December 2003
DISTRICT MANAGER, CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES
POSTMASTERS
SUBJECT: Black History Month
In February we celebrate Black History Month, reflecting on the progress, richness, and diversity of African-American
achievements. Although February has been designated as the official month to celebrate Black history, every day is an
occasion to highlight the monumental significance of African-American contributions and the vital role they have played
in shaping America's history.
This year Black History Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the Black Heritage commemorative
stamp series and the 2004 honoree, Paul Robeson. The Black Heritage series began in 1978 with the issuance of the
Harriett Tubman commemorative stamp. The U.S. Postal ServiceŽ is committed to this popular stamp series, which
helps educate Americans on the achievements and contributions of noted African-American leaders, inventors,
educators, scientists, lawyers, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and sports figures.
We encourage you to host special events in your community throughout the month of February, highlighting the
achievements of Paul Robeson and others honored in the Black Heritage series. Take advantage of Black History
Month by inspiring both children and adults to learn more about African-American history through the educational
hobby of stamp collecting.
The Paul Robeson stamp will be issued on January 20, 2004, and Black History Month launches nationally on
February 1. The enclosed publicity kit provides a step-by-step guide to help you plan your local Black History Month
and Paul Robeson commemorative stamp local dedication events and activities. The kit includes the following:
• Suggestions to generate publicity.
• Fill-in news releases for Black History Month events.
• A letter to the editor you can send to local newspapers thanking residents for support.
• Sample media advisory, public service announcement, and thank-you notes.
• Talking points for a speech to be given during local community events.
• Public Affairs and Communications contacts.
• Government Relations contacts.
Please use this Black History Month Community Relations Publicity Kit to help develop and plan your local events. Be
sure to keep your Public Affairs and Communications field manager informed of your activities. Your support of this
year's campaign is vital to its success.
cc: Vice Presidents, Area Operations
Manager, Capital Metro Operations
PUBLICITY KIT
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Item
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Page
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Publicity Ideas to Interest the Media
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2 |
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Suggested Participating Organizations and Contact
Information
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3 |
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Black Heritage Series (1978-2004)
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3
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Speech Segment and Talking Points
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5
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Suggested Public Relations Timeline
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6
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Area Public Affairs and Communications Field
Managers
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6
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Public Service Announcement for Radio
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7
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Pre-publicity News Release
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8
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Media Advisory
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10
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Sample Letter to Local Newspaper Editor Thanking
Residents for Support
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11
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Participation of Public Officials
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12
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Sample Invitation to Public Officials/Participating
Organizations
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13
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Sample Thank-You Letter to Public
Officials/Participating Organizations
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14
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Government Relations Contacts
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15
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There are many ways to interest local media in your
Black History Month/Paul Robeson commemorative
stamp local dedication stamp events. Following are some
methods to capture media attention.
Note: You can plan Black History Month events in conjunction with Paul Robeson local dedication stamp ceremonies. You should emphasize the fact that this is the
27th anniversary of the Black Heritage stamp series featuring Paul Robeson.
• Have a month-long Black History Month celebration
involving employees and their families, school children, and congressional, civic, and community
leaders. Involve those people in helping to create a
traveling or permanent African-American stamp
collection exhibit that could either be placed in Post
OfficeTM lobbies or taken to stamp events at libraries, schools, or museums throughout the month
of February. Highlight a different honoree theme every week of the month. Some examples of different
themes might include sports figures, entertainers,
inventors, educators, leaders, and scientists.
- Photo opportunity: Encourage media to cover
the opening day of your exhibit. Media can take
pictures of employees and community members
setting up the exhibit to accompany an article
about Black History Month.
- Opening day of the exhibit should feature unveilings of the Paul Robeson commemorative stamp
and possibly other stamps in the Black Heritage
series. Ask congressional, civic, and community
leaders to participate in ceremonies.
• Invite local children to design stamps about African-
American history, and display their designs in the
Post Office. Have local customers select the winners. Winners can be awarded Black Heritage or
other commemorative stamp materials.
• Using this kit, spread the word about Black History
Month and the Paul Robeson commemorative
stamp in your community by giving presentations
and workshops to local elementary schools, libraries, reading clubs, and community organizations like the Scouts and the Rotary Club.
• Look for opportunities to partner with local philatelic
organizations that may be sponsoring local exhibits
or other events. Offer to speak, conduct workshops,
or organize volunteers from among your staff to
help.
• Help local after-school programs set up stamp collecting clubs and share African-American history.
