communities through civil society activities and other established national institutions. Some are experts on electoral processes or voter engagement. I welcome you all and look forward your contributions. Now, I am pleased to introduce to the Forum participants, the Chairperson of this Second Forum on Minorities and Effective Political Participation. United States Congresswoman Barbara Lee has represented California's 9th Congressional District since 1998. Congresswoman Lee was sworn in as the Chairwoman of the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus on January 6, 2009. The 42-member Congressional Black Caucus is one of the longest standing caucuses in Congress and is often referred to as the “conscience of the Congress” for their willingness to tackle the most serious social and economic issues facing minorities in the United States. As co-chair of the Congressional Out of Poverty Caucus, Congresswoman Lee is committed to eradicating poverty, fostering opportunity and protecting the most vulnerable in American society. Additionally, Congresswoman Lee has been a leader in promoting policies that foster international peace, security and human rights.