(BLACK PR WIRE) CHICAGO (June 12, 2008) – Nearly 50,000 women are expected to convene in Chicago this summer for the city’s very own, “The Black Women’s Expo,” formerly “An Expo for Today’s Black Woman.” Now in its 15th year, the national destination event returns to the city bigger and better than ever beginning August 1st through August 3rd at McCormick Place! A host of exciting events are planned, making the 2008 Expo the hottest ticket in town.

“There is something for all black women at this summer’s Expo. In years past, women from all around the country have come to Chicago to participate. We fully expect to engage and excite each and every woman that makes the trip,” said Merry Green, producer of The Black Women’s Expo.



The kickoff event on Thursday (July 31st) preceding the Expo will be the Phenomenal Women Awards Gala and Dinner, during which ten women who have excelled in their careers, communities and business sectors will be honored. Past national honorees have included Maya Angelou, Ph.D, renowned author, educator, poet and historian; Debbie Allen, actress, producer/director, and choreographer; Suzanne de Passe, CEO of de Passe Entertainment and entertainment executive extraordinaire; and Shoshana Johnson, a U.S. Army Specialist and former prisoner of war. Past local honorees have included, Oprah Winfrey; Renetta McCann, chief executive officer of Starcom MediaVest Group; and Linda Johnson Rice, president and CEO of Johnson Publishing Company.

The Expo will feature three days of informative discussions, engaging summits and exciting entertainment. Throughout the weekend, speakers, authors and special guests will motivate black women with messages that address the challenges they face as career women, caregivers and community leaders.

The “Keepin’ Our Kids Safe Summit” is a back-to-school event featuring discussions for mothers and their children on conflict resolution. Panelists will suggest activities in which women can involve their children in as alternatives to just hanging out after school. The summit also will include a showcase for students with exceptional talent in various genres. The “Leadership Summit” is designed for women who are or aspire to be leaders in their professional industries. Summit workshop topics are planned to include discussions on career strategies, balancing home and work and financial success.



For women in search of a respite, the Literary Caf will be the perfect place to rest, relax and purchase today’s most popular titles. Health and wellness screenings are also on tap for this year’s attendees, not to mention a marketplace of on-site vendors chosen with today’s black woman’s needs in mind. A host of pavilions are planned including The Macy’s Black is Beautiful Pavilion, Education Pavilion, Travel Pavilion and the Kids Korner. All will have additional information for women and their families.



In addition to all of these stellar offerings, a sizzling stepper’s competition will bring the nation’s top dancers to Chicago, also known as the “Steppin’ Capital,” to showcase their talent. Steppers that have advanced to Chicago from trials in their own cities will compete for cash prizes in the “Steppin’ Across America” finals.



The Black Women’s Expo 2008: It’s the ONE event for ALL black women, and it’s back.� Visit www.theblackwomensexpo.com for more details.