proctor - Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc.

SAMUEL DEWITT
PROCTOR
CONFERENCE
2013 – 2015
BIENNIAL REPORT
WITH VISION… BY FAITH… THROUGH ACTION…
Table of Contents
SDPC Organizational Overview
Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor – Spiritual Father SDPC Logo Message From Chairman Message From General Secretary SPDC Our Work Testimonies of Impact 2013 Living The SDPC Moment 2013 National Signature Initiative 2014 Living The SDPC Moment 2014 National Signature Initiative 2015 Envisioning The SDPC Moment 2015 National Signature Initiatives Global Journey for Justice 2013 – 2015 SDPC Conferences SDPC IN ACTION SPDC Vision Keepers Dr. Robert Franklin Rev. Dr. Bernice Powell Jackson Rhoda McKinney – Jones Dr. Henry H. Mitchell Delisa Saunders Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. Rev. Starsky D. Wilson Rev. Dr. Virgil Wood The Disciple Circle SDPC Key Program Partners SDPC Seminary Partners SDPC Board of Trustees SPDC Awards and Honors 2
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Letter from the United Nations / 2014 Community Cross Awards 33
SDPC Addie Wyatt / Bill Lucy Labor and Justice Institute The Beautiful Are Their Feet Awards Investment in SDPC SDPC Revenue Detail – Fiscal Years 2013 & 2014 JOIN The Movement 34
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“It is one thing to know the “is-ness” of things, and even better to know the “ought-ness” of
things, but then comes the “there-fore” of things, where we go and how can we get started.”
2003 – Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference was BORN
Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor
Spiritual Father
T
he late Rev. Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor, Pastor Emeritus of the Abyssinian Baptist Church
of New York City and Professor Emeritus at Rutgers University is the spiritual father of
the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference (SDPC). SDPC was named after him to honor his legacy
of theological scholarship and unprecedented commitment to servant leadership.
Dr. Proctor was President of Virginia Union University, Richmond, VA and North Carolina
A&T State University. He held administrative positions with the Peace Corps in Nigeria and
Washington, DC and the National Council of Churches. He served as Pastor–In–Residence for
the Institute for Child Advocacy at The Children’s Defense Fund / Haley Farm. Dr. Proctor was
awarded honorary doctorate degrees from more than 50 colleges and universities. He was a
prolific writer and preacher, authoring We Have This Ministry, How Shall They Hear?, and The
Substance of Things Hoped For, among other books and articles. Proctor was a consummate
preacher’s preacher. His works and life light the path for SDPC and those who represent and
serve it.
Rev. Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor
1921 – 1997
T h e S a m u el D e W i tt P ro c t o r
C o n f er en c e , I n c . L o g o
The statue of the unnamed Haitian maroon memorializes the
sacrifices, lives and faith of an African people who, in 1791,
initiated a spiritual and military liberation struggle against
the evils of the slave trade in Haiti and the Americas. Their
victory, culminating in 1804, reverberated throughout the
world. It is this symbol of faith and liberation that has been
adopted as the logo of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference.
The symbol represents righteousness in the struggle for justice
and liberation. In one hand the conch shell, like the ram’s horn,
was used by the maroon to call the assembly together and to
signal approaching danger. In the other hand, the sword, like
the word of God, was used to proclaim the righteousness of
the peoples struggle on which all our hope lies.
Relevant then and relevant now, the logo
symbolizes the call to assembly (Joel 2) and the
Spirit of our Living God (Isaiah 61 and Luke 4).
A Message from Our Chairman
In 2013 the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference celebrated a decade of service in the areas of education, advocacy
and activism. As we all reflected on our work since the organization’s inception in 2003, it is evident that our
mission and vision are needed now more than ever.
The critical demand for the work that we do is apparent not only in the United States, but also on a global
level, especially as the needs of under served populations continue to be marginalized. We remain focused on
essential areas of justice related to education, mass incarceration, health and wellness, labor and gender. We
embrace the principals that all people are created equal and deserve basic human rights.
The Samuel Dewitt Proctor Conference is a unique organization that exercises our strong faith and belief in God
to move beyond ministering to our members to connect with like–minded advocates and activists for justice.
We are blessed and so fortunate to have a dynamic and talented leader in Dr. Iva Carruthers whose leadership
and commitment as General Secretary amplify our core mission and values every day. We are also encouraged
by our esteemed Board of Trustees who strategically help to guide and oversee the organization. We are further
inspired with the friendship and support of many other faith–based organizations, churches, non–profit,
corporate and governmental partners who share in our vision and collaborate with us to execute our initiatives.
Of all our blessings, we are most appreciative of your friendship and support without which, we could not
continue the work we do.
While it is indeed important for us to reflect upon our legacy and accomplishments, our primary focus should
be on our future as reflected in Isaiah 43:18–19 when the Lord said 18 “Remember not the former things, nor consider
the things of old.19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the
wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
As our General Secretary shared in her letter, we have much work to do and this work will require all of us and
the next generation to be a voice for those whose interests and cries are being ignored.
Let us embrace the work before us with renewed spirit and enthusiasm as we continue to be a living testimony
to our mission and vision.
