President Biden has revealed the inaugural members of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) within the U.S. Department of State.
These twelve distinguished leaders have made significant contributions to strengthening U.S.-Africa relations and shaping U.S. foreign policy toward Africa.
The council represents the rich diversity of the African diaspora, encompassing African American and African immigrant communities.
President Biden seeks their guidance on enhancing cultural, social, political, and economic connections between African communities and the African diaspora.
The appointed members for the 2023-2025 term of the PAC-ADE are as follows:
- Silvester Scott Beaman of Delaware, Chair
- Mimi E. Alemayehou of Washington, D.C., Member
- Rosalind Brewer of Georgia, Member
- Viola Davis of Rhode Island, Member
- Helene D. Gayle of Georgia, Member
- Patrick Hubert Gaspard of New York, Member
- C.D. Glin of Connecticut, Member
- Osagie Imasogie of Pennsylvania, Member
- Almaz Negash of California, Member
- Chinenye Joy Ogwumike of Texas, Member
- Ham K. Serunjogi of California, Member
- Kevin Young of Washington, D.C., Member
These appointees represent a broad spectrum of expertise and experiences, ensuring comprehensive insights into African diaspora engagement. Their backgrounds span various fields, from politics and philanthropy to sports, entertainment, and business.
The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement is positioned to play a pivotal role in furthering U.S.-Africa relations, fostering collaboration, and driving positive impact across the African continent and in local communities.
Council members will convene regularly, with meetings open to the public, to address issues of mutual interest and concern, offering recommendations and insights for strengthening connections between African communities and the diaspora.
The council’s work will be supported by the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, with the experienced guidance of Executive Director Deniece Laurent-Mantey. Meetings and initiatives will be communicated well in advance to ensure transparency and inclusivity in the engagement process.