Event to raise cultural awareness

Following the election of the first black president, the individual men and women of color leadership conferences are joining forces for another first.

The groups are having a joint Men and Women of Color Leadership Conference this weekend, the first time the conferences have been organized together.

This change came about because of budgetary constraints, but the result is timely and progressive, said Eric Love, IU’s director of the Office of Diversity
Education.

“The theme of this year’s national conference is “Bridging the Gap: Building Upon the 2008 Election.”

The conference is open to people of any gender, ethnicity, race, economic or social standing. Organizers expect about 500 people to attend.

It will focus on academic excellence, leadership development, career development and culture and political awareness.

Keynote speakers include Jeff Johnson, a BET correspondent, who interviews a wide range of celebrities.

“The issues discussed are more universal but specifically affect men and women of color,” Love said.