Peace,
Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III
SDPC Chairman
Senior Pastor, Friendship West Baptist Church
Dallas, Texas
Message From Our General Secretary
2014 represents the beginning of our next decade as an organization. I clearly remember the spirit and
atmosphere in 2003 when the founders together finalized and incorporated what is today the Samuel DeWitt
Proctor Conference (SDPC). There are three key words that characterize the heart and cornerstone of our
beginning; Faith, Commitment and Determination. We remain faithful to the decision to actualize SDPC and
continue to stand together, committed and determined to position the organization as a stimulus to create
change around critical humanitarian and social justice issues and concerns.
We take pride in the accomplishments we have achieved: United Nations Non-Governmental Organization
(NGO) status, a designation which serves to legitimize our work on a worldwide stage; our work to address
health and wellness disparities in underserved communities; a spotlight on the issue of mass incarceration
highlighted in our Bearing Witness: “A Nation in Chains” report; and our collaboration with others to support
the fight for fair wages.
SDPC has an unwavering commitment to nurturing, sustaining and mobilizing the African American faith
community with a local, national and global alignment. We remain committed to bringing to life the belief of
our namesake, the late great Dr. Samuel DeWitt Proctor, who declared that the church should have a proactive
role in addressing not only the spiritual needs but also the human needs of our brothers and sisters. Throughout
our existence, SDPC has been fortunate to collaborate with partners who share in this mantra.
While we have created tremendous positive impact, we cannot rest on our accomplishments. There is still
serious and challenging work to be done and we are determined to press forward in a SMART way:
Strategic — our efforts will remain strategically guided and focused on SDPC mission and goals.
Measurable — it is important for us to identify what success looks like now and over the next decade,
creating milestones and deliverables that clearly measure progress.
Attainable — with our continued faith, spiritual foundation and committed partners, donors and investors
we know that our short and long–term goals are attainable.
Realistic
— as we move forward we will design new realistic ways to achieve our goals, build resources
and a strong infrastructure.
Timely
— the time is now, while increasing our support and resources, with a renewed sense of passion
and service beyond ourselves and inclusive of the next generation to envision a new paradigm
for the nation and global community.
I am excited about the direction we are headed and am confident that we will make
the necessary modifications for SDPC to continue to thrive and be innovative. Chief
among those is the need for us to attract, recruit and inspire a new generation to join
us in championing the cause. Additionally, critical to our success is the need to
significantly enhance our fundraising efforts to ensure long–term sustainability,
but we can’t do it without YOU. Therefore my appeal is that you join in and
continue your support of SDPC.
Thank you for the love, support, commitment and determination that you have
demonstrated over the years. It is because of you that we are poised to soar to
even greater heights.
With Vision, By Faith, Through Action,
Dr. Iva E. Carruthers
SDPC General Secretary
Chicago, Illinois
SDPC
OUR WORK
Testimonies of Impact
“As an emergent ministry leader, SDPC has been a great place for
me to grow and network and share models of ministry with others.
I have developed life–long friendships at Proctor and it facilitated
my first opportunity for publishing.”
“From my first experience with SDPC I felt I had discovered the
place that most allowed us to be our authentic selves – to take Black
clergy, Christians with a prophetic voice to a place for being in
relationship with one another - pushing boundaries, engaging in
tough questions.”
“I have come to depend on reliable News Flashes from Proctor along
with suggested ways to consider addressing the news.”
“The strength of Proctor is in its interdenominational and justice
networks whose collective action serves and represents the interests
of the African American community and people most marginalized
in this nation and abroad.”
“SDPC looks like a seminary that manifests great possibilities for
much needed new models of theological education, e.g. contextual
learning.”
“The Proctor Conference is a place where you see the transmission
of intergenerational knowledge and models of ministry shared in
an intentional and relevant manner. It values the past and yet
makes room for new possibilities of ministry and solutions to our
most critical issues to emerge.”
“The Proctor experience is unique and indelible. You get an
opportunity to envision, strategize and put feet to the ground with
others who have different training, perspectives and gifts, but who
share the passion for a better world where justice is valued.”
2013 Living The SDPC Moment
EDUCATION
In commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, SDPC collaborated
with award winning film maker, Eugene Jarecki and Charlotte Films, producer
of The House I Live In. SDPC created materials and executed film viewing
outreach strategies, reaching thousands throughout the nation. Efforts resulted
in amazing educational opportunities and guided conversations to over 130 high
schools, reflecting about 15,000 students and over 200 congregations reflecting
some 25,000 persons. SDPC and the producers have an on-going partnership that
continues to be part of the organization’s focus on advocacy.
ADVOCACY
SDPC Bearing Witness
Dr. Iva Carruthers
Congressman Elijah Cummings
Congressman John Scott
ACTIVISM
Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III, Chair of
SDPC, represented the voice of the faith
community in support of low-wage workers
at the official launch of Good Jobs Nation
– a new labor justice organization of low
wage workers fighting for their rights to fair
wages.
Workers and Dr. Haynes were joined by
members of Congress, local elected officials
and community and other faith leaders
in Washington, DC on May 8th 2013 at the
release of major findings from the labor
study completed by the public policy
organization, DEMOS.
2013 National Signature Initiative
50
TH
SDPC LIVING LEGACY
ANNIVERSARY OF THE 1963 MARCH ON WASHINGTON
2013 Living Legacies Teach–Ins
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference launched
a national initiative involving youth and veteran
activists to commemorate the 1963 March on
Washington. SDPC was able to:
• Coordinate strategic partners to
commemorate and institute on–going
youth leadership development training in
civil and human rights.
