Honoring Black Republican Leaders During Black History Month

The RNC began the tradition of the Black Republican Trailblazer Awards Luncheon four years ago with a promise to always host an event during Black History Month to recognize our leaders, activists, and rising stars.

RNC Chairman Reince Priebus has kept that promise. Republicans continue to build new relationships and strengthen old ones as they engage voters across the country in communities of color.

This year’s theme was “Pursuing The Promise.” Honoring Black Republicans who have blazed a path for future leaders, the annual event brought together elected officials, state and county party chairs, supporters, community leaders, students, and local and national media.  

As we honor former HUD Secretary Jackson, an #RNCtrailblazer2016, we draw inspiration for building a better future. pic.twitter.com/juu7IEUqto

— GOP (@GOP) February 4, 2016

​After remarks from Bethune-Cookman University President Edison O. Jackson, RNC Co-Chair Sharon Day kicked off the celebratory program with a welcome to her home state of Florida. 

"I am proud and honored that the RNC has come to my home state of Florida and to the beautiful and historic campus of Bethune-Cookman University for this special event. Bethune-Cookman has always been one of the nation’s flagship historically black universities and we are privileged to be here in honor of our Republican Trailblazers.”

RNC Chairman Reince Priebus later addressed the crowd of more than 200 attendees. He highlighted past Trailblazer honorees – Representative Will Hurd, Representative Mia Love, and Senator Tim Scott, who have done an outstanding job representing their constituents in Congress.

Before them came, Judge Sara J. Harper of Ohio, former Assistant Secretary of Labor Bill Brooks of Michigan, and former Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. Louis W. Sullivan of Georgia, who have all broken barriers and opened doors for generations to come.

He then spoke about this year's theme, "Pursuing the Promise," which focuses on continuing Dr. King's dream of pursuing the promise of equal opportunity for all:  

This year, RNC Chairman Reince Priebus presented the 2016 Trailblazer Award to Alphonso Jackson, former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 2004-2008. Secretary Alphonso Jackson was appointed the 13th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in March 2004. Nominated by President George W. Bush, he was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate based on his strong background in housing and community development and expertise in finance and management.    

As we honored the great work of leaders past and present, we also looked to encourage the next generation of leaders through the Republican Leadership Initiative (RLI). Through RLI, fellows develop the skills, strategies, and smarts needed to become a leader in their community during the 2016 election and beyond. Take a look at Vallerie's story to learn more: 

The celebratory Black History Month program concluded with a benediction and rededication by those in attendance to continue pursuing the promise of equal opportunity for all Americans, regardless of background.

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