This hearing highlighted the racism and discrimination faced by Black Europeans. Witnesses discussed the contributions Blacks have made to Europe and the root causes of this racism and discrimination, particularly the role of the colonial dynamic. Witnesses and Commissioners mentioned the parallel between the United States and discussed how Europe could learn from America’s experiences fighting similar problems.
Members
Hon. Alcee Hastings
Chairman
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Hon. G.K. Butterfield
Commissioner
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Hon. Christopher Smith
Ranking Member
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
Hon. Barbara Lee
Member of Congress
House of Representatives
Hon. Carolyn Kilpatrick
Member of Congress
House of Representatives
Hon. Donald Payne
Member of Congress
House of Representatives
Witnesses
Hon. David Kramer
Executive Branch Commissioner, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
Department of State
Joe Frans
Vice Chair
United Nations Working Group on People of African Descent, and former Swedish Parliamentarian
Gary Younge
British Columnist
The Guardian Newspaper
Dr. Philomena Essed
Commissioner
Antioch University, the Netherlands, Equal Treatment Commission
Dr. Allison Blakely
Author and Historian
Boston University
Dr. Clarence Lusane
International Race Politcs Author
American University
Relevant Issues
Leadership
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