• Affirm the historic role that the faith
community played and plays in the
evolving movements for global civil and
human rights.
• Afford opportunities for young leaders to
engage seasoned activists to both reflect
upon and chart new ways forward to make
the world a better place for all.
• Provide intergenerational training sessions
to expand the work of corporate diversity
trailblazers, community outreach advocates
and millennial influencers to develop civil
and human rights programs and inclusion
of initiatives that drive action.
2013 OTHER PROGRAM INITIATIVES
• War on Drugs Consultation – American
Baptist College
• Beyond Justice Hearings – Baltimore, MD
• Transatlantic Roundtable on Religion and
Race – Ghana
• Good Jobs Nation - National Campaign
• March on Washington
• Middle East Peace and Palestinian Justice
Consultation - Jimmy Carter Center
• Kairos USA – Colgate Rochester Seminary
• WellPoint Health and Wellness
Partnership
• National Cares Mentoring Movement
Partnership
• New Jim Crow Study Guide – Second
Edition
• WW Kellogg Foundation Consultation
Caux Center for Peace - Caux, Switzerland
2014 Living The SDPC Moment
EDUCATION
THE NATIONAL SUMMIT
ON RACE
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — AUGUST 5 – 8, 2014
WWW.RACESUMMIT.ORG
Over 100 leading scholars, activists, professionals, faith
leaders and youth from across the country gathered at
the National Summit on Race in Chicago, Illinois, August
5-8. SDPC served as the convening sponsor to create an
environment that stimulated dialogue and collaboration
on a variety of socio–economic and political issues,
including a discussion on how structural and systemic
racism cuts across all areas of society. The Summit was
modeled after and in memory and recognition of the
Negro Convention Movement of the 1800s and the Pan
Africanist Movement of the 1900s.
ADVOCACY
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference advocates on behalf of many
low–income families, communities of color, and Wal–Mart consumers
experiencing the consequences of lobbying activities which can
destabilize American families and communities through support for
legislation that limits or disenfranchises voters, dismantles public
education, and legalizes unfair criminal justice policies.
SDPC General Secretary, Dr. Iva Carruthers presented at the
2014 Wal–Mart Shareholders Meeting on behalf of Zevin Asset
Management and the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes. Dr.
Carruthers presented Proposal #6, which asked Wal–Mart to provide
a report on its lobbying expenditures, including indirect funding of
lobbying through trade associations and organizations that write
model legislation. “This proposal is not about limiting lobbying. It is
about transparency and accountability.”
ACTIVISM
In response to the murder of Michael Brown, The Samuel DeWitt Proctor
Conference, in conjunction with Spirit House Project, Eden Theological
Seminary, Christ the King United Church of Christ, and others sponsored
a Preach-In and Teach-In Tent Revival for Social Justice. The activism
supported on–the–ground mobilization of the community towards
freedom and justice for black families and individuals in Ferguson,
Missouri and those who are being victimized by similar injustices in
America. The journey brought together students, activists and other
leaders from around the country.
2014 National Signature Initiative
SDPC LIVING LEGACY
BEARING WITNESS: A NATION IN CHAINS
In its ongoing work to secure social justice
for those most marginalized in our society,
SDPC conducted a series of nine statewide
hearings on the issue of mass incarceration
over the course of 15 months (Alabama,
Florida,
Georgia,
Illinois,
Louisiana,
Michigan, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia). SDPC
sought out lawmakers, social workers, health
care providers, attorneys, heads of non–
profits, students, theologians, children of
incarcerated and ex–offenders, to give life and
definition to an issue which, unfortunately,
far too many individuals in this nation
simply feel they can ignore.
The findings from the hearings showed that
the system of mass incarceration in the U.S.
is replete with human rights violations by
standards of the U.S. Constitution and the
United Nations international standards of
conduct. These standards speak specifically
to protection from unjust punishment, torture
and the basic human rights that should be
respected, even while imprisoned.
In response to what SDPC heard and
knows, the faith community can do no less
than embrace and propel a human rights
framework in its witness around these issues.
2014 OTHER PROGRAM INITIATIVES
• Daniel Beaty – Speak to The Heart Movement
• Georgetown University Labor Center - Black
Worker Consultation
• Kairos USA/Colgate Rochester Crozer
Divinity School Partnership
• Sojourners Summit Sponsorship and
Consultation
• Interfaith Organizing Initiative National
Consultation on Mass Incarceration
• National Council of Churches – Unity
Gathering Consultation
• Transatlantic Roundtable on Religion and
Race – South Africa
• Bread for The World – Program Partnership
• Center for Community Change – Program
Partnership
• Institute of the Black World/CARICOM –
Forum Co-convening
• 10,000 Woman Free Her Rally Partnership
• Ferguson, Missouri Preach-In and Teach-In
2015 Envisioning The SDPC Moment
EDUCATION
In 2014, SDPC in partnership with WellPoint, began a special health and wellness
initiative to focus and create a communication outreach tool to ENGAGE,
EDUCATE and EMPOWER the SDPC church network to build successful
health and wellness ministries and programs for their congregations. The
newsletter, SDPC Living Well – Faith Factor, provides monthly supportive
resources that educate constituents on best practices, policy and critical health
issues facing leadership, congregations and communities. SDPC’s goal is to
offer the newsletter as a consistent call-to-action that challenges everyone to
stretch and grow their mind, body and spirit for holistic health.