Ask a local stamp collector to set up a display of
stamp collecting tools and philatelic materials, such
as tongs, magnifier, perforation gauge, albums, first
day covers, and so on. Go online to the American
Philatelic Society's Web site at www.stamps.org to
find local chapters (including African-American
stamp clubs) and affiliates that might be willing to
help.
• Postal Service TM employees can find an electronic
version of this stamp publicity kit on the Intranet at
http://blue.usps.gov. Under "Tools" click on Postmaster's Toolkits. Downloading the Microsoft Word
version of the kit makes it easy to complete the fill-
in-the-blank materials included in this kit.
Implement any of these ideas, combine them, or brainstorm with your employees to come up with ideas of your
own. Using the publicity materials in this kit, be sure to
publicize each and every event to your local newspaper,
radio, and television stations via press releases, media
advisories, and letters to the media. Don't forget to make
follow-up telephone calls.
Paul Robeson stamp products:
• First Day Cover - $0.75
• Full Pane with First Day Cover - $8.15
Licensing and use of Paul Robeson stamp image:
• Information regarding licensed products will be
available in a future issue of the Postal bulletin, in
the Licensing section.
To purchase artwork of the Paul Robeson stamp or
other stamps in the Black Heritage commemorative
stamp series, including poster-sized enlargements, color
transparencies, and color prints, contact:
JOHN GRIM
DODGE COLOR
4827 RUGBY AVE STE 100
BETHESDA MD 20814-3028
E-mail: johng@dodgecolor.com
Telephone: 301-656-0025, x230
Fax: 301-656-0435
Please plan ahead and allow enough time for production and shipping.
The information below is a suggested listing of partners for Paul Robeson stamp local dedication to help generate maximum exposure for the Paul Robeson stamp
and Black Heritage stamp series.
Robeson was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Contact:
HARRY E JOHNSON SR ESQ
NATIONAL GENERAL PRESIDENT
OR
GREGORY PHILLIPS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC
2313 ST PAUL ST
BALTIMORE MD 21218-5234
E-mail: gphillips@apa1906.net
Telephone: 410-554-0040
Fax: 410-554-0064
Please contact your local libraries for participation in
the events.
Other suggestions:
Local NAACP
Local African-American bookstores
Public libraries
Born a slave, abolitionist Tubman was the first African-
American woman to be honored on a U.S. stamp, and the
first honoree in the Black Heritage series. Tubman was
the conductor for the famed Underground Railroad by
which many slaves escaped to freedom in the years leading to the Civil War.
King is considered one of the most powerful and popular leaders of the African-American Civil Rights movement
of the 1950s and 1960s. He spearheaded a massive
peace movement through marches, sit-ins, boycotts, and
demonstrations that profoundly and positively affected
America's attitudes toward race relations. He was presented the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964.
In 1753, Banneker constructed the first wooden striking clock made in America. At age 60 he was chosen by
George Washington to help lay out blueprints for the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Young served for 10 years as the executive director of
the National Urban League. In 1969, he received the nation's highest civilian honor - the Medal of Freedom.
Robinson broke the Major League Baseball color barrier in 1947. After retirement from baseball in 1956, he remained active in civil rights and youth activities. In 1962,
he became the first African American inducted into the
Baseball Hall of Fame.
A composer and pianist, Joplin was the "King of Ragtime," fighting for recognition of ragtime as a significant
genre in modern music. Some 50 years after his death, he
was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his ragtime opera
Treemonisha.
A prominent historian and the son of former slaves
from Virginia, Woodson is credited with starting the observance of Negro History Week in 1926.
A noted educator and social activist, Bethune was an
advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She founded
the National Council of Negro Women in 1935.
Born into slavery, Isabella Baum Free went to live in
New York City after acquiring freedom. In 1843, she
changed her name to Sojourner Truth and began traveling
and lecturing on women's rights and the evils of slavery.
She was considered one of the greatest orators of her
time.
A pioneer and entrepreneur, DuSable was the first settler in the community that was known as the cornerstone
of America's heartland - Chicago. The stamp was issued
during the city's sesquicentennial.
Johnson was noted as a lawyer, educator, and writer.
His composition "Lift Every Voice and Sing" is sung today
as the Black National Anthem.
An eloquent spokesperson for civil rights and minority
labor, Randolph organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping
Car Porters. After 10 years of fierce struggle, he achieved
the first union contract signed by a white employee and an
African-American leader.
