In a historic first, a strong representation of the Delaware Black Caucus – made up of African American elected officials on the state and local levels – gathered at DSU on Feb. 22 to hold a public forum in the Longwood Auditorium in the Bank of America Building.

The Public Forum – co-sponsored by the DSU Young Democrats and the Delaware Black Caucus – was moderated by state Sen. Margaret Rose Henry. Black Caucus panelists included state Rep. James J.J. Johnson, state Rep. Stephanie T. Bolden, state Rep. Dennis P. Williams, State Treasurer Chip Flowers, New Castle County Councilman Jea Street, Wilmington Councilwoman Hanifa Shabazz, Wilmington Councilman Charles Potter., Jr., Wilmington Councilman Eric Robinson, and Wilmington Mayor James M. Baker.

See the below slideshow for photos from the Public Forum and the preceding reception hosted by DSU President Harry L. Williams and his wife Dr. Robin Williams at their home. The slideshow is followed by additional information about the events.

Dr. Harry L. Williams extolled the gathering as an historic event for the DSU campus

"It is significant to have the Delaware Black Caucus on this campus, because it shows the support the University is receiving not only in the community at-large around the state, but also in the black community," Dr. Williams said. "As an HBCU, that is critical."

Following the reception at the President's Residence, the evening public forum began as the panelist discussed a wide range of topics that included education, labor issues, healthcare, incarceration/re-entry, the economy, public safety, crime, and voter registration.

Other Delaware Black Caucus members who attended the Feb. 22 DSU events included state Rep. Donald A. Blakey (also DSU alumnus); from the Wilmington City Council, Councilmen Earnest “Trippi” Congo and Justen Wright; Seaford Councilwoman Pat A. Wright; and former Dover City Council member Rueben Salters.