ADVOCACY
The Kairos Congregations: African American Churches & Palestinian
Liberation Project is a collaborative endeavor, jointly spearheaded by the
SDPC and Kairos USA, intended to mobilize black faith communities
around Palestinian justice and Middle East peace. The primary goal of
the project is to bring African American churches more fully into the
movement for justice and peace through partnerships for education,
theological reflection, and collective action.
The project’s curriculum will engage congregations in the study of
the Palestinian Freedom Struggle, current events in the Middle East
and Biblical history, drawing theological, sociological and experiential
connections with Black American life.
ACTIVISM
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are
destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
— Proverbs 31:8–9 (NIV)
SDPC created a national WE VOTE litany of remembrance, responsibility
and reclamation. This liturgical engagement focused on the historical
cries and voices of the thousands of hopeful voters who were thrown
off their land, beaten with clubs, bitten by attack dogs, burned on buses,
jailed and murdered; and, saw their homes and churches bombed and
burned to the ground. The litany encouraged the people to remain
faithful to God and to cast their vote, while getting others to do the same.
2015 National Signature Initiatives
SDPC LIVING LEGACY
SDPC 2015 AND BEYOND
SDPC Organizational Expansion
Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference has prioritized
the development and organizing of local affiliates to
deepen our capacity for community transformation.
Cities under consideration include: Nashville,
Winston-Salem, Tuskegee, Los Angeles, Oakland,
Atlanta, Washington DC, Baltimore, St. Louis,
and Norfolk. Issues to be addressed include
mass incarceration, GOTV, ancillary educational
programming and community enterprise development.
Anti-Gun Violence and Moral Injury
“If we must die, let us die fighting back with wisdom,
purpose and the full armor of God. Faith without action is
dead!” — Dr. Iva Carruthers
Mobilizing the Faith Community
to Bear Witness against
Violence and Injury to the Soul
WITH VISION.....BY FAITH......THROUGH ACTION!
SDPC has begun to address the moral injury being
experienced, particularly by African American youth,
in the face of gun violence. Despite any arguments
to the contrary, we believe the unwarranted horrific
incidences of police killings of black adolescents,
along with unwarranted national gun violence, must
be confronted in safe spaces where young people
can be allowed to discuss what they have seen, heard
and how they feel.
Global Journey for Justice 2013–2015 SDPC Conference
2013
2015
“Whoever believes in me, as the scripture
has said, out of their heart will flow
rivers of living water.”
— John 7:38 (ESV)
2014
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for
the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge
fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
— Proverbs 31:8–9 (NIV)
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves
closely so that you do not forget the
things your eyes have seen or let them
fade from your heart as long as you live.
Teach them to your children and to their
children after them.”
— Deuteronomy 4:9
SDPC IN ACTION
SDPC
VISION KEEPERS
SDPC VISION KEEPERS
Vision Keeper
[vizh–uhn] – the act or power of anticipating that which will
or may come to be: prophetic vision or the ability
or an instance of great perception, esp of future
developments
[kee–per] – a person charged with responsibility for the
preservation and conservation of something valuable.
The initiatives work of the SDPC would not be possible
without the generous support from our partners, investors
and contributors. They are the Vision Keepers of our legacy
and mission.
Your on–going annual support continues to strengthen and
broaden the impact of vital SDPC programs and initiatives
for the local, national anad global communities we serve.
Your vision and partnership are invaluable. We thank you
for being part of the SDPC movement.
I support SDPC…
“The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference is an important ecumenical
organization that represents the leading edge of the social gospel in the black
community.”
— Dr. Robert Franklin
Director, Department of Religion for
the Chautauqua Institution
Chautauqua, New York
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference is an important ecumenical organization that represents the leading
edge of the social gospel in the black community. The organization fills a critical void and delivers a compelling
call to serve, beginning with the courageous leadership of Dr. Iva Carruthers and the prophetic inspiration of
Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright.
I believe there are at least four pivotal reasons that make SDPC’s existence indispensable:
1. Ecumenical character
2. High intellectual standard for social ministry
3. Policy focus ensuring that we address issues that matter to our communities
4. Big tent character makes it a safe place for ‘nonconformist daughters and sons of God’ while making it
appealing for younger people and seminarians
I began my engagement with SDPC at its inception and served on the governing board and as a conference
presenter. I had the opportunity to bring the Annie Casey Foundation to SDPC as an opportunity to explore
and invest in seminars around the subject matter of healthy relationships in black communities and families.
I look forward to continuing to serve as a supporter and advocate of SDPC throughout the philanthropic
community and as a conference attendee and presenter.
I support SDPC…
“I believe that the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference stands just as Esther
did, as the important voice of progressive African clergy and lay leaders
speaking out today for the people, for such a time as this.”
— Rev Dr. Bernice Powell Jackson
Former President, North American
Region World Council of Churches
Pastor, First United Church of Tampa
Tampa, Florida
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your
father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
— Esther 4:14 (NIV)
Esther 4:14 tells us that an evil plot to destroy the Jews by King Xerxes had been uncovered. Up until this time,
Queen Esther had kept her Jewish heritage a secret from King Xerxes. Mordecai encourages her to go into the
king’s presence and beg for mercy on behalf of the Jews. Esther believed that God had prepared her for this very
moment in history as a vessel of deliverance for her people, as she was about to risk her life to request to see
the king. Through her courageous intervention and willingness to face death, the people’s lives were spared.
