February America Club Lecture: “History of Race Relations in U.S.”

Mr. Jackson speaking to an audience of over 120

In honor of Black History month, the U.S. Embassy’s Public Affairs Section and American Club featured U.S. Embassy employee Mr. Clyde J. Jackson as guest speaker for the monthly lecture at the Eritro-German conference hall on February 28 2008.  Mr. Jackson spoke to an audience of over 120 attendees on “The History of Race Relations in the U.S.”

Mr. Jackson began his lecture by explaining the history of eminent black Americans who started the civil rights movement as early as the 18^th century. He said, “The foundations of civil rights movement were laid, and have continued, through the efforts of such individuals as Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. Dubois, Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Thurgood Marshall and Jesse Jackson.” Mr. Jackson spoke about contributions of black Americans in areas of invention, sports, music, film and TV industries, politics and education, commenting on the achievements of distinguished American officials such as Secretaries of State Colin Powell and Dr. Condoleezza Rice. He noted the accomplishments of these individuals have benefited all U.S. citizens by advancing equal opportunities regardless of race or gender, as well as significantly enriching American society through their contributions.

During a lively question and answer period, Mr. Jackson discussed a range of topics posed by the audience. The wide-ranging discussion covered subjects such as Mr. Barack Obama’s campaign to become the Democratic Party nominee for the 2008 Presidential election; how black Americans view Africa; and continuing challenges for black Americans in the 21^st century.

America Club lectures are held once a month in the Eritro-German center. Schedules and topics for lectures are posted under “Upcoming Events” at http://eritrea.usembassy.gov/.