During his remarks to the crowd of more than 500 people, Comptroller Thompson stressed the need to move past minimal representation of African-Americans.

"Some people might say that once there is one African-American in the boardroom, in the legislature, or on the faculty, that's fine, that's enough, African-Americans are 'represented,'" Thompson said. "But it is not enough. Full representation means ensuring that no one with talent gets shut out of the process. We cannot stop until we have reached full equality and broad participation in all areas of American life."

Comptroller Thompson presented Reverend Dr. Harry S. Wright and New York Secretary of State Hon. Basil Paterson, Esq with Lifetime Achievement Awards. Paterson's son Daniel accepted the award on his behalf.

Other honorees were: Brenda Blackmon, Anchor, UPN 9 News; Zachary Carter, Esq., Former US Attorney; Hal Jackson, Group Chairman, Inner City Broadcasting, Inc; Byron E. Lewis, Chairman and CEO, Uniworld Group, Inc; Lt. Ella McNair, the first African -American woman Lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department; and Barbara Smith, host of "B Smith with Style".

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