Black Women’s Town Hall Convenes Leading Ladies

Photo by Fordham Images

At a time when Town Hall Meetings have been portrayed negatively, the Second Annual National Black Women’s Town Hall Meeting maintains its sisterly spirit with substantive topics, along with a solution and alliance building approach. As the moderator and Founder, I had a bird’s eye view to history being made once again with our theme clearly stating our intention, “Harnessing The Power of Change: Black Women Leading The Way Together.”

Howard University was the backdrop for our cross-generational conversation that included high profile, accomplished women alongside emerging student leaders representing Howard University, Bennett College for Women, Spelman College for Women, Prince George’s Community College, University of Maryland, Coppin State University, University of District of Columbia, Bowie State, University of Phoenix, University of Bridgeport, and Strayer University.

The evening began with my opening remarks followed by a vibrant welcome from Dr. Pamela Whetsel Ribeau, wife of Howard University’s President.  Dr. Charlene Dukes, first female President of Prince George’s Community College, helped me present the first “Emerging Greatness” Award to Shayla Price, Southeastern University Law Center.  I then presented our coveted “Landmark of Greatness” Award for Lifetime Achievement to the incomparable Faye Wattleton, President, Center for the Advancement of Women.  Her acceptance speech was gracious and rousing.  

Tina Tchen, Executive Director, White House Council on Women and Girls, brought her congratulations and reflection on our theme along with the vision for women and girls moving forward.  She also brought with her two colleagues, Karen Richardson, a Howard Alumni, White House Associate Director in Office of Public Engagement and part of ESSENCE Magazine’s October cover story, “The New Black Power,” along with Maggie Chen.   We also recognized Regina Smith, grand niece of Anna Julia Cooper, current USPS Black History Stamp Series.

Our two panels followed with insightful conversation including provocative, sometimes unexpected, comments and questions from the audience.  I was encouraged with the exchange of diverse perspectives, creative ideas, and the willingness to join forces.  We covered leadership, healthcare, domestic violence, self-esteem, mentoring, and more. 

We came away from the experience excited about the possibilities, humbled by the sisterly atmosphere that permeated the evening and a sense of direction moving forward.  Together, young, middle, and wise women were engaged in one of the most important conversations we can have; the one with each other. 

Stay tuned for the 2010 Third Annual National Black Women’s Town Hall Meeting in North Carolina hosted by Bennett College for Women.