[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 117 (Wednesday, July 19, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1464]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                             100 BLACK MEN

                                 ______


                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 19, 1995
  Mr. THOMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 100 Black 
Men of Jackson, MS who hosted the 100 Black Men of America National 
Convention July 10 through 15, 1995 in Jackson, MS. This organization 
is a welcome force in the Jackson community. Members volunteer their 
time and effort to work with economically disadvantaged youths. They 
visit schools, take students to their place of employment and 
entertainment events that introduce them to a segment of life that they 
would not ordinarily get an opportunity to come in contact with. 
Members of the Jackson, MS chapter include college presidents, a 
congressman, businessmen, clergymen, doctors, lawyers, and many other 
professionals.
  The national organization was founded in 1976, and strives to improve 
the quality of life for African-Americans and other minorities. This 
organization, not only defines problems but attacks them head on. 
Through its mentoring program, the organization serves as role models 
for low-income African-American males from single parent households. 
Many of these youths are becoming first generation college students.
  The African-American community is plagued by alarming statistics 
indicating that 50 percent of U.S. black males drop out of high school 
and that, more black males are involved with the criminal justice 
system, either in prison, on probation or parole, than in college. 
These statistics emphasize the need more than ever for the 100 Black 
Men.
  Please join me in saluting the 100 Black Men of Jackson, MS.
  

                          ____________________