WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, United States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that he will host a gathering of emerging leaders from across the nation to discuss economic empowerment, civic engagement and a political agenda for Black America at the Emerging Leaders: The Evolution of Politics and Empowerment forum on Thursday, September 27, 2007 in Washington, D.C.

The event, which targets young professionals and emerging leaders ages 21 to 40, will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Room 201 of the Washington Convention Center.  

Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), who also serves as Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute says, “I believe that the time is now to provide an opportunity for our emerging leaders to be heard and I will ensure that the issues raised at the town hall are addressed by the candidates at each of the presidential debates hosted by the CBC,” said Thompson.

Other participating CBC members include: Keith Ellison (D-MN), Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL), Laura Richardson (D-CA), Ed Towns (D-NY), and Mel Watt (D-NC).