I believe that Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference stands just as Esther did. SDPC is an important voice of
progressive African clergy and lay leaders speaking out today for the people, for such a time as this.
It is evident based on my experience that the work of SDPC spans beyond being a voice of hope; it serves as an
organization which is a force to be reckoned with, driving action. During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina,
it was really important for Black churches to speak boldly in telling the truth around the harsh realities of what
people were experiencing by being isolated and disbursed around the country. I had the awesome opportunity
to work with Dr. Iva Carruthers to help SDPC create a platform that allowed those impacted by Katrina to tell
their stories in a way that people could understand what was and what was not being told. Proctor is great at
showing people and communities how to tell their stories.
I support SDPC…
“The ancestors will rejoice, those who need it will benefit, we at
Proctor will praise God and mommy, from her celestial perch
will say, ‘well done and thank you.’ I thank you as well.”
— Rhoda McKinney–Jones
Director, National Adoption Center
SDPC Board Secretary
Doylestown, Pennsylvania
I love the Black church in all her representations. And for me, the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference is one
of those forms. Social justice, civil rights and liberation theology are all concepts with which I grew up, heard
bantered about at supper, in Sunday church and during late night conversations my father had with noted
African American leaders and visiting ministers from across the country. Proctor provides a profound sense
of comfort, familiarity and warmth whenever and wherever we gather. It meets my needs and I have found a
place I call home.
After my father, the Rev. Dr. Samuel B. McKinney, received Proctor’s Beautiful Are the Feet Award at the
Jacksonville, FL. convening, a SDPC founder and trustee, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr. invited me to
volunteer my journalism skills to help the organization. And it’s been a life–changing journey and an honor
to be of service for the last nine years, working as a media liaison and now as board secretary. As a writer and
journalist of 30 years, it gives me great pleasure to support Dr. Iva Carruthers in whatever role she deems
necessary. Iva has what papa calls, “the lift of the far view;” for she sees where we are going and what we need
as a people to get things done.
All the above reasons are precisely why I give my time, talent and treasures in addition to being inspired by my
parents who were phenomenal supporters of Proctor from its inception. I believe the act of philanthropic and
charitable giving is necessary and needed in order to change lives and transform policy.
After the death of my beloved mother, Louise Jones McKinney, I knew I had to do much more. My mother was
an incredible giver; a serious philanthropist. She loved the Proctor Conference. She and my father made Seattle,
Washington a more livable city because of their good works, generous donations and dedication to the least of
these. I could do no less. So in her honor I donate knowing that it would make her proud and make papa smile.
Now I am asking you to give, and remember when you give the ancestors will rejoice, those who need it will
benefit and we at Proctor will praise God. Mommy, Daddy and I say, “well done and Thank You.’
I support SDPC…
“It has been my highest esteem to support SDPC with my time,
expertise and resources and I believe, ‘It takes somebody who is
steadfast, unmovable, to abound in this kind of work’ ”
— Dr. Henry H. Mitchell
Religious Leader, Professor Mentor
United Theological Seminary, Doctor of Ministry Program
Atlanta, Georgia
An excerpt from Reverend Martha Simmons stated,
“Over the past 30 years, Henry and Ella Mitchell have come to be known around the country, by too
many denominations and faiths to name, as the ultimate clergy couple. More than any clergy couple
of the 20th and now the 21st century, they have modeled discipleship, scholarship, love of Black
culture and covenanted marriage. Never has our culture produced a couple whose commitment to
the Black Church has influenced so many generations of preachers. “
I have had the opportunity to work with the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference since it’s inception and my
wife Ella P. Mitchell and I were honored to receive the initial “BEAUTIFUL ARE THEIR FEET” award in 2004.
I believe that the Proctor organization is important because it effectively deals with many of the most relevant
and pressing issues facing contemporary African American life. Developing and successfully executing the
Martin Luther King Doctoral Fellows Program at Rochester Theological Seminary in 1971 was critical not
only to development of new Black theological scholars, but also have helped to the advancement of relevant
curriculum materials for seminaries. Initiatives such as the MLK Fellows helped to deliver scholars who are
better equipped to do the great social transformative work that takes place at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor
Conference.
At a blossoming age of 95 and as a dedicated servant leader doing God’s work, it has been my highest esteem to
support SDPC with my time, expertise and resources. I believe, it takes somebody who is steadfast, unmovable,
to abound in this kind of work. If you’re scared they’ll know it in a minute and they’ll move in on you right then.
We are free from fear, free to do labor, to take risky projects, to work where the kingdom needs to be helped,
because in this day and age the biggest challenges we have require courage like we never had before.
I support SDPC…
“I have always been passionate and committed to doing whatever I can to
support the great work of SDPC and I understand that AFT would not
be who we are today without the great support of our members working
together.”
— Delisa Saunders
Deputy Director, Human Rights and Community Relations
American Federation of Teachers
Washington, District of Columbia
At the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), we champion fairness, democracy, economic opportunity,
and high–quality public education, healthcare and public services for our students, their families and our
communities.
AFT has had the pleasure to work with Dr. Carruthers and the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference (SDPC) for
more than 10 years. We have discovered many common intersections between the work of SDPC and AFT.
