Seeking solutions to end to what it calls a “parasitic divisiveness” which is having a devastating social and economic impact on working families, the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI) last week brought together a wide range of labor union members, community leaders, politicians, business executives and celebrities for its annual Education Conference in Detroit. “The Power of Unity…All Workers Matter” was the theme of the conference held August 24-28, 2016 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Hotel in Detroit Michigan.
APRI is a 50- year old labor and social justice organization which advocates on the behalf of African American working men and women across the nation.
More than 500 labor and civil rights activists, including a delegation of youth activists ages 17-25 from across the U.S. took part in a broad range of activities and discussions. “This conference was to inform and train delegates on important issues directly impacting the Black community,” said APRI President Clayola Brown. “We plan to explore the current 2016 Elections and its potential impact on communities as well as to address health, economic and social justice issues,” she added.
Several prominent labor leaders including Clayola Brown, APRI president and Dr. Loretta Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Teachers, United Mineworkers President Cecil Roberts and AFGE President J. David Cox addressed the conferees. Congressman John Conyers led a discussion that included several other members of Congress including Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and Congresswoman Donna Edwards (D-MD) . Other speakers included civil rights activist Barbara Arnwine, Sirius XM Radio Host Joe Madison, American Urban Radio Networks White House Correspondent April Ryan, Melanie Campbell, national convener, Black Women’s Roundtable and actress Erika Alexander (“Living Single”)