by Contributing Writer Michael Coleman
A standing room only crowd of over 300 packed the Guild Theatre on August 19th, welcoming San Francisco 49ers Hall Of Famer, philanthropist and investor Ronnie Lott to Sacramento. Lott was the featured speaker at Mayor Kevin Johnsonʼs monthly Indivizible meeting.
Indivizible is an African American assembly who address critical issues and come together for the communityʼs greater good.
Azizza Davis-Goines, President of the Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the crowd promptly at 6 pm, followed by a benediction by Pastor Nehemiah Goudeaux of Calvary Christian Center.
Mayor Johnson then addressed the audience, encouraging everyone to reflect upon 1963ʻs historic March On Washington, as we celebrate its 50th anniversary this month. After Nicole West sang “We Shall Overcome”, Mayor Johnson welcomed special guests Osby Davis and Aja Brown, the mayors of Vallejo and Compton respectively, who both expressed interest in replicating IndiviZible in their cities. Mayor Johnson then led the audience through a review of investment strategies and terms covered during the July meeting.
Mayor Johnson then turned things over to Lott — or more accurately, Lott humorously brushed the Mayor aside, drawing laughs from the audience. He spoke briefly but very effectively, challenging the audience with statements like “There is no reason not to dream big.” and asking “How can we be like the Rockefellers, and leave something behind for our kidsʼ kids?” He gave a few tips for new financial investors, and took a few questions from the audience.
Another star of the show was Lottʼs four Superbowl Championship rings, which he displayed for the crowd and used as an example of what can be achieved through preparation, hard work, and dedication.
Regular Indivizible meetings are free and open to the public. However, Indivizible is currently short of its 2013 goal of 1,000 paid members. Future events in 2013 will feature Charles Barkley and Tavis Smiley. For information on Indivizible or on future meetings, go to www.indivizible.com
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