Keynote address: “Don’t Push Me ‘Cause I’m Close to the Edge”. Dr. Kendra King Momon addressed 21st century challenges of African Americans and the seeming gaps between theory and practice as related to the tenets of American democracy and justice. King Momon is an Associate Professor of Politics at Oglethorpe University and the Director of the Rich Foundation Urban Program in Atlanta, Georgia. She is author of the book, African American Politics, a cutting-edge examination of minority politics in America. King Momon is a sought-after political thinker and media commentator on political and spiritual leadership, Hip Hop and culture, African American politics, the Black church, and leadership training and development. Panel discussion followed the keynote.
African Amerians are more involved in the U.S. political process than other minority groups-if measured by levels of voter registration and participation in elections. But does this fact translate to real political and economic power nationally and in the state of Rhode Island? By many scholarly accounts, “The Other Glass Ceiling” remains intact for the African American community and barriers still remain.
This forum focused on both the successes and persistent challenges of African Americans within political, cultural, and economic systems. The focus of the opening keynote was the national perspective and an assessment of African American citizenship in the 21st century. Panelists then discussed trends in political participation, business expansion, and cultural inroads for African Americans in Rhode Island.
Moderated by former R.I. State Representative and Deputy Secretary of State Ray Rickman. Panelists included:
- Travis Escobar, Community Engagement Coordinator for Olneyville Housing Corporation and cofounder of Millennial Professional Group of Rhode Island
- Armeather Gibbs, Managing Director of Urban Finance and Business Development at the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and Diversity Implementation Team Coordinator for the Rhode Island Department of Administration
- Ray Hull, R.I. State Representative and Sergeant of the Providence Police Department
- Donald King, Vice President of Fete Music and founder of the former Providence Black Repertory Company
- Lisa Ranglin, Vice President at Bank of America and founding President of the Rhode Island Black Business Association