NAACP and BET Explores the Impact of COVID-19 on African Americans in New Four-Part Virtual Town Hall Series

For media inquires and interview opportunities:

FOR NAACP:

Marc Banks

dbanks@naacpnet.org

For BET:

Luis Defrank

Luis.defrank@bet.net

Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2020) – The NAACP in partnership with BET is hosting a four-part virtual town hall series, "Unmasked: A COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall Series". The first part of the series kicks-off on Wednesday, April 8, at 8 PM ET/ 5 PM PT, and will focus on the health, emotional, economic toll, congressional response and how activists can apply pressure to ensure legislation is equitable. Viewers can participate LIVE via an interactive toll-free conference call that will also be streamed online. To participate via phone dial (866) 757-0756 and to join the conversation on social media follow @NAACP and @BET.

"As the world faces unprecedented times and new realities during this global pandemic, the health and safety of people around the planet, particularly African Americans, are at an unparalleled risk," said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO, NAACP. "The occasion to uplift and educate our community during this pivotal moment charts a pathway forward through uncertain times. The NAACP, in partnership with BET, is committed to rising to meet this moment head-on through this informative four-part series."

"As the devastation from the COVID-19 pandemic mounts, BET is developing partnerships and programs to support our community through this global health and financial crisis," said Scott Mills, president, BET. "We're proud to work with our long-time partner the NAACP on this important town hall series that will provide comprehensive information for African Americans that will empower and help the community move forward during these difficult times."

WHAT: Emergency Virtual Town Hall (Coronavirus: COVID-19)

WHERE: Participant Dial-in: (866) 757 0756

WHEN: Wednesday, April 8, 2020, @ 8 PM ET/ 5 PM PT

WHO

Keith Boykin, journalist, author, and CNN political commentator

Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, NAACP

Scott Mills, President, BET Networks

Oliver Tate Brooks, MD, President, National Medical Association

Congressman Jim Clyburn, Majority Whip, United States House of Representatives

Congresswoman Karen Bass, Chair, Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), United States House of Representatives

Congressman Bennie Thompson, Chair, Committee of Homeland Security, United States House of Representatives

Robert Brace, Spiritual Wellness Coach