Wells devoted her life to educating people about the
horrors of discrimination and lynching.
Matzeliger's invention, the shoe-lacing machine, patented in 1883, revolutionized the shoemaking industry
and made mass-produced shoes a reality in America.
Critic, editor, scholar, author, civil rights leader, and
one of the most influential African Americans of the 20th
century, Du Bois was one of the founders of the National
Association for the Advancement of Colored People
(NAACP) in 1909.
Julian won fame for his work as a research chemist.
He synthesized cortisone for arthritis, a drug for glaucoma, and progesterone. In 1990, he was inducted into the
National Inventors Hall of Fame.
A psychologist and educator, Davis served on the
President's Commission on Civil Rights and was vice
chairman of the Department of Labor's Commission Manpower Retraining during the Johnson and Nixon Administrations. He was a Fellow of the Academy of Arts and
Sciences and of the National Academy of Education.
Coleman was the first woman to earn an international
aviation license and the world's first licensed African-
American aviator.
Known primarily for his research in marine biology,
Just pioneered experiments in the process of the fertilization of marine invertebrates. He also studied the fundamental role of the cell surface in the development of
organisms.
Davis distinguished himself in a long military career
that saw him become the nation's first African-American
Brigadier General. He was a driving force in the eventual
integration of the U.S. armed forces.
Walker was an early 20th century beauty product pioneer and one of the nation's first female millionaires. An
early advocate of women's economic independence and
empowerment, her hair products manufacturing company
employed thousands of women as sales agents and
beauty consultants.
In the late 1950s Malcolm X emerged as a major spokesperson for African Americans. He was both a brilliant
scholar and a fiery orator whose persuasive and passionate views helped define the debate on race relations.
An extraordinary leader, committed public servant, and
champion of civil rights, Harris dedicated her life to
improving the quality of life for all Americans. She
was the first African-American woman to hold a U.S.
ambassadorship and the first African-American woman to
serve as a member of a presidential Cabinet.
Wilkins advocated tirelessly for racial equality. In 1931
Wilkins joined the NAACP and led the organization from
1955 to 1977 as executive secretary and executive director. Under his leadership, the NAACP campaigned for the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965,
and the Fair Housing Act of 1968. Wilkins helped organize
the August 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, during which he also delivered a speech.
Hughes is acclaimed for his vivid portrayals of black
America from the Harlem Renaissance to the Civil Rights
era. A noted poet, novelist, and playwright, he is regarded
as one of the most important writers of the 20th century.
His poems embraced radical politics, poverty, prejudice,
violence, and a host of other socioeconomic issues that
chronicle the African-American experience.
Marshall is one of the best known lawyers in the history
of civil rights in America. In 1954 Marshall and his legal
team prevailed in the landmark Supreme Court case
"Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas" that
struck down segregation in public schools. He was the
first African American to serve as a U.S. Supreme Court
Justice.
Robeson is remembered not only for his extraordinary
talents as an actor, singer, and athlete but also for his tireless and uncompromising commitment to civil rights and
social justice. His talent as a singer helped establish
African-American spirituals as a legitimate art form. In
addition to his famous repertoire of spirituals, Robeson
became well-known for performing and interpreting folk
songs from around the world. His posthumous honors reflect his wide range of accomplishments: In 1978 he was
honored by the United Nations for his opposition to apartheid in South Africa, in 1995 he was inducted in the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 1998 he received a
Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement.
[Use talking points for speeches at local ceremonies and
events to support Black History Month/Paul Robeson
stamp.]
This month we celebrate Black History Month, reflecting on the progress, richness, and diversity of African-
American achievements.
Although February is devoted to Black History Month,
every month is a celebration as we continually pay homage to the African Americans who were instrumental in
shaping America's history.
This year, the Postal Service celebrates the 27th anniversary of the Black Heritage stamp series and Paul Robeson commemorative stamp. Robeson joins 26 other
honorees in the Postal Service's Black Heritage series,
which salutes outstanding African-American activists, theorists, writers, educators, and leaders.
Paul Robeson was one of the most popular and well-
known African-American public figures in the world.
Robeson is remembered not only for his extraordinary talents as an actor, singer, and athlete but also for his tireless and uncompromising commitment to civil rights and
social justice. His talent as a singer helped establish
African-American spirituals as a legitimate art form. In
addition to his famous repertoire of spirituals, Robeson
became well-known for performing and interpreting folk
songs from around the world, many included on his classic album, Ballad for Americans. "Ol' Man River" from the
musical Showboat, became his signature song. Robeson
played many stage roles in his career, but he was best
known for his interpretation of the title character in Shakespeare's Othello.
