(BLACK PR WIRE)--CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) will honor Reverend Al Sharpton with its annual Humanitarian of the Year Award. The award will be presented at the Opening Plenary Breakfast during NBCSL's 35th Annual Legislative Conference in Chicago December 8, 2011.

“It is only fitting that this year’s Humanitarian Award honoree is Rev. Al Sharpton. Rev. Sharpton has been fearless and unwavering in his stand for civil rights in this country. Wherever there is suffering or injustice, Rev. Sharpton is there to do battle on behalf of those who are disenfranchised and powerless. We are grateful for his lifelong devotion to the interests of those who cannot speak for themselves,” stated Rep. Barbara Ballard (KS), President of NBCSL.

Throughout his career, Rev. Sharpton has challenged the American political establishment to include all people regardless of race, gender, socio-economic status, or beliefs. In fact, few political figures have been more visible than Rev. Sharpton in the last two decades. Rev. Sharpton is a champion for human rights and is passionate about confronting violations. Rev. Sharpton has also been at the vanguard of promoting equality and fair treatment of all people. He has held people accountable for perpetrating negative and racist stereotypes. In the business world, Rev. Sharpton has been successful in persuading the private sector to engage in billions of dollars in contracts with underserved communities and minority businesses. Over the years, he has led many protests for social justice and has run for national political office. He remains to this day a spirited and effective social and political activist.

WHO:
Reverend Al Sharpton
Founder and President of the National Action Network, host of MSNBC’s PoliticsNation, and host of radio talk show, Keepin’ It Real

WHAT:
NBCSL 2011 Humanitarian of the Year Award & Opening Plenary Breakfast

WHEN:
Thursday, December 8, 2011, 8:00am – 10:00am CST

WHERE:
Renaissance Hotel, One West Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, Grand Ballroom, Salon 4-6

About the National Black Caucus of State Legislators

The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) is a membership association representing over 600 African American state legislators hailing from 45 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. NBCSL members represent more than 50 million Americans of all racial backgrounds. NBCSL tracks legislation at all levels of government and actively monitors state and federal policy initiatives to provide its members with important information. Each year, NBCSL members pass resolutions that directly impact federal and state policy. The organization focuses on U.S. domestic policy and is committed to policies that positively affect all Americans. Learn more at www.nbcsl.org.