership Institute. Dr. Maya Rockeymoore of the National Urban League Institute for Opportunity and Equality moderated the session.

“The CBCF Emerging Leaders Series engages students, young professionals and emerging leaders in discussions and activities related to current and imminent public policy issues,” said Kelly Owens, Director of the CBCF Leadership Institute for Public Service.

Community activists, policy shapers, elected officials, and political correspondents share their views on legislation and discuss the efforts that must be marshaled in order to ensure that public policy considers and benefits the African American family. Through the CBCF Congressional Internship Program, the Congressional Fellows Program, panel discussions, online exchanges, and other forums, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation delivers a comprehensive, proactive approach to engaging and advancing emerging leaders.