Congressional Black Caucus week commenced Monday, bringing a lineup of panels and parties to the District. Among the political types scheduled to appear: Newark Mayor Cory Booker, Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, and first lady Michelle Obama, who will headline the Phoenix Awards Dinner on Saturday night.
Organizers have stayed mum on celebrities expected to attend, though the CBC has previously drawn famous faces from film and sports — Terrence Howard, Gabrielle Union and Dwayne Wade all attended events last year.
Joi-Marie McKenzie, founder of entertainment site the Fab Empire, has been compiling an insider’s guide to the week for three years and says the parties have become important networking receptions for young Washingtonians, particularly African-American professionals. (The Yale Black Alumni Association and Black Public Relations Society of D.C. are among the many groups hosting receptions.)
“It’s one of those special weeks in Washington where young professionals can rub elbows,” she said, whether “you’re looking for a job on the Hill or you’re looking for an Instagram picture with a celebrity.”
