William Michael Cunningham to speak at the 48th Annual Congressional Black Caucus

WASHINGTON - Aug. 18, 2018 - PRLog -- William Michael Cunningham has been invited to serve as a panelist at the "Black Money Matters" session to be held on Thursday, September 13 from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM in Room 140A at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

The panel will be hosted by Congressman Bobby Rush (IL), Deputy Director of Administration and Operations, U.S. House of Representatives. Invited panelists for this session include: Mellody Hobson, John Rogers, Jr., Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Jr., Sheila Johnson, Pat McGrath, Nikitra Bailey and Shonda Rhimes.

As panel organizers noted, "The urgency in addressing this issue cannot be more strongly emphasized as the median black wealth is projected to fall to zero by 2053."

Panel organizers went on to ask "Why is it that black Americans face the brunt of economic inequality far more than other ethnic groups in America? Why is it that, despite the accomplishments that African-Americans have achieved in sports, entertainment, and business, we face the most barriers to socioeconomic stability and growth? How are we the ones without the opportunity to climb the social and financial ladder? Representative Bobby L. Rush will lead a panel of advocates for African-American economic empowerment and discuss the implications of wealth inequality for black Americans."

The CBC ALC Conference annually attracts nearly 10,000 people from across the world and is the only event of its kind in the United States.

"For more than 40 years, the Annual Legislative Conference has provided an extraordinary platform for people — domestic and abroad — to come together and discuss vital issues related to social justice, leadership, economic prosperity, entrepreneurship and much more," said Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, chair, CBCF Board of Directors. "As we continue to grow and expand the conference, we know that we must be unwavering in our approach to have the difficult conversations, elevate debates about the state of Black America, and also define new and innovative solutions."

The impact of civil and social movements over the last 50 years has played a major role in changing the trajectory of American history. This year's ALC theme, "The Dream Still Demands," focuses on the influence and legacy of these moments, while uplifting present-day champions in the fight for racial equality, justice and freedom.

"The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference is among the most important annual gatherings for black Americans, and I am honored to lead its 48th convening with Senator Harris," said ALC co-chair Senator Cory Booker. "The Conference theme, 'The Dream Still Demands,' presents an important opportunity for our community to lead the national dialogue on so many pressing issues, from fixing our broken criminal justice system to creating economic opportunities for communities of color. We have so many urgent challenges that must be addressed, and I'm looking forward to hearing from all of the incredible leaders who will be participating in the conference this September," added Senator Booker.

The Annual Legislative Conference is also a time to network and enjoy connecting with a diverse group of individuals. Networking and special events include the Exhibit Showcase with an on-site employment fair and free health screenings; the Prayer Breakfast; National Town Hall; Gospel Extravaganza; the Annual Celebration of Leadership in the Fine Arts, which honors the contributions of individuals in the performing and visual arts who have influenced our history and inspired generations; and the culminating event, the Phoenix Awards Dinner, which supports the CBCF's mission-critical programs including education, economic development, health and research.

The ALC is the leading policy conference on issues impacting African Americans and the global black community. Lawmakers, celebrities and concerned citizens attend the conference to partake in a plethora of forums on health, education, economic empowerment, the environment, civic engagement and more. The ALC is the largest platform in which the CBCF delivers against its mission to eliminate the disparities in the global black community. To register, visit https://www.eventscribe.com/2018/ALC/