Citing Philadelphia’s rich African-American history and diversity, National Urban League (NUL) President and CEO Marc H. Morial and Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter today announced that the city will host the League’s 2013 Annual Conference.
“We are proud that Philadelphia is home to a thriving Urban League affiliate, and our selection to host the 2013 Annual Conference is a very welcome validation of our accomplishments and strategic focus on economic empowerment through public policy advocacy, quality programs and employment opportunities.”
"The NUL is thrilled to bring our largest event to the great city of Philadelphia, where the rich culture and thriving business community is home to one of the Urban League's strongest leadership teams," Morial said. "Our Annual Conference is a powerful showcase of many of America's thought leaders, Fortune 500 companies, entrepreneurial opportunities and the impact of the Urban League movement here and across the nation."
The Conference will take place the last week in July 2013.
"I'm excited to welcome the NUL Annual Conference to the City of Philadelphia for 2013," Mayor Nutter said. "As a center of African-American culture, Philadelphia is proud to host a conference that will draw an impressive cross-section of thought leaders and cultural, political and economic pacesetters to discuss the important policy issues affecting America's urban communities.”
Morial said the outstanding leadership of Patricia A. Coulter, President and CEO of the Urban League of Philadelphia, was instrumental in attracting the conference to the city.
“I’m extremely honored to welcome the Annual Conference to Philadelphia," Coulter said, "We are proud that Philadelphia is home to a thriving Urban League affiliate, and our selection to host the 2013 Annual Conference is a very welcome validation of our accomplishments and strategic focus on economic empowerment through public policy advocacy, quality programs and employment opportunities."
“The Urban League Movement is all about empowering communities and creating opportunity,” Dennis Maple, NUL affiliate board member said. “As we examine ways to create economic opportunity, Philadelphia is eager to contribute to the national discussion.”
Morial expects the four-day event to attract as many as 4,000 registered attendees, and thousands of local community members, drawn to free events such as an Expo Hall featuring hundreds of exhibitors, college fair and an employment fair.
Jack Ferguson, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PCVB) and Ahmeenah Young, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority, both said Philadelphia is excited for the convention to return after thirteen years.
"The PCVB, our Multicultural Affairs Congress, and the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority are proud to once again host the NUL Annual Conference, last here in 1998. We look forward to showcasing our cultural diversity to 4,000 influential leaders, representing more than $8 million in economic impact for the City," Ferguson said.
“Much has changed in Philadelphia since 1998 and we’re excited to showcase the city’s latest additions, including the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Center,” Young said.
The NUL Annual Conference is a national forum for debate and discussion on policy issues and creating solutions to the challenges confronting African Americans and urban communities.
