Organic Take Over

Never since the precedented Million Man March have we seen so many African American men united for a common cause. The feeling was that of solidarity and an overwhelming sense of pride. The display of unity was motivating and exceptionally inspiring. Hosted by the Orange County Convention Center the 2011 15th Annual African American Men Health Summit was a major success. There were several vendors on hand and a remarkable guest speaker Michael Cottman, a Journalist and Black America Web Representative. Addressing a community that is being plagued by high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol the message was very clear. With “health is wealth” being the underlying mantra all in attendance exuded consciousness and positivity. Requested and facilitated by Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Be Organic was engulfed in the spirit of Black Awareness, Black Kinship, and Black Accountability. We were able to offer dual edification by feeding minds and bodies our wonderful organic fare. Serving a Vegetarian Meatless Ragout over Couscous Ala Creole accompanied with a lettuce leaflet with ragout stuffing, we made believers out of a lot of men. In addition, an interactive demo with a conversational component gave the men that stopped by the BCBS booth an opportunity to discuss the orders of the day relative to health; get tips about combating or reducing risks of common ailnesses , and talk with the Be Organic founders (Kirk Nelson, Roosevelt Desir, and Andre Walker) about the movement and initiatives we have set in place. Overall it was a successful event and we are looking to attending and being a part of the 16th annual African American Health Summit next year.