First Colombia – United States Bilateral summit for Afrodescendant Leaders

From Atlanta, the government Colombia commemorates Afro-Colombian Heritage Month at the inaugural summit for Colombia - United States Bilateral Summit for Afrodescendant Leaders. This event gathers prominent figures in an effort to strengthen ties and promote joint development among Afro-descendant communities in both countries. 

Atlanta, GA (May 15, 2024) - Under the theme, “Connecting the African Diaspora” this pioneering summit organized by the Global Black Economic Forum gathers over 400 political, business and social leaders from both nations to tackle mutual challenges and harness opportunities within the spheres of entrepreneurship, culture, and entertainment, marking a pivotal moment in the collaboration of Black communities from Colombia and the United States.

Set against the historic backdrop of Morehouse College, a beacon of Black excellence and leadership in the United States, representatives, entrepreneurs and community leaders from both countries are participating in panel discussions, roundtables, conversations and working groups to address the most pressing issues facing Black leaders and communities in both countries and forge paths forward. Attendees have the opportunity to experience art and culture through cultural presentations throughout the day.

"The Colombia-U.S. relationship stands as one of the most robust and enduring partnerships in the Western Hemisphere,” said Luis Gilberto Murillo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia. “Addressing issues shared by Afro-descendent communities in both countries is paramount and must take a front seat in our bilateral agenda. Our business, social and political leaders play crucial roles as agents of change in this process. Their leadership is essential to ensure we remain committed to bridging our shared history and challenges, paving the way towards a more equitable future for Afro-descendant peoples across the Americas."

This initiative is the answer to a bilateral, robust, and diverse agenda between leaders from both nations to foster racial equality, promote knowledge-sharing, and create support networks to close the equity and opportunity gaps.