CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) will honor
Reverend Al Sharpton with its annual Humanitarian of the Year Award. The
award will be presented at the Opening Plenary Breakfast during NBCSL’s
35^th Annual Legislative Conference in Chicago December 8,
2011.

?It is only fitting that this year?s Humanitarian Award honoree is Rev.
Al Sharpton. Rev. Sharpton has been fearless and unwavering in his stand
for civil rights in this country. Wherever there is suffering or
injustice, Rev. Sharpton is there to do battle on behalf of those who
are disenfranchised and powerless. We are grateful for his lifelong
devotion to the interests of those who cannot speak for themselves,?
stated Rep. Barbara Ballard (KS), President of NBCSL.

Throughout his career, Rev. Sharpton has challenged the American
political establishment to include all people regardless of race,
gender, socio-economic status, or beliefs. In fact, few political
figures have been more visible than Rev. Sharpton in the last two
decades. Rev. Sharpton is a champion for human rights and is passionate
about confronting violations. Rev. Sharpton has also been at the
vanguard of promoting equality and fair treatment of all people. He has
held people accountable for perpetrating negative and racist
stereotypes. In the business world, Rev. Sharpton has been successful in
persuading the private sector to engage in billions of dollars in
contracts with underserved communities and minority businesses. Over the
years, he has led many protests for social justice and has run for
national political office. He remains to this day a spirited and
effective social and political activist.

About the National Black Caucus of State
Legislators

The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) is a membership
association representing over 600 African American state legislators
hailing from 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin
Islands. NBCSL members represent more than 50 million Americans of all
racial backgrounds. NBCSL tracks legislation at all levels of government
and actively monitors state and federal policy initiatives to provide
its members with important information. Each year, NBCSL members pass
resolutions that directly impact federal and state policy. The
organization focuses on U.S. domestic policy and is committed to
policies that positively affect all Americans. Learn more at www.nbcsl.org.