Other notable Americans honored in the Black Heritage stamp series include Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther
King, Jr., Jackie Robinson, Carter G. Woodson, Mary
McLeod Bethune, Bessie Coleman, Ernest E. Just, Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., Madam C. J. Walker, Malcolm X, Patricia Roberts Harris, Roy Wilkins, Langston Hughes, and
Thurgood Marshall, who was honored in January 2003.
African Americans have played a vital role in shaping
America's history, and the U.S. Postal Service is committed to educate and inform America regarding their
achievements and contributions.
There have been numerous e-mail rumors and newspaper articles stating that the U.S. Postal Service will discontinue the Black Heritage stamp series. This is absolutely untrue! It is unfortunate such rumors continue to
spread. We are sincerely committed to honoring African
Americans on stamps: given the popularity and importance of the Black Heritage stamps, there are no plans to
discontinue the series.
Learning about our history and notable African Americans through stamps can help us learn more about
today's world and ourselves.
We encourage children and adults to continually learn
about black history and African Americans on stamps.
There is a phenomenal story behind every commemorative stamp - stories that can take us back in time to learn
about great Americans and to help us relive moments in
the past - moments that we cherish.
For more than 200 years the Postal Service has been
a shining example of a public service institution that the
American people can rely on and trust. But in many ways,
it's our commemorative stamp program that best connects the Postal Service with the American people.
This month, we hope children and adults of all ages will
be participating in Black History Month activities around
the country.
Thanks to all of you for joining us here today.
# # #
Note: If you have questions or need assistance with
any of these items, please contact your area's Public Affairs and Communications representative.
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Action:
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Suggested Timing:
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1. Send invitations to local
and area dignitaries.
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A few weeks before
event.
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2. Send announcement and
invitations to employees.
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A few weeks before
event.
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3. Distribute public service
announcement to radio/TV.
|
A few weeks before
event.
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4. Distribute news release.
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A few weeks before
event.
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5. Distribute media advisory to
newspapers, radio/TV.
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1 week before event.
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6. Remind invited dignitaries
about event via telephone.
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5 days before event.
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7. Redistribute media
advisory to all news media.
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1 to 2 days before
event.
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8. Make follow-up calls to
local news media.
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1 day before event.
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9. Distribute day-of-issuance
news release.
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Day of event.
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10. Send letter to newspaper
editor thanking community.
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1 day after event's
completion.
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11. Send newspaper clips
and "media successes"
summary to area Public
Affairs managers.
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Within 1 week after
event.
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EARL ARTIS
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
SOUTHEAST AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
225 NORTH HUMPHREY BLVD 5TH FL
MEMPHIS TN 38166-0832
Telephone: 678-442-6018
CESTA AYERS
(A) MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
SOUTHWEST AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
7800 N STEMMONS FWY STE 450
DALLAS TX 75247-4220
Telephone: 214-819-8717
SCOTT BUDNY
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
WESTERN AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
1745 STOUT ST STE 1075
DENVER CO 80299-7500
Telephone: 303-313-5130
DEBRA HAWKINS
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
NORTHEAST AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
6 GRIFFIN RD N
WINDSOR CT 06006-9876
Telephone: 860-285-7265
DAVID MAZER
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
PACIFIC AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
7001 S CENTRAL AVE RM 364A
LOS ANGELES CA 90052-9641
Telephone: 323-586-1210
JIM MRUK
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
GREAT LAKES AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
244 KNOLLWOOD DR 4TH FLOOR
BLOOMINGDALE IL 60117-2208
Telephone: 630-539-6565
PAUL SMITH
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
EASTERN AREAUS POSTAL SERVICE
PO BOX 40593
PHILADELPHIA PA 19197-0593
Telephone: 215-931-5054
DIANE TODD
MANAGER PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS
NY METRO AREA US POSTAL SERVICE
421 EIGHTH AVE RM 5114
NEW YORK NY 10199-9681
Telephone: 212-330-3167
DEBORAH YACKLEY
COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM SPECIALIST
CAPITAL METRO OPERATION
16501 SHADY GROVE
GAITHERSBURG MD 20898-9998
Telephone: 301-548-1465
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR RADIO
Public Invited to Participate in Celebration of Black History Month and Dedication of
Paul Robeson Stamp
[INSERT CITY] postmaster [INSERT NAME] invites everyone to [INSERT LOCATION] to participate in activities surrounding the Postal Service'sTM celebration of Black History Month and the unveiling of the 2004 Black Heritage stamp featuring Paul Robeson, on [INSERT DAY AND DATE]
from [INSERT TIME] to [INSERT TIME].