We both share in our commitment to advance social justice and human rights principles through community
engagement, organizing, collective bargaining and political activism, thus making our collaboration and
partnership necessary and impactful.
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference provides an environment where participants can listen, learn and
engage, while exploring effective ways to support the mission and work of Proctor and AFT.
SDPC is often ahead of the curve in the community on many issues. They serve as part of the global moral voice
of authority and I consider the Proctor organization one of the boldest, broadest networks of organized faith
leaders in this country.
Professionally I began my career in the non–profit arena, so I understand how difficult it is for organizations
to acquire funding and adequate resources for sustainability. Today I am proud and encouraged that AFT has
been a financial, in–kind and resource donor of SDPC since 2005.
I have always been passionate and committed to doing whatever I can to support the great work of SDPC and
I understand that AFT would not be who we are today without the great support of our members working
together.
I support SDPC…
“The work of Proctor serves as a useful tool for Pastors as they minister to
their congregations around critical social justice challenges”
— Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr.
Senior Pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church
Former Chair, Foreign Mission Board,
National Baptist Convention
Phoenix, Arizona
The Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference is one of the few organizations that is deeply engaged in authentic
prophetic ministry from the African American perspective. Like John the Baptist, it carries a resounding cry in
the wilderness of a collective prophetic voice that fills a void for social justice issues in the Black community.
The work of Proctor serves as a useful tool for Pastors as they minister to their congregations around critical
social justice challenges. I have lifted up the organization’s work around mass incarceration, Hurricane Katrina
and the March on Washington for initiatives within our congregation.
Since attending Proctor’s first conference, I have been moved to make contributions personally and through
First Institutional Baptist Church. I remain committed to continuing to support the mission of SDPC in ways
that are suitable and timely for our congregation. I believe that it will be imperative that we begin to establish
new methods and means to get the SDPC platform out to the younger generation.
I support SDPC…
“SDPC enables me to connect with people who are in the trenches addressing
the same critical challenges while collectively sharing best practices and
solutions that change lives.”
— Rev. Starsky D. Wilson
President & CEO
Deaconess Foundation
St. Louis, Missouri
I first attended the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference in 2007 for a required seminarian class at Eden Theological
Seminary. I had no idea what was in store. It felt like “home” for me as someone who professionally does
outreach ministry work. Five years later as a Senior Pastor in a distressed community, where two generations
have turned their backs on the community, Proctor has become indispensable to support the work that I do.
Having a relationship with SDPC enables me to connect with people who are in the trenches addressing the
same critical challenges while collectively sharing best practices and solutions that change lives.
In 2009, my conference experience caused me to make a switch from conference attendee to conference
contributor. At the close of the conference, seminarians were brought to the front to be prayed over by the
elders. As they were praying over us I grew extremely faint to the point where I had to be helped back to my
hotel room by Mother Thelma Hogg and Dr. Jeremiah Wright. Mother Hogg had cared for Dr. Wright over
the years and now she was caring for me. This was an absolute moment where I found my place in a wider
trajectory at Proctor and committed to being part of the undergirding support for the organization through
resource and partnership support.
The Proctor Conference is important because it helps to fill the gap between the church, community and
faith leaders. It is critically important for the Deaconess Foundation because it helps to lay the social justice
foundational work for us around advocacy work for children and youth.
I support SDPC…
“Dr. Proctor gave his life as an authentic ‘Jesus’ witness and I will remain
connected to his mission and vision for SDPC to advocate for reconstruction
over deconstruction.”
— Rev. Dr. Virgil Wood
Civil Rights Activist
Houston, Texas
I believe that SDPC holds an important place in society, in that it serves as an authentic witness to the legacy
of Samuel DeWitt Proctor collective himself. I was blessed to have had Dr. Proctor as a teacher and mentor. I
am equally encouraged by the collective efforts of faith leaders who have banned together to form the Samuel
DeWitt Proctor Conference, an organization that embodies his mission, vision and philosophy.
There are essentially no words that can fathom the leadership trajectory and anchoring work that Rev. Dr.
Proctor, Rev. Dr. Sullivan and Rev. Dr. King implemented to frame much of the work in social justice and
advocacy taking place today. Independently and collectively they were responsible for immeasurable change.
Dr. Proctor played a key role in a number of monumental initiatives such as, supporting the civil rights and
justice work in Montgomery, AL; he had a hand in the release of Bishop Desmond Tutu; and, he worked
directly with President Lydon B. Johnson as a subject matter expert and confidant on race relations and social
justice issues impacting vulnerable communities and people.
Dr. Proctor gave his life as an authentic “Jesus” witness and I will remain connected to his mission and vision
for SDPC to advocate for reconstruction over deconstruction.
The Disciple Circle
We would like to thank and recognize the following generous donors who have
contributed to our Disciple Circle for 2013/2014. Each of these individuals is an
extraordinary partner in advancing our work.
Dr. William Ackah
Sharon Laston
Bishop John H. Adams
Dr. Mary F. Lenox
Rev. Dr. Gregory J. Bentley
Barbara J. Little
Dr. Charlotte Blackman
Rhoda McKinney–Jones
Rev. Edward Branch
Rev. Dr. Samuel McKinney
Leona Bridges
Rev. Dr. Henry H. Mitchell
Rev. Dr. Jerry Cannon
Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III
Mary Fears Crayton
Ethan Nadelmann
Rev. Dr. Henry Davis
Richard Peterson
Rev. Mark A. Dennis, Jr.
