U.S. Helsinki Commission to Hold Hearing on the State of (In)visible Black Europe: Race, Rights & Politics

WASHINGTON- Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) and Co-Chairman Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), will hold a hearing:

"The State of (In)visible Black Europe: Race, Rights, & Politics"

Tuesday, April 29 at 10:00 a.m.

B-318 of the Rayburn House Office Building

The hearing will focus on the challenges and opportunities experienced by the more than 5 million members of Europe's Black population amidst reported increase in hate crimes and discrimination, anti-immigration and national identity debates, and growing security concerns. Additionally, the hearing will also examine the impact of anti-discrimination measures as well as diversity initiatives aimed at ensuring and protecting equal rights for a population many do not know exists.

Invited Witnesses include:

Mr. Boris Kodjoe, Afro-German Actor

Mr. Joe Frans, Vice Chair, United Nations Working Group on People of African Descent; former Swedish Parliamentarian

Mr. Gary Younge, British columnist, The Guardian Newspaper

Dr. Allison Blakely, Author and Historian, Boston University

Dr. Philomena Essed, Antioch University; The Netherlands, Equal Treatment Commission

Dr. Clarence Lusane, International Race Politics Author, American University