Remarks of Commissioner Mignon L. Clyburn
Federal Communications Commission
African Immigrants Heritage Month
September 29, 2014
Good morning ladies and gentlemen.
I appreciate the opportunity to welcome you to the FCC as you gather to celebrate 
African Immigrants Heritage Month.
You know, this year’s celebration comes at a time of great historical significance with 
respect to the continent of Africa and its relations with the United States.
Earlier this year, President Obama convened the first Africa-U.S. Summit, where over 50 
heads of state gathered to discuss economic, social and policy issues affecting their nations and 
the region.
According to all reliable statistics, the continent of Africa is one of the fastest growing 
regions, both in terms of consumer consumption, economic markets, investment and real 
development.
And even with the security and humanitarian challenges that dominate the news coming 
from Africa, there is an amazingly positive story to tell.
When I look at the communications landscape, Africa represents an American dream.  
Among the many nations, there is a young consumer population that has grown up with wireless 
devices and a yearning for connectivity to the world.  
There is a thriving entrepreneurial spirit that is driving innovation and new products.
And we cannot forget that the continent also produces much of the raw material that 
makes communication and computer hardware devices actually operate.
I have been to several countries on the continent, but not nearly enough.  So I am looking 
forward to even more opportunities to travel and learn firsthand about the communications 
environment in the various regions there.  Of course, our international experts here at the FCC 
are deeply involved in regional, bilateral and multilateral forums where they exchange 
information, views and expertise with their international counterparts.
So, as you gather today, I encourage you to think expansively, think creatively, and think 
globally.  The world is small, and the world is flat.  Through technology, we are all just a click or 
push away from sharing experiences, relationships, trade, commerce and culture.
I thank you for being here today, and I hope you have a productive conference.