Civil Rights Activist Rev Al Sharpton arrives in London today for a serious of events including a Black political rally as part of Operation Black Vote's General Election campaign.

Sharpton arrives in London having made two mercy visits to the earth-quake stricken Haiti. He was there delivering aid as part of his charity Action for Justice.

Whilst here in London the Civil Rights icon will visit the Stephen Lawrence Centre, meet Black magistrates and Church leaders, and attend a 2,000 strong rally at Friends House, Euston.

OBV Directors Simon Woolley stated: "We are honoured to have perhaps one the greatest orator's of his generation to give support and encourage Black and Asian communities to have a powerful voice in this year's election.

"Given that the Election could be won and lost in the metropolitan areas, the Black vote could be the decisive factor. This important rally serves notice on the political establishment: ignore us at your peril."

To celebrate Dr Martin Luther King's birthday, OBV is hosting a flagship event to commemorate Dr King's work and his legacy. The emphasis of the evening will therefore be on the importance of voter registration and civic engagement which were a key part of Dr King's legacy.

There will be a special keynote speech from the Rev. Al Sharpton and other government officials and activists.

REALISING THE DREAM RALLY
Thursday 21st January 2010
6pm - 9.30pm
Friends House (opposite Euston station, London)

Notes to the editors:

1. Operation Black Vote is a non-party political campaign
2. The term "Black" is a political term. It refers to African, Asian, Caribbean and other ethnic minorities.
3. The Operation Black Vote Shadowing Scheme is the first to specifically target ethnic minorities.