NBJC holds first Atlanta fundraiser

(May 18, 2009) The National Black Justice Coalition reached out to Atlanta supporters to raise $3,000 during its first fundraiser in the metro area.
An evening of song and spoken word filled the ultra chic Mitchell Gold+Bob Williams furniture retailer in Buckhead Thursday as attendees were reminded of the important work NBJC does in promoting the civil rights of Blacks in the LGBT community.
Photographer Lance Helm of Rolling Out magazine captured a few scenes from the evening. The photo to the left features Miko Evans, NBJC Board Director Zandra Conway and NBJC Executive Director H. Alexander Robinson.
Other civic leaders present included: Ebonee Bradford, co-chair of the HRC Atlanta Dinner; community activist Duncan Teague; Atlanta Police Officer Danni Lee Harris and the beautiful and talented vocalist Kia Hamm.
PrideTV caught up with event organizer Zandra Conway to talk about what’s next for the organization.

How did the idea to hold an Atlanta fundraiser come about?
Conway: NBJC wants to build up a strong coalitions with organizations in Atlanta. It is important to join forces to end homophobia, protect LGBT rights, eradicate HIV/AIDS and develop strong connections with politicians, business leaders and educators..

There are two future fundraisers scheduled for July and in the Fall.

What presence will NBJC continue to have in the Atlanta area?
Conway: It is important to establish a strong presence to address the concerns voiced by the community. There is a political organizing arm called NBJC Action that guides lobbying and fundraising efforts on Capitol Hill and in State Legislatures across the country, we want this organizing arm to be visible here in Atlanta. This will require working with established organizations such In the Life Atlanta, ZAMI, Georgia Equality, HRC Atlanta, the Stonewall Democrats Atlanta, and others.

What's next for NBJC?
Conway: Our plan is build strong coalitions by working along side with the local LGBT organizations and straight allies. We will lobby on several social issues and reach out to African-American churches.
Visit www.nbjc.org, for more information.