FROM THE FI RST L ADY
SCLC’s 63rd National Convention By Cathelean Steele, Founder, Justice for Girls, National SCLC Convention Chair
Greetings, it is convention time once again. Dr. Charles Steele Jr, President and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. Chairman of the Board of Directors have been busy this year with the political climate that has affected the voting rights of African Americans throughout these United States. This past year has also been a time to celebrate the many accomplishments of Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr who was and still is a warrior for civil rights. We are elated to announce that on March 3, 2022 – Union Street in Selma, Alabama was renamed in honor of Dr. Bernard LaFayette Jr. COVID 19 prevented us, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and friends from our traditional in person conventions. We are flooding with enthusiasm because we will be able to see you, our supporters in person for the first time in two years. A heartfelt thank you to Bishop Dr. Jack L. Bomar and the staff at Hillside International Truth Center for allowing us to host our breakfast in the King Chapel. “The Right to Vote-The Fight for Justice “is our chosen theme representing the struggles facing African Americans voters since section four and section five of the Voting Right Act was overthrown by the Supreme Court in 2013. Section 4 and section 5 provided” federal oversight of election administration.” President Steele often reminds us that the fight for equality is a continuous battle. The Southern Christian Leadership Conference is continuing the fight and honoring those brave warriors who continue to educate and inspire us to keep the torch of freedom burning. Women have always been a powerful engine of our fight for equality. The Women’s Empowerment Awards Ceremony will recognize a few of these great warriors. The theme “Women Blooming Where They are Planted. Making a Difference at Home and Abroad”. Thanks to our warriors for continuing to educate, inspire and dedicate your time to making this world a better place for the children of the future. I believe that we must never forget the women that support our warriors from behind the scenes. The staff of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) sends our love
SCLC National Magazine/ Spring 2022 Issue
Convention 2022.indd 12
7/5/22 7:56 PM
