After a season of turmoil, confusion and cancellation of many Black SGL events this year, I am pleased to see the return next year of the White Attire Affair,the SGL community's premier extravaganza! I eagerly anticipate this event each year! Unlike many "circuit parties" themed around clubs and flesh, The White Attire Affair, is a formal gala with a purpose of community service which attracts visitors from across the country and international community.
In 2008 drama and chaos surrounded many of our annual Black SGL events nationwide. From celebrity pull outs, "shady" promoters, misappropriation of funds, patron mistreatment, and last minute event cancellations, allegations of bickering and greed seemed overshadow the festive nature of these anticipated events.
2009 White Attire Affair organizers observed what happened with these other events in the community, took a brief hiatus, aligned a new leadership team, copyrighted their name and forged ahead with a gala that promises to dazzle, promote HIV/AIDS awareness and help our community heal!
For nine consecutive years, the White Attire Affair, a lavish and festive event attended by thousands of mostly African Americans raised thousands of dollars to assist HIV/AIDS providers in Washington, DC and in surrounding areas.
But in 2008, the event went on a brief hiatus in order to re-organize. This fall the White Attire Affair re-emerges as a copyrighted event that is fully owned, planned, organized and executed by the Al Sura Foundation, headed by its Founder and Chairman Rahim Briggs.
"The new foundation promotes HIV/AIDS awareness across African-American communities through social marketing events. The White Attire Affair will be one of several planned social marketing events across the mid-Atlantic region" explains Briggs who originated the fundraiser in his backyard 10 years ago.
The 10th Annual White Attire Affair is scheduled for Saturday, July 18, 2009 in downtown Washington, DC featuring live entertainment and food. The 2009 theme is "A Family Reunion."
Leading up to the event, the Al Sura Foundation has scheduled a fall fundraiser donor reception on Saturday, October 11, 2008 to raise funds and to recruit additional Board and Board Advisory Committee Members.
Al Sura has also scheduled "A Call To Service" on Saturday October 25, 2008 for men, women and youth who would like to dedicate their time, talent and resources over the next 10 months in planning, staffing and executing the event.
The name Al Sura inspired from the Holy Quran, simply means, "New Chapter or New Era." According to Briggs "We must Renew, Reconnect and Recommit our efforts in raising awareness and to successfully partner with various organizations in the areas of finance, marketing, fundraising, and outreach. There is a leadership void within the community; Allah has provided me another opportunity to lead the effort."
About the Al Sura Foundation
Al Sura's mission is to improve communication, education, and promotional awareness in the fight against HIV/AIDS within the African-American community. This is done through social marketing and fundraising opportunities while providing leadership training to individuals and organizations providing HIV/AIDS support targeted to people of color.
This event will surely sell out so mark your calendars! I will see you there! For more information visit the Al-Sura website
Enjoy this photo gallery of previous White Attire Affair galas! Spread the word!
