So what should be our focus? Well, many within our communities are not able to fully engage in the politics of power or governance, simply because they are involved in the politics of survival: finding shelter, a job, and putting food on the table. So those of us who can be active must be supremely active. It’s not enough that you are good or even brilliant. You must be smart. You must acutely understand your political environment: Where are the pressure points. Where can you get the greatest result with the least amount of effort? Do your research, do your home work. Focus on empowering your community. Governments are forced to engage with a powerful block. If you need to ensure your communities are registered to vote. You, know Dr Martin Luther King had more than a dream he had a plan: step one of that plan was to register to vote African Americans. Engage in focus lobbying, find political allies, those politicians who will speak with you about social and racial justice. Where necessary use the gender discourse to make the case for racial equality. White women understand the framework for gender equality. Swap race for gender and it is difficult for them to disagree. Above all nurture your own representatives. Black representatives that have not been nurtured by the community can do more harm than good. They must be accountable. And finally Brothers and sisters we must embrace this global unity, this solidarity that states you challenge is my challenge. My challenge is your challenge too. Thank you. Simon Woolley Head of Operation Black Vote