Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce and Ford Partner to Honor Congressman John Conyers for 50 Years of Advocacy in Social Justice

-- Ford returns as the presenting sponsor of the Michigan Congressional Black Caucus Reception and Motown Live Afterglow, during the 2012 Annual Legislative Conference.

-- Event includes a special tribute to the United States Armed Forces

-- Grammy-nominated R&B singer Eric Benet and celebrity deejay Biz Markie are among the event's highlights.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 -- The Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce (MBCC), Ford Motor Company and a host of other sponsors and strategic partners will team up to present Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI) with the Champion of Justice Award during the Michigan Congressional Black Caucus Reception and Motown Live Afterglow. One of Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Weekend's most sought-after tickets, the event will take place Sept. 21 at The Mead Center for American Theater, Home of the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C. during the CBCF Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), Sept. 19-22.

"It is a privilege to recognize Congressman John Conyers at the Annual Legislative Conference for his 50 years of work in social justice and advocacy which has affected change locally and across the country," said Ken Harris, president and CEO of the MBCC. "We especially applaud Ford Motor Company for its vision and continued commitment to recognize the accomplishments of leaders during this event."

Hosted by political news contributor and host of TV One's "Washington Watch", Roland Martin, the event will include a live performance by Eric Benet and music by Biz-Markie. In addition to Conyers' award, the event will also feature Rep. Hansen Clarke (D-MI), City of Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and President and CEO of the U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce, Ron Busby, Sr. along with, other members of Michigan's Congressional Delegation.

"Ford Motor Company is proud to offer our continued support and return as the presenting sponsor of Michigan CBC Reception and Motown Afterglow," said Pamela Alexander, director of Community Development, Ford Motor Company. "It is an honor to help celebrate Rep. Conyers' achievements and honor our service men and women at this highly anticipated event."

A founding member and dean of the CBC, Rep. Conyers is the second-most senior member of the House and serves as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee. He has served Detroit for 24 consecutive terms and is a well-known civil rights leader.

"It is an honor to be recognized by Ford Motor Company and Michigan Black Chamber of Commerce at this reception," said Rep. Conyers. "With the hard work of the CBCF and my congressional colleagues, as well as the ongoing support of these organizations and my constituents, I am extremely optimistic about Michigan's future."

Ford, a longtime supporter of the military, will also honor several active-duty and veterans with a special award during the event.

Other sponsors of the Michigan event include:
Detroit Ambassador Bridge Company, MGM Grand Detroit, MGM Resorts International, General Motors, Greektown Casino, Real Times Media, Consumer Financial Services Association of America, Clark Hill, PLLC, SET Enterprises, Inc., DTE Energy, The Coca-Cola Company, Blue Cross, Blue Shield of Michigan, AARP, State Farm Insurance, Kellogg Company, Public Affairs Associates, Inc., Covanta Energy, St. John Providence Health System, Federal Mogul, J.P. Morgan Chase, Wayne State University, Physicians Health Plan, Patton Boggs, LLP, Ambassador Magazine, Public Affairs Associates, Inc., IETAN Consulting, and Elite Socialite Events, LLC

More information about tickets for the Michigan CBC Reception and Motown Live Afterglow visit Motown Live or call (202) 594-3151