“We have an obligation and a responsibility to be investing in our students and our schools. We must make sure that people who have the grades, the desire and the will, but not the money, can still get the best education possible.”
—Barack Obama

 

Overview | Entertainment | Venue | Honorary Host Committee | Event Commitee

Red carpet! Live Entertainment from the Diaspora! Open bar! And a great cause! Join us for The African Diaspora Inaugural Ball—an elegant, black-tie event featuring class, culture, and a great cause. On Sunday, January 18th 2009, the luxurious, brand new, 800-seat Harman Center for the Arts in downtown Washington, DC will be filled with exquisite food, an open bar, and live entertainment by some of the Diaspora’s brightest stars including an all women’s Brazilian drumming group, an energetic East African Dance troupe and a live South African band.
 
Confirmed artists include Grammy-award nominated sultry, singing sensation, LES NUBIANS with a live performance, and a special guest appearance by Grammy Award winner and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, ANGELIQUE KIDJO. In addition, you can expect VIP's from the entertainment, political, humanitarian and business worlds—not to mention red-carpet treatment. This phenomenal event will celebrate the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama and the accomplishments of African diaspora communities in the United States. One of our featured speakers will be Dr. Witney Schneidmn
 
Our theme—“I AM THE CHANGE: Educating, Empowering and Engaging the Next Generation of Leaders,”—highlights the importance of investing in the education and empowerment of the next generation. 100% of proceeds will go to: Angelique Kidjo’s Batonga Foundation, ensuring that the organization is able to continue its outreach to children throughout Africa; and First Book, a nonprofit organization that provides new books to children in low income communities. Log on to www.AD4change.org for regular updates and to find out about sponsorship opportunities.

THE PROGRAM INCLUDES:

• VIP Cocktail Reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres, dessert & open bar
• General Reception heavy hors d'oeuvres, dessert & open bar
• Live Entertainment showcasing local and international performing artists 
• Opening Remarks
• Remarks from Dr. Witney Schneidman, Member of the National Security Policy Working Group, Obama-Biden transition team
• Special Musical Guest Performers
• Sponsor Recognition