The 2008 Democratic Convention

My Experience at the Convention
Earle Fowlkes
President/CEO
International Federation of Black Pride, Inc.

There are times in one life that can be defined by a moment or a historical event. My attendance at the 2008 Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Denver was one of those times. I was joined by Michael Hinson , board chair of both the International Federation of Black Prides, Inc (IFBP) which is our 501 (c)(3) and the IFBP Fund for Leadership, our 501 (c)(4). We were both privileged to have Special Guest credentials to the Pepsi Center Monday through Wednesday as well as Invesco Field for Senator Obama's Acceptance Speech on Thursday.

The convention experience is much more than the speeches at the Pepsi Center and Invesco Field. There were affinity caucus meetings, receptions and of course parties. I attended the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and Matthew Shephard cocktail receptions on Sunday, and the DNC Convention LGBT Caucus meeting before Michael joined me on Monday afternoon. Over the next few days, we attended the Stonewall Democrats Tea Party, Gill Action Fund reception, GLBT People of Color reception which the IFBP cosponsored with HRC, NBJC and others, the Gill/Miller State Heroes Reception and the Gay and Lesbian Leadership Council Celebration.

While these events provided many networking opportunities, the highpoints were during the evening sessions at the DNC. Michelle Obama's speech on Monday night allowed America to see a posed and intelligent woman who will be a great First Lady. Hillary was just fantastic on Tuesday night and her quoting of Harriett Tubman – ''Keep on Going'' bought the house down. Wednesday night saw President Clinton set the table perfectly for Senator Obama with a stirring endorsement speech. The most exciting moment of the week was Senator Obama's Acceptance Speech in front of 85,000 people and a record 38,000,000 million on television. He electrified the America that night and I was there to witness histoty.