100 Black Men of America, Inc. and The Nevada Democratic Party, along with the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, IMPACTO and the College of Southern Nevada have partnered to hold a Democratic presidential debate in Las Vegas. This marks the second debate held in Las Vegas. Nevada holds the distinction of being the second state in our nation to hold a presidential caucus, and Nevada will be the first state in the west to host early presidential voting. The January 15, 2008 debate will be telecast live by MSNBC and comes just four days before Nevada's January caucus, which is positioned between the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary.
"There are many issues our organization want the candidates to address in the upcoming debate. We are extremely interested to hear perspectives on critical issues impacting the lives of African Americans and Hispanics, which coincide with the areas of focus that impact the 100 Black Men and our 106 chapters," said Albert E. Dotson, Jr. Esq., Chairman, 100 Black Men of America, Inc. "Basic quality of life issues must be discussed such as providing quality education to all students; providing support for programs that reduce the gap in health disparities between Black Americans and other groups; creating economic empowerment programs to help the under employed and the unemployed care for their families and achieve financial independence; and supporting mentoring programs that allow Black children, specifically Black boys, to experience nurturing relationships that activates them to model appropriate social, professional and self-esteem enhancing behaviors."
The 100 Black Men understand the significant role this debate will have on upcoming contests and felt it critical their organization participate and give a voice to so many who remain voiceless. "Creating self-sustaining communities through economic empowerment initiatives, access to quality education, as well as eliminating the health care disparities that negatively impact black and brown people are just a few of the common issues facing African Americans and Hispanics," stated John Hammond, CEO, 100 Black Men of America, Inc. "These issues are nonpartisan and we would also welcome an opportunity to discuss the exact same issues with the Republican candidates."
Chapter presidents from across the nation have been invited to offer questions and attend the debate. Members from the Collegiate 100, the organizations mentoring program for college students, will also be in attendance. The organization is also planning to use the MSNBC live telecast as part of their January mentoring session to educate younger Mentees and to also engage their families on the issues and on becoming actively involved in the political process.
"The 100 continues to believe that men with a pure idea of educating and empowering youth can change a world," said Dotson, "Our reach is far and ever-growing, yet lasting and sustaining. Our services are universal and global, yet locally relevant and specific. With a passion for helping young people and a drive for education, our commitment remains clear and our response unwavering."
The debate will take place at the Cashman Center, located at 850 North Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89101 and will be telecast live from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. The 100 Black Men urges all concerned citizens not attending the debate in person to tune in on January 15, 2008 to view the live broadcast.
About 100 Black Men of America, Inc.
100 Black Men was founded as an organization in New York City in 1963. The national organization, 100 Black Men of America, Inc. began with nine chapters in 1986 as a national alliance of leading African American men of business, industry, public affairs and government with a mission to improve the quality of life for African Americans, particularly African American youth. Today, under the direction of Albert E. Dotson, Jr., the organization has 106 chapters, and growing, in the United States, England and the Caribbean. Members represent a myriad of professions including corporate executives, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, entertainers, elected officials, professional athletes, educators and men from numerous other professions that have created an international coalition focused on creating educational opportunities, promoting economic empowerment, addressing health disparities and creating positive, nurturing mentoring relationships. Visit http://www.100blackmen.org for more information on the programs and initiatives of 100 Black Men of America, Inc.