President Andy Lewter boarded a 3 :00 AM Amtrak train in order to attend the 8 AM summit convened by United States Senator Gillibrand for African American Faith Leaders from the state of New York. Representation included New York City, Westchester County, Rochester and Buffalo and a healthy representation from other parts of the state as well.

The summit was designed to share with clerics the various ways they could partner with the federal government to offer much needed services to communities of color around the Empire State. The day was filled with representation from HUD, Energy, MWBE Certification offices and a variety of other federal agencies that are looking to grow a healthy relationship with the faith community.

Without a doubt the highlight of the day was the amazing series of spoken presentations from the invited guests of Senator Gillibrand that included Rev. Al Sharpton, Senator Corey Booker, Senator Raphael Warnock, Senator Chuck Schumer, Senator Tim Caine and Senate Chaplain Barry Black. At one point it appeared that the summit session had been turned into an ole fashion revival service as the spirit filled the room.

Photos left to right, first row: Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Rev. Al Sharpton and Dr. Adolphus Lacy
Photos left to right bottom row: Senator Corey Booker, Senator Gillebrand and Senator Chuck Shumer

The summit was a one day affair that began at 8 AM with breakfast followed by a series of speeches and panel discussions, lunch and an afternoon of guest speakers and panel discussions. The organization and management of the day was most impressive leaving room for presentations and an ample time for question and answer exchanges.

The day was closed with Senator Gillibrand promising to do what she can to assure that the agenda of the Black Church would be taken into consideration as the 118th session of congress gets underway this year. She further committed to making herself available to meet with local leaders around the state and on Long Island.