From Dyana Williams, President, IAAAM, International Association of African-American Music

Dyana Williams <IAAAM@aol.com> Date: April 22, 1997

The IAAAM 18th annual African-American Music Month Celebration will be held June 12-15, 1997 in Washington D.C. at the JW Marriott Hotel, Smithsonian Institution, and the historic Warner Theater. The theme this year is: The Business of Music: Unity in Our Community. Read President Clinton's letter on African-Amer Music Month.


Dear Chancellor Broski:

As president of the International Association of African-American Music (IAAAM), an organization dedicated to the perpetuation of Black music worldwide, I wanted to express our interest in the preservation of the Maxwell Street Historic District. IAAAM produces a variety of vital educational and cultural programs. Additionally, we orchestrate the international and national celebrations of African-American Music Month, each June. Our honorary chairpersons include, Whitney Houston, Jon Secada, Salt N Pepa, Vesta, Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, Congressman John Conyers (Detroit) and Senior Vice President of the EMIC Records, Dave Rosas. Our collective organization works diligently to protect and promote America's indigenous music and its traditions. This significant cultural area is valuable not only to countless Chicagoans, but to millions of music lovers around the globe.

In not demolishing these historic buildings you would further establish the University of Illinois as an institution dedicated to the preservation of history, and the promotion of a legendary district which has greatly enhanced American culture. The eyes of the global community are focused on what the university does in this vital area.

On behalf of numerous music industry organizations and companies, I would like to implore your serious consideration f our request to protect the Maxwell Street Historic District.

Remember our past and present are the foundations for future generations to come!

Regards,

Dyana Williams, President


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