The Telecommunications Research & Action Center (TRAC) (http://www.trac.org) in cooperation with the United Church of Christ (UCC) will host the 20th Annual Everett C. Parker Ethics in Telecommunications Lecture in Washington, D.C. on September 24, 2002. This year's program includes:

• Judy Woodruff, CNN's prime anchor and senior correspondent, as she is presented with the Donald H. McGannon Award for her special contribution in advancing the role of women and minorities in the media;
• Wade Henderson, executive director of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), who will be honored with the Everett C. Parker Award for his work in strengthening the principles and values of the public interest in telecommunications; and
• The Honorable Michael J. Copps of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as this year's distinguished Parker Lecturer.

Over the past 20 years, TRAC and the UCC have awarded individuals whose work embodies the principles and values of advocating for the public interest in advancing social change and closing social divides. The lecture series and awards honor the Rev. Dr. Everett C. Parker, founder and director emeritus of the Office of Communication of the United Church of Christ (UCC), for his pioneering work in broadcast reform.

"Each year the Parker Lecture showcases great achievements of media, policy and civil rights leaders," said TRAC Chairman, Samuel A. Simon. "At this year's 20th annual luncheon, TRAC and the UCC are proud to bring together three individuals who have worked to advocate and advance social change in the telecommunications industry."

The Everett C. Parker Ethics in Telecommunications Lecture was created in 1982 in recognition of Dr. Parker's pioneering work as an advocate for the public's rights in broadcasting. It is the only lecture in the country to examine telecommunications and the digital age from an ethical perspective. Previous speakers and honorees include network presidents, Congressional leaders, FCC chairs and commissioners, as well as academics, cable and telephone executives and journalists.

The luncheon will be held at noon on Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at the National City Christian Church, Five Thomas Circle in Washington, D.C.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

John Breyault, TRAC, johnb@trac.org, 202-263-2943

ABOUT TRAC:

The Telecommunications Research and Action Center (TRAC), founded in 1983, is a non-profit membership organization based in Washington, DC that promotes the interests of residential telecommunications customers. TRAC staff researches telecommunications issues and publishes rate comparisons to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their long distance and local phone service options. TRAC can be found on the web at http://www.trac.org.