State of the African American Male (SAAM)

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation launched the State of the African American Male (SAAM) initiative in 2003, under the leadership of Rep. Danny Davis, to take a proactive stance in determining policy initiatives to facilitate the economic and social well-being and the wellness of black men in the United States. SAAM facilitates dialogue between individuals and organizations and addresses the issues significantly affecting African American males. SAAM seeks to better understand some of the historical, psychological, economic and social challenges prohibiting upward mobility for many African American males.

SAAM also seeks to assess the impact of the larger society on the current condition of African American males, and the role it should play in empowering these men and boys to overcome barriers. SAAM seeks to address issues affecting African American males in five areas:

• Health
• Education
• Economic empowerment
• Criminal justice
• Civic participation

In making these discoveries, SAAM hopes to inspire action that will generate legislative, policy and social changes that will dissolve barriers to success for African American males and empower these men and boys to seek and obtain the resources that they need to overcome the obstacles that remain.

Further Information: http://www.iamsaam.org