People of color (e.g. African American, Latinos, Asians, and American Indians), now considered "minorities," by all accounts will soon be the majority in America. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that by 2030, the African American population will grow by 40 percent, the Hispanic American population by 112 percent, and the Asian American population by 127 percent. In this dramatically different multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society, responsibility for accountable and legitimate leadership will rest on the shoulders of an extremely diverse group of Americans - a challenge that will be especially felt by today's young public policy and international affairs professionals of color. Historically, however, people of color have been significantly underrepresented in the formulation, implementation, and interpretation of U.S. domestic and foreign policy at all levels from the State House to the White House.

Dr. Gail Christopher discusses the skills needed to be an effective advocate of change.

At its October 2000 policy conference the COMPAS Project provided participants with a special forum for thoughtful discussion of pressing policy and international affairs issues. Through a series of events attendees throughout the day were provided an opportunity to expand their base of practical skills, knowledge, and tools needed to successfully address the challenges now facing communities of color across the nation. One of the highlights of the day was a special address by Dr. Gail Christopher

-- executive director of the Innovations in Government Program at Harvard University's, Kennedy School of Government. During her address, Dr. Christopher shared her insights on the skills and strategies needed to be an effective advocate for change gained from more than twenty-five years of experience as clinician, administrator, and social change agent. "Power & Influence in Public Policy: Building Multicultural Leadership" featured a diverse array of seasoned policymakers and community leaders including speakers in

Alfonso Wyatt from the Fund for the City of New York stresses
the difficulty of creating and implementing programs and policies
for youth at the COMPAS Conference in New York.

addition to Dr. Christopher throughout the day including: - Alfred Ramirez, National Community - Alfonso Wyatt, Fund for the City of New York - David Brown, National Youth Employment Coalition

- Sherece West, Community Initiatives - Annie E. Casey Foundation

- Fernando Martinez, U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development

- John Sabini, New York City Councilmember

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