Activist Proposes Cell Phone "Black-Out Day"

NEW YORK - The Black History Month 2011 (February) national campaign called "Our Silence Speaks Volumes: The Black Out," featuring internationally renowned World Music Artist David M (aka David Minott) was set into motion on January 17, 2011, Martin Luther King Day. David M kicked off this campaign at the CORE Martin Luther King Day Banquet in New York City. One of the key points to this campaign is the actual Black Out Day taking place on February 1, 2011, on which African-Americans would refrain from the use of their cell phones/texting, as a show of understanding and making a statement toward recognizing and announcing to the masses that they are not slaves to the cell phone; rather, that they realize the strides that earlier generations made toward getting them where they are now (Black History Month) and look forward, toward improving future history for the race. David M's "Lest We Forget" song and video are poignant reminders of how far African-Americans have come. Certainly, as the old adage goes, "those who forget their past are doomed to repeat it."

Leading up to the official announcement of the "Our Silence Speaks Volumes" campaign, David M was involved in many different events promoting the awareness of African-Americans and the contributions they have made, which David believes is seriously lacking in America today. He spoke at The Schomburg Museum of Harlem, Irvington High School, Middle School 61 in Brooklyn, and the Joy Dailey Show on this issue. He also did countless interviews with both radio and TV personalities, expressing his feelings on Black History Month and how his single "Lest We Forget," is a testament to the achievements of African-Americans. He also hosted a listening party where he showcased his inspiring and positive music. The thoughtful words of wisdom instilled in David's music are laying the foundation for this year's celebration of Black History Month.

The actual Black Out Day will kick off with David M doing several appearances, to commemorate/launch Black History Month and this initiative. African-American cell phone "silence" on that day (regardless of the length of time) would put an important focus on letting the world know that people of color are still in control of their destinies, as they've been since escaping from the bonds of slavery. That day they will stop, get off of the phone and determine to move forward so as to continue to create positive, fruitful future Black History.

David M's single "Lest We Forget," as per the campaign, has now been turned into a ringtone available for all as a Black History Month theme song. According to the most recent Nielsen Report, African-Americans utilize ringtones in far greater numbers than other ethnicities; therefore David M's message will certainly reach those who see the value of Black History Month. The proceeds from the ringtone's sale will benefit HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) across the country, by way of a donation to the UNCF (United Negro College Fund), to assist in developing the minds of future leaders in tomorrow's generation.

As history has proven time and again, when a group unifies toward a common cause, there is unbelievable strength in numbers. This campaign can result in a beneficial awareness for African-Americans regarding their valuable consumer spending role, as a celebration of Black History Month and beyond.