Finding my Voice

[View this email in your browser]( Michael’s Motivation In the midst of a life and career defining experience at the Democratic National Committee Convention, I was honored to speak at many exciting opportunities. From six state Delegation Breakfasts to four TV interviews to engaging with leaders from around the nation, the energy was palpable beyond words. But, while the adrenaline is continual, you have to find a way to sustain your voice. Many times, I had to press through the exhaustion or the speeches or the meetings to ensure that I could be heard. In that same spirit, whether you speak at a convention or preach on a Sunday or share an encouraging message, I must commit to Finding My Voice. Yes, physically by drinking some Tea, Hot Water and Lemon as we are running on fumes. But, emotionally, it is essential to ensure that our intent, our character, our vision, our purpose are intertwined in the words chosen and how they are delivered. Whenever you take the stage or approach the mic, lead a meeting or convene a KAIROS CONVERSATION, don't ever let others silence you and be dedicated to FINDING MY VOICE. [RSVP To Volunteer]( [Michael Blake on CNN- DNC Commentary 2024]( [Watch Michael Blake on CNN]( [Watch Michael Blake on The Don Lemon Show Live from the DNC]( Former Democratic National Committee Vice Chair Michael Blake joins the show to talk about the Democratic National Convention and the 2024 presidential race. Daniella and Colin also talk about their favorite moments from the convention and a progressive vision for the future. [Listen Now]( KAIROS Conversation with Dr. David J. Johns The fight for equity, civil rights, and social justice has always been intersectional. This Wednesday, we’re joined by Dr. David J. Johns, CEO & Executive Director of NBJC, who will connect the dots between Bayard Rustin’s legacy, contemporary efforts to ensure every member of the beautifully diverse Black community can thrive, and the Black facts that can help us get there. Dr. David J. Johns Dr. David J. Johns is the chief executive officer and executive director of the [National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC)]( a civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer+, and same-gender loving (LGBTQ+/SGL) people, including people living with HIV/AIDS. Dr. Johns was appointed the first executive director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans by President Barack Obama and served from 2013-2017. Dr. Johns was a senior education policy advisor to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions under the leadership of U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and has served under the leadership of the late U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA). Dr. Johns was a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Fellow in the office of Congressman Charles Rangel (D-NY). Dr. Johns received his Ph.D. in sociology and education policy at Columbia University. Dr. Johns obtained a master’s degree in sociology and education policy at Teachers College, Columbia University, graduating summa cum laude. He graduated with honors from Columbia College, Columbia University in 2004 with a triple major in English, creative writing, and African American studies. Dr. Johns received the Active Advocate Award at BET’s Black and Iconic celebration in 2024. was named to the Out100 list in 2021, the Root100 in both 2013 and 2014, Ebony’s Power 100 in 2015, and received an early career award from Columbia University, Teachers College in 2016. See you Wednesday! Wednesday, August 28 · 1:00pm – 2:00pm EST Video call link: [( Or dial: ‪(US) +1 651-571-1259‬ PIN: ‪460 226 103‬# More phone numbers: [ August 28, 2024, at 6:30 PM ET,  for Part 2 of The King Center ’s Beloved Community Talks series, ‘Voter Education & Responsibility.’ Let’s honor the 61st anniversary of the March On Washington and I Have A Dream speech, and explore how voting drives change. [Watch Here]( [Learn More About Project Freedom]( In addition to headlining performances Adekunle Gold and Patoranking, two of Africa’s biggest musical stars at the world-famous Apollo Theater, The Bridge will also feature: - Performances from across the African diaspora - Remarks by UN Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed - A presidential fireside chat moderated by CNN’s Larry Madowo - A video tribute to late President Geingob of Namibia with remarks by Mrs. Monica Geingos - The launch of the Next Narrative Africa Fund - Presentations by partners sharing their work across Africa and the diaspora [Tickets and Info]( Text “Democracy” to +1 (917) 810-3409. KAIROS: DEMOCRACY PROJECT exists to promote social welfare and civic betterment by mobilizing and engaging Communities of Color and Young Adults through Issue Advocacy and awareness on the impact of safeguarding our Democracy on their everyday lives. From deploying local Influencers and surrogates of Color from the KAIROS Communications war room to hosting KAIROS CONVERSATION Listen & Learns to executing a targeted media and message mobilization, the KAIROS: DEMOCRACY PROJECT will be the go to place for engaging Leaders of Color around Issues and Democracy in the country, not just for one election but for future generations. Join the fight for Democracy by helping us organize voters!: [$50 ⮕]( [$100 ⮕]( [$250 ⮕]( [$500 ⮕]( [$1000 ⮕]( [Other ⮕]( Join KAIROS in partnership with HQ DC House! Kairos is thrilled to announce our partnership with HQ DC House, the only premier social and professional club in Washington, D.C. dedicated to supporting and empowering the Black community. Interested in becoming a member? Click here to start your journey with us. To learn more about HQ DC House and their impactful initiatives, [click here.]( When completing your application, don't forget to respond to the question "How did you hear about us?" by selecting "KAIROS.” Let's make a difference together! [HQ Membership Application]( Stay tuned for more KAIROS Conversation speakers! Save the Dates September 10-24 UN General Assembly New York September 11-15 Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference Washington, DC September 17-18 Congressional Hispanic Caucus Leadership Conference Washington, DC September 23 Africa-America Institute Gala New York September 23-25 Concordia Annual Summit New York October 20-23 NMSDC Annual Conference Atlanta, GA November 9-12 SOMOS Legislative Conference Puerto Rico November 28- Dec 1 National Black Caucus of State Legislators Nashville, TN KAIROS "a time when conditions are right for the accomplishment of a crucial action : the opportune and decisive MOMENT" "The right or critical MOMENT" Join Our KAIROS Community: Text ‘KAIROS’ to 917-983-0800 [Facebook icon]( [Instagram icon]( [Website icon]( [LinkedIn icon]( [YouTube icon]( Copyright (C) 2024 Atlas Strategy Group. All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. 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