We must also a vision for the future. We must contribute to the representation of people of African descent in various political decision-making processes. We must encourage diversity. We must express visions and carry out policies aimed at creating a society that is inclusive; a society that does not leave people behind, a society that puts the problems of discrimination and prejudice high on the political agenda. We must offer a vision that extends beyond mere categories of humans as the basis of life. We have to maintain the oneness of humanity and constantly demand equal rights and opportunities for all. No one has the right to reduce a person to a mere group identity. No one has the right to deprive people of their unique human dignity. No one has the right to oppress and exploit their fellow human beings. This is why we need to do more to ensure that the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action stay alive and are implemented. It is against this background that the first ever “Black European Summit and transatlantic dialogue on political inclusion” was held in Brussels, Belgium at the European Parliament on April 15th and 16th of this year. The historic 2-day seminar brought together political and intellectual minority leaders from the United States and Europe to exchange information on the role of minority policymakers in developing and supporting policies and initiatives to address racism, discrimination and inequality. Participants included parliamentarians, congressional representatives, local and nationally elected officials, academics, civil society, private sector and the media. The summit was co-hosted by among others Congressman Hastings, MEP Halem Desir and I. It was co-organised by MEPS like Claude Moraes and Glyn Ford. We noted the need for concrete strategies to increase the representation and influence of racial and ethnic minority