Click here to see more photos from the 37th annual congressional black caucus legislative conference

Washington, D.C., recently played host to one of the most important conferences in the nation. Held at the Washington Convention Center, the 37th annual Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference attracted over 20,000 individuals. The four-day conference recognized the 43 black members of Congress and allowed political and social leaders to propose solutions to the issues that plague the black community. Some of the intriguing panel discussions were "The Language of Hip-Hop: A Way of Life?" with Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-Tex.); "Climate Change: Are We Ready?" with presidential candidate Barack Obama; and "Franchise and Finance: How to Choose and Fund Your Franchise" with Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.). Panelists included Jesse Jackson, Jim Brown, Russell Simmons, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Quincy Jones. "We're using the power of our numbers to make a difference in our community," says Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee. "This conference is a vehicle to bring all of us into the same room to engage in dialogue about creating a better future." - amir shaw

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