Caribbean-American advocates from across the country (including Red Carpet Shelley!!!) will convene in Washington DC for the 13th Annual DC Caribbean-American Legislative Week, June 21-27. The multi-day event is hosted by the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) to promote civic and political engagement in the Caribbean-American community.
The week, in commemoration of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, events kick off on June 21 with a one-day symposium for faith leaders that discusses the role of religious leaders in the economic and social empowerment of the Caribbean-American community. The symposium brings together leaders from Christian, Jewish, Hindu and Islamic faiths.
This symposium is an important step in ICSs work to engage as many groups as possible in our work to advance the interests of Caribbean-Americans. We welcome the addition of faith leaders who have historically been an essential element to community building at home and in the Diaspora, said Dr. Claire Nelson, founder and president of ICS. Legislative Week presents the perfect opportunity for launching this initiative and introducing ICS new relationship with faith leaders.
On June 22, business executives will participate in a special session with representatives from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (US-PTO) to discuss protecting intellectual property. In the afternoon, officials from the White House will provide briefings on issues related to the Caribbean-American community.
On June 23, advocates will gather on Capitol Hill for the Legislative Forum that is focused this year on health, education and job creation. The day includes Q&A sessions with elected officials, presentations from legislative staff and experts, as well as opportunities for visits to Congressional offices.
The week ends with a youth forum for young professionals and graduate students interested in international development and relations. On June 25, youth will discuss their role in future development of the Caribbean and explore career opportunities in the field.
Over the years, Legislative Week has grown to be the premiere event for those who advocate and work on behalf of Caribbean-Americans and the region. It offers an opportunity for those in our community to be educated and informed about what is taking place in Washington DC and how they can improve their efforts, said Dr. Nelson.
You can register for events using the links below or visiting www.caribbeanamericanmonth.org
June 21 – Faith Leaders Dialogue
June 22 – CEO Breakfast at USPTO (*by invitation only) – Registration closed
June 22 – White House Briefing (*by invitation only) – Registration closed
June 23 – Caribbean American Legislative Forum on Capitol Hill
June 24 – Caribbean American Youth Leadership Forum
June 27 – Diplomacy Conference on US Policy in the Caribbean
Event space is limited.
* The registration is closed for all invitation only events.