Robert Purcell
Dr. Carol Edwards
Laticia A. Scott
Juanita I. Eldridge
Dr. Ann E. Smith
Rev. Herbert Ford
Rev. Dr. Ozzie Smith
Rev. Dr. Eugene L. Gibson, Jr.
Dr. Warren Stewart Sr.
Rev. Dr. Lora Hargrove
Rev. Dr. Martha Taylor
Ellsworth Hasbrouck
Tobia Thurman
Rev. Barbara A. Heard
Dr. Emile Townes
Thelma Hogg
Rev. Dr. Oscar Varnadoe
Dr. Joann Horton
Elvina and Fred Vaughn
Lynda A. Hughes
Ira Wagner
Bishop Nathaniel Jarrett
Rev. Christine Y. Wiley
Dr. Alison Gise Johnson
Rev. Dr. Dennis W. Wiley
Lois B. Johnson
Rev. Reginald Williams
Rev. Dr. Wilma R. Johnson
Sydneye Wilson
Kaleema N. Kindred
Rev. Dr. Willie Wilson
SDPC Key Program Partners
We give a special thanks to our partners
CENTER for
COMMUNITY
CHANGE
Justice
and
Witness
Ministries
UNITED CHURCH
O F
C H R I S T
TRANSALANTIC ROUNDTABLE
ON RELIGION AND RACE
SDPC Seminary Partners
... and thank those seminary and
university institutional partners who
grant credit for conference student
participation
according
to
ATS
standards and whose faculty provide
program support.
American Baptist College
Nashville, Tennessee
American Baptist Seminary of the West
Berkeley, California
Auburn Theological Seminary
New York, New York
Brite School of Divinity
Fort Worth, Texas
Center for African American Theological
Studies (CAATS)
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago Theological Seminary
Chicago, Illinois
Christian Theological Seminary
Indianapolis, Indiana
Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity
School
Rochester, New York
Drew University
Madison, New Jersey
Duke University School of Divinity
Durham, North Carolina
Ecumenical Theological Seminary
Detroit, Michigan
Eden Theological Seminary
St. Louis, Missouri
Emory University Candler School of
Theology
Atlanta, Georgia
Fund For Theological Education
Atlanta, Georgia
Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary
Evanston, Illinois
Harvard School of Divinity
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Howard University and Chapel School
of Divinity
Princeton Theological Seminary
Washington, District of Columbia
Princeton, New Jersey
Interdenominational Theological Center
Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of
Theology at Virginia Union University
Atlanta, Georgia
Richmond, Virginia
Lancaster School of Theology
San Francisco Theological Seminary
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
San Francisco, California
Lutheran School of Theology
Shaw Divinity School
Chicago, Illinois
Raleigh, North Carolina
McCormick Theological Seminary
Spelman College
Chicago, Illinois
Atlanta, Georgia
New Brunswick Theological Seminary
Temple University
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
New York Theological Seminary
Union Theological Seminary
New York, New York
New York, New York
North Park University
United Theological Seminary
Chicago, Illinois
Dayton, Ohio
Northern Baptist Theological Seminary
Vanderbilt Divinity School
Lombard, Illinois
Nashville, Tennessee
Payne Theological Seminary
Wesley Theological Seminary
Wilberforce, Ohio
Washington, District of Columbia
Perkins School of Theology
Dallas, Texas
SDPC 2014-2015 Board of Trustees
“It is said that one ought to enter the sanctuary to worship, but leave it to serve. With this
in mind, the SDPC was founded to be a centerpiece of visionary leadership and strategic
organizational effort for the good of pastors and congregations. We have a unique calling
to strengthen the capacity and network of the African American faith community and its
leaders, and to serve the community, locally, nationally and internationally.”
— Dr. Iva E. Carruthers, SDPC General Secretary
Rev. Dr. Valerie Bridgeman
Rev. Dr. Ann E. Lightner–Fuller
Founder/President, WomanPreach! Inc.
Methodist Theological School in Ohio
Delaware, Ohio
Mt. Calvary AME Church
Towson, Maryland
Rev. Robert N. Burkins, Sr.
Washington, DC
Elmwood United Presbyterian Church
East Orange, New Jersey
Dr. Iva E. Carruthers, General
Secretary
Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc.
Chicago, Illinois
Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Cosby
Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church
Houston, Texas
Rev. Martin L. Espinosa
Ray of Hope Community Church
Nashville, Tennessee
Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr.
The Healing Nations Foundation
New York, New York
Honorable Rev. Wendell L. Griffen
New Millennium Church
Little Rock, Arkansas
Rev. Dr. Forrest E. Harris
American Baptist College
Nashville, Tennessee
Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes, III,
Chairman
Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc.
Friendship West Baptist Church
Dallas, Texas
Bishop Gregory G. M. Ingram,
Presiding Prelate
1st District AME Church
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tyra Ann Mariani
Rev. Dr. Earl B. Mason Sr.
