OUR EVENTS

Press Conference

On Saturday, April 10, 2010 MAADD hosted a press conference in Chicago to urge Illinois policymakers to pass HB 6425, the Consumer Choice Act, and make it into law. MAADD founder and co-director, Reverend James Demus III, called HB 6425, “life changing legislation for people living in low income and minority communities” because “with increased broadband investment, Illinois can create unlimited potential for communities struggling with high unemployment, soaring healthcare costs and a lack of access to quality education.” The press conference was held at the headquarters of the Alliance for Community Peace (ACP), an after-school program in the Cabrini Green community in Chicago. Mr. William Lewis, program coordinator for the Alliance for Community Peace and students who participate in ACP’s program spoke about how ACP provides students in underserved communities access to broadband. MAADD was also joined by Ed Lighthall, Northern Regional Vice President for the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce, who spoke about how legislation like HB 6425 will spark infrastructure investment in minority communities. The press conference highlighted the importance of HB 6425 and the positive impact its passage could have on minority communities throughout the state.

2008 Unity in Our Community Awards Banquet

On September 19, 2008, MAADD held its second annual awards banquet, "Unity in Our Community." Cliff Kelley, host of "The Cliff Kelley Show" on WVON-AM, served as Master of Ceremonies and U.S. Representative Danny K. Davis of Illinois' 7th Congressional District was the keynote speaker. The event recognized clergy and government leaders who have provided outstanding contributions in their communities. In addition, the banquet highlighted current opportunities to affect change and unite people and government leaders to bring opportunity, equality and prosperity to underserved and minority communities.