Our History of Leadership and Unity

Discover the pivotal history of moments that have shaped the New Jersey Black Issues Convention and the Black Leadership Family Plan.

Our Historical Milestones

Explore the key events that have defined our journey towards Black unity and empowerment.

1981

Introduction of the Black Leadership Family Plan

National Black leaders, including Congressman Walter Fauntroy, introduced the Black Leadership Family Plan to foster Black unity, survival, and progress.

1982

Founding of NJ BIC

Seven visionary leaders established the New Jersey Black Issues Convention to address critical issues and enhance opportunities for the Black community.

1983

First Annual Black Leadership Conference

NJ BIC hosted its inaugural Black Leadership Conference, bringing together leaders from various sectors to discuss and strategize on pressing community issues.

1990

Expansion of Community Programs

NJ BIC expanded its programs to include economic development, education, health, and social services, addressing the evolving needs of the community.

2000

Partnerships with National Agencies

NJ BIC formed strategic partnerships with local, state, and national agencies to enhance its impact on policy and community welfare.

2022

40th Anniversary Celebration

NJ BIC celebrated 40 years of leadership and advocacy, reaffirming its commitment to the Black community and its mission for unity and progress.

About NJ BIC

The Black Leadership Family Plan, introduced by national Black leaders in 1981, by Congressman Walter Fauntroy, District of Columbia representative, is a set of rules for Black Unity, Survival and Progress by which the total Black community and all of its components and individual members can participate in our continual efforts to control our own destiny. The National Black Leadership Roundtable and the Black Leadership Forum were charged with the operational responsibility for implementation of the Plan nationwide. This movement for state Black Leadership Roundtables recalls an earlier day when Frederick Douglass issued a call for state conventions to press for the abolition of slavery and for “Negro Suffrage”. Indeed, state organizations have been part of the strategy for Black empowerment since the earliest days of our presence in this country.

Heeding the call to action, seven individuals took the charge to begin a state Black Leadership Roundtable in New Jersey. These individuals were Rev. Edward A. Allen, Arnold Hamm, Jerome C. Harris, Jr., Margaret Hayes, Kathy L. Spivey, Donald K. Tucker and Earl Williams. In 1982, New Jersey Black Issues Convention was born.

The purpose of New Jersey Black Issues Convention is to present a possible avenue for enhancing opportunities for the ongoing exchange of information among predominantly Black political, religious, social, business, veteran, student, labor, civil rights, academic or professional statewide organizations via a structured network. New Jersey Black Issues Convention was established to discuss critical issues affecting the community; provide a regular exchange of information among the leaders of black organizations statewide; make possible opportunities and resources to meet the changing needs of the community; develop and carry out an action plan that will have impact on policy and practices beneficial to the future welfare of the community it serves; and work in unison with local, state and national agencies that are performing functions to assist in the areas of health, education, economic development, social and job placement (career orientation) needs.

To this day, New Jersey Black Issues Convention is the only operational Black leadership roundtable organization in the United States birthed from the Black Leadership Family Plan. New Jersey Black Issues Convention hosts several events throughout the year, including its Annual Black Legislative Conference and its Annual Black Leadership Conference, which was instituted in its second year of operation.

Our Services

Supporting the Black Community

Policy Advocacy

We work tirelessly to influence policies that impact the Black community, ensuring that our voices are heard at all levels of government.

Educational Programs

Our educational initiatives aim to provide resources and opportunities for lifelong learning and academic success.

Health Initiatives

We offer health screenings, workshops, and resources to promote wellness and address health disparities in our community.

Economic Development

Our programs focus on economic empowerment, providing tools and resources for financial literacy and business development.

Social Services

We connect individuals and families with essential social services, including housing assistance, job placement, and more.

Community Engagement

We foster community engagement through events, volunteer opportunities, and initiatives that bring people together to support common goals.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Be a part of the movement that shapes the future of our community. Participate in the upcoming events hosted by the New Jersey Black Issues Convention and contribute to meaningful change. Your involvement is crucial in driving progress and unity.