The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, the public policy arm of the Congressional Black Caucus, has announced its Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) will be held September 21-24 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the nation’s capital. The annual event is the largest Black political gathering in the nation and draws elected officials from all levels of government, policy analysts, academicians, media personalities and the general public. This is the 41st year the conference has taken place.

“ALC is recognized as one of the most important gatherings of African-Americans in the nation,” said Elsie L. Scott, president and chief executive officer for CBCF. “Every year, we see regular attendees and new faces at the annual conference ready to join the conversation so that they too can return to their communities and affect change.”

The theme of this year’s conference is iLead/iServe and will focus on the leadership and service and the impact of each on the Black community. The conference will use social media, a town hall meeting, “braintrusts,” and personal networking to encourage discussions among attendees. “We want people across the country and the world to join the conversations and actions to improve our economy, jobs, education, international affairs, environment, health care, intergenerational issues, and legal system,” said Rep. Donald M. Payne of New Jersey and CBCF board chairman. “iLead|iServe is the first step toward civic, community and family engagement.”

Serving as honorary co-chairpersons for the 2011 Annual Legislative Conference will be Rep. Al Green (D-TX) and Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH). In addition to the scheduled workshops, the conference will include a black-tie fundraising awards dinner, an exhibit showcase, book signings and other special events.

The public may register for the event online or in-person beginning September 21 at the Washington Convention Center.