Office of Black Affairs www.dced.state.ut.us/blackaffairs
U
tah’s black population contributes to the “rainbow of cultures” in the state. From Utah’s earliest days, blacks have made contributions as educators, politicians, judges, ministers, pastors, lawyers, aerospace engineers, bankers, developers, and many other careers, improving the social and economic vitality of Utah.
Highlights •
Response to community concerns: The Office of Black Affairs has collaborated with other state agencies to represent the interest of black residents living in Utah. The Office of Black Affairs issued 15 community alerts within the black community and two newsletters that circulated among more than 20,000 people. The alerts provide information on job opportunities, public hearings, legislative issues, and other matters. The office continues to upgrade its Web site as another way of keeping the black community informed.
•
Census 2000 campaign: The Office of Black Affairs joined with the Office of Pacific Islander Affairs, Hispanic Affairs, Asian Affairs, the Division of Indian Affairs, and the governor’s office to launch the Census 2000 campaign, resulting in better minority participation in the census count. •
Governor’s Initiative on Families Today: The Office of Black Affairs Advisory Council honored 143 black youths as Governor’s Initiative in Families Today (GIFT) Young Achievers. These young people were chosen from nearly a dozen high schools across the state and were recognized for graduating in June 2000, achieving a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher, exhibiting leadership initiative, athletic ability, or community service.
22
•
Town meetings: Two town meetings were held for the black community in Ogden and Salt Lake City. The Joint Ethnic Work Plan was discussed and concerns of the black community were aired in an open forum.
•
National Summit on Africa: The Office of Black Affairs initiated the formation of a Utah delegation for the National Summit on Africa in February 2000. Seventeen delegates representing academic, business, religious, and community organizations participated in the summit in Washington, D.C. developing a U.S. Policy Plan of Action for Africa.
