For years I've watched major African-American events take place in cities all across the country.  The closest many of them have come to Dallas is a layover at DFW.  But next week, the city will host an important discussion that will addresss many of the problems facing our community.

On Thursday February 22, Tavis Smiley will bring his Covenant In Acton Tour to Dallas.  Mr. Smiley and a group of panelist including Dr. Cornell West will be at Friendship-West Baptist Church next Thursday for a town hall meeting. Mr. Smiley recently held his annual State of Black America in Jamestown, Virginia.

There should not be an empty seat in the house for this event.  Because of the city's history of not supporting the Civil Rights Movement (and I mean black folks), many speakers and leaders are reluctant to visit Dallas.  Therefore the public, and especially our youth, miss out on some of the nations foremost African-American thinkers.  I would urge everyone to mark their calendar's and plan to attend.

Friendship-West is located at 2020 Wheatland Road in Dallas.  For more information, call 972-228-5200