Journalist Star Parker to Speak at Eastern

            Willimantic, Conn. - As part of its celebration of African American History Month, Eastern Connecticut State University will present "An Afternoon with Star Parker" on Feb. 25 from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Student Center. The public is invited.  Admission is free.

            Star Parker, who writes a nationally syndicated column through the Scripps Howard News Service, will challenge conventional thoughts and practices in modern culture through an inspirational speech on her journey as an African American woman. Following her remarks, Parker will sign copies of her book, "Uncle Sam's Plantation: How Big Government Enslaves America's Poor and What We Can Do About It."

            Parker serves as commentator and analyst on major television and radio programs across the country, including CNN, MSNBC, and FOX News. She debated Jesse Jackson on Black Entertainment Television (BET); fought for school choice on Larry King Live; and defended welfare reform on the Oprah Winfrey Show.

            Parker also is founder and president of CURE (Coalition on Urban Renewal and Education), which provides national dialog on issues of race and poverty in the media and inner city neighborhoods. She often testifies before the U.S. Congress.