The CBC "Message to America" is distributed nationwide to the American Urban Radio Network's (AURN) affiliate stations.

WHO:        Congresswoman Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-MI)

WHEN:      Saturday, June 3, 2006; 12:06 p.m. EST

WHERE:    American Urban Radio Network Affiliate Stations

Congresswoman Kilpatrick is expected to deliver the following remarks:

“Hello.  This is Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick of Michigan. I am pleased to deliver the Message to America on behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus.

“Since our arrival in America, African Americans have fought for justice, equality, and opportunity. The efforts of pioneers like Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and Madame C. J. Walker sparked our desire to achieve more for ourselves and our families. The charisma and commitment of civil rights leaders such as Brother Malcolm, Rosa Parks, and Dr. King ignited our social consciousness and defined a new African American agenda. The determination of trailblazers such as Thurgood Marshall, Shirley Chisholm, and John Johnson led to greater progress for African Americans. Today, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus and other leaders continue to make strides.

“African Americans have left an indelible imprint on every aspect of American society. While much progress has been made, more must be done to ensure that future generations can obtain economic stability, equal justice, and quality education, health care, and housing.

“We must honor our heritage by grooming a new generation of leaders who can carry on the tradition of strengthening our families, our community, and our country.

“Members of the Congressional Black Caucus will help our young people identify and develop their skills and talents. We will guide and support our young leaders by serving as role models and mentors. We will provide them with opportunities to define their leadership agenda and build domestic and international relationships to guarantee their success.

“As co-chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 36^th Annual Legislative Conference, I invite you to support our efforts.

“This year’s event is scheduled to take place from September 6-9 at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. Our theme, “Changing Course, Confronting Crises, and Continuing the Legacy,” is about redirecting our energies to build the power and confidence of our young people, developing solutions to the challenges that we face, and renewing our commitment to provide future generations with a better quality of life.

“We have placed special emphasis on involving young people in this conference.  All CBC Members have invited two young leaders from their districts to join us and work with our Emerging Leaders program.  All sponsors have been asked to bring one young leader between the ages of 21-40 with them to begin dialogue to build the future of African Americans.

“Our young people are our greatest resource. They are filled with ideas, energy, and dreams that must be nurtured and developed. As Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, we offer our experience, ingenuity, and determination to build a better and stronger community. Young leaders, please join us in Washington, DC from September 6-9 for the Annual Legislative Conference.

“This is Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick on behalf of the Congressional Black Caucus. Thank you and God Bless.”