Since taking office, President Obama signed the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act which will create millions of jobs, increase and extend unemployment insurance, and subsidize health care coverage for nearly five million unemployed Americans. President Obama also challenged all of us that for this new era to be successful, it will require service, sacrifice and faith of all Americans.
Of course, the ongoing struggle for justice has empowered African Americans with a unique understanding of the sacrifice, service, and commitment necessary to overcome adversity during hard times. And historically, Black women have been the glue that held Black families together during turbulent times.
As we celebrate this National Women's Month, understanding the unique and valuable perspective Black women have to offer on issues that confront our community, the National Coalition is proud to launch the NCBCP Black Women's Roundtable ''Whispering Out Loud'' Op-ed Series in partnership with the NNPA Foundation.
The kitchen table conversations will be authored by women from all walks of life and provide insight and analysis on critical issues that impact Black women, placing a special emphasis on what Black women need and expect from the new administration and 111th Congress.
Contributors to the op-ed series are an intergenerational cadre of Black women including: Dr. Dorothy Height, chair and president emerita, National Council of Negro Women; Mrs. Evelyn Lowery, founder, SCLC W.O.M.E.N.; Susan Taylor, editor emeritus, Essence and founder National CARES Mentoring Movement; Dr. Leslie Baskerville, president, NAFEO; Dr. Yvonne Scruggs-Leftwich, senior professor, National Labor College; Ms. Felicia M. Davis, president, Just Environment; Ms. Nicole Lee, president, TransAfrica Forum; and others dedicated to economic justice, equality and equity.
Melanie L. Campbell is the CEO and executive director of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Convener of the Black Women's Roundtable.