Bible Based Fellowship Church of Temple Terrace
Tampa, Florida
Rev. Dr. Larry Murphy,
Historiographer, SDPC,
Professor Emeritus
Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary
Evanston, Illinois
Rev. Dr. Michael Pfleger
Faith Community of Saint Sabina Church
Chicago, Illinois
Rev. Dr. Joe Samuel Ratliff
Brentwood Baptist Church
Houston, Texas
Rev. Dr. William Marcus Small
New Calvary Baptist Church
Norfolk, Virginia
Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart
Christ Missionary Baptist Church
Memphis, Tennessee
Robin P. Williams
United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW)
Washington, DC
Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr.,
Pastor Emeritus
Trinity United Church of Christ
Chicago, Illinois
SDPC
AWARDS AND
HONORS
32 SDPC Awards and Honors
United Nations
Nations Unies
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS BRANCH
OFFICE FOR ECOSOC SUPPORT AND COORDINATION
25th Floor Secretariat Building, United Nations, New York, New York 10017
Telephone: (212) 963-8652; Fax: (212) 963-9248
Website: www.un.org/ecosoc/ngo Contact: www.un.org/ecosoc/ngo/contact
1 May 2014
Dear NGO Representative,
I am pleased to inform you that the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at its Coordination and
Management Session of April 2014 adopted the recommendation of the Committee on Non-Governmental
Organizations (NGOs) to grant Special consultative status to your organization Samuel DeWitt Proctor
Conference, Inc. On behalf of all staff of the Non-Governmental Organizations Branch/OESC/DESA, please
accept our heartfelt congratulations.
Consultative status for an organization enables it to actively engage with ECOSOC and its subsidiary
bodies, as well as with the United Nations Secretariat, programmes, funds and agencies in a number of ways. In
order to better understand this relationship, we take this opportunity to provide some critical information about
the privileges that consultative status with ECOSOC confers on your organization, as well as the obligations
that your organization will be required to meet under this relationship.
2014 Community Cross Awards
“I nominated the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference for the Community of the Cross Award because of its
faithful commitment to support the global community of people of African descent. The Samuel DeWitt Proctor
Conference’s Christ–centeredness represents the public church’s mission in the world,” said Dr. Linda Thomas,
professor of anthropology and theology at LSTC.
The Community of the Cross award is presented by the faculty of Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago to “a
community, institution, congregation, or any collectively functioning Christian group whose actions manifest
the invitation of our Lord to take up the cross and follow him, and whose service is directed to the world
around it, both Christian and non–Christian, and whose satisfaction and honor clearly derive from the gospel.”
SDPC Awards and Honors
SDPC ADDIE WYATT / BILL LUCY LABOR AND JUSTICE INSTITUTE
The Late Addie Wyatt and William “Bill” Lucy
The SDPC Addie Wyatt / Bill Lucy Labor and Justice Institute embraces the principle that we must be global
in our vision and local in our organizing. This Institute sponsors programs to enrich the understanding and
advocacy efforts to connect human rights, worker justice and youth leadership and advocacy. Young people
have been sponsored to participate in SDPC Capitol Hill Advocacy Days.
The William Lucy Fellowship
The William Lucy Fellowship is designed to further the understanding and models for activism that support,
identify and secure the rights of workers; the unemployed; and low and middle income families in a changing
global economy. The fellowship is designated for students interested in the intersection of ministry, justice
and human rights. Since its founding, over twenty five students have been recipients of the William Lucy
Fellowship.
The Beautiful Are Their Feet Awards
2013
REV. DR. ALLAN
AUBREY BOESAK
REV. DR. AMOS C.
BROWN
REV. DR. CAIN
HOPE FELDER
REV. DR. IVA
ELAINE
CARRUTHERS
REV. DR. BERNICE
POWELL JACKSON
R EV . D R . M ACK
K ING C ARTER
2014
REV. DR. VINCENT
HARDING
REV. ELIZABETH
OMILAMI
REV. DR. JOSEPH
L. ROBERTS, JR.
REV. DR. J.
DEOTIS ROBERTS
ROMANS ₁₀:₁₅ KJV
CELEBRATING MINISTRIES AND GIFTS
•
THE BAOBAB TREE – "THE TREE OF LIFE"
VOLUME X & XI
The Beautiful Are Their Feet Awards
“Beautiful Are The Feet” Honorees
Rev. Dr. Larry
G. Murphy
Ms. Ruby Nell
Sales
Rev. Dr. Virgil
Woods
Rev. Dr. Joseph
Lowery
The Ella Joe Baker Humanitarian Award Honorees
Congresswoman
Barbara Lee
Mr. Danny
Glover
INVESTMENT
IN SDPC
SDPC Revenue Detail – Fiscal Years 2013 & 2014
2013
2014
THE
CALL
IS
NOW
39 THE SDPC MOVEMENT!
You can help ensure the SDPC movement of social justice and equality for our communities continues to succeed
and thrive. WE CANNOT DO IT ALONE. Together our united collaboration is powerful and can reverberate
throughout our neighborhoods, across the country and across the world.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
SDPC volunteerism builds UNITY, addresses multiple social justice and human rights issues and demonstrates
the power of collective grassroots organizing to bring about change.
We would not survive without the generous grants, gifts, donations and sponsorships from our various
supporters.
You are the hands and feet of SDPC. God’s justice has no boundaries.
Learn more about becoming part of the SDPC Movement, ACT NOW!
Visit us at www.sdpconference.info
Connect with us on Facebook
Call us at 773.548.6662
SAMUEL DEWITT
PROCTOR
CONFERENCE
4533 S. Lake Park Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60653
773.548.6662
www.sdpconference.info