On that day children and adults will learn more about black history and African Americans on
stamps. Activities include [DESCRIBE ACTIVITIES].
Come take a moment to celebrate African-American history with stamps. It's an educational way
to learn about the historic people, places, and events honored on U.S. postage stamps each year.
- end -
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION IN [INSERT CITY]
FEATURES AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY ON STAMPS
Tribute Given to the Anniversary of the Black Heritage Stamp Series and 2004 Honoree
Paul Robeson
Paul Robeson, singer, actor, athlete and activist, became the 27th American honored in the long-
running Black Heritage series. The stamp will be issued on Jan. 20, 2004.
The celebration comes to [INSERT CITY] with a special ceremony scheduled for [INSERT EXACT TIME OF EVENT] on [INSERT DATE] at the [INSERT NAME OF POST OFFICE, LIBRARY,
SCHOOL, MUSEUM, ETC. WHERE EVENT IS HELD].
[INSERT EVENT AGENDA]
[INSERT QUOTE FROM USPS UNVEILING OFFICIAL]
[INSERT QUOTE FROM ORGANIZATION OFFICIAL YOU ARE WORKING WITH]
[FEEL FREE TO USE THE FOLLOWING BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND
CUSTOMIZE FOR INSERTION INTO YOUR RELEASE] Robeson joins 26 other honorees
in the Postal Service'sTM Black Heritage series, which salutes outstanding
African-American activists, theorists, writers, educators and leaders. Other
notable Americans in the series include Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King,
Jr., Benjamin Banneker, Jackie Robinson, Carter G. Woodson, Mary McLeod Bethune,
W.E.B. Du Bois, Bessie Coleman, Ernest E. Just, Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., Madam
C.J. Walker, Malcolm X (El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz), Patricia Roberts Harris,
Roy Wilkins, Langston Hughes, and Thurgood Marshall, who was honored in January
2003.
Robeson was born on April 9, 1898, in Princeton, N.J. His broad range of talents was evident as
early as high school, where he was an outstanding student and athlete. In 1915, he entered Rutgers
College (now Rutgers University) on a scholarship and became the third African American to attend
the school. He graduated as class valedictorian in 1919. Robeson was a member of Phi Beta Kappa
and was an All-American football player.
From 1920 to 1923, Robeson helped pay his way through Columbia Law School in New York City
by working as an athlete and a performer. He played professional football, served as assistant football coach at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, and starred in the 1922 play Taboo in New York and
in London (where it was renamed Voodoo).
After graduating from law school, Robeson briefly worked in a law firm, but he resigned after a
white secretary refused to take dictation from him. By 1924, he had devoted himself to his career as
a performer, playing hit lead roles in productions of two Eugene O'Neill plays: All God's Chillun Got
Wings and The Emperor Jones. He played numerous stage roles during his career, but he was best
known for his interpretation of the title character in Shakespeare's Othello.
Robeson was renowned worldwide for his talents as a singer, which helped establish African-
American spirituals as a legitimate art form. In addition to his famous repertoire of spirituals, Robeson became well-known for performing and interpreting folk songs from around the world. "Ol' Man
River," from the musical Showboat, became his signature song.
Between 1925 and 1942, Robeson also appeared in several American and British movies, including The Emperor Jones, Show Boat, King Solomon's Mines, Jericho, and his favorite, The Proud
Valley. His image became the personification of human dignity. Discouraged by the limited roles
available to black actors in Hollywood, Robeson announced in 1942 that he would no longer appear
in films.
Well known as an activist, Robeson was an outspoken participant in labor and peace movements,
and his public appearances were infused with his strong political beliefs, especially his principled
stand against racism in the U.S. and around the world. He was opposed to colonialism in Africa and
worked to assist and support African liberation movements. Alarmed by the spread of fascism in Europe, Robeson was also a prominent supporter of the Allied war effort during World War II. In 1945,
the NAACP awarded him its highest honor for achievement among African Americans, the prestigious Spingarn Medal.
Robeson died Jan. 23, 1976, at the age of 78. His posthumous honors reflect his wide range of
accomplishments: In 1978 he was honored by the United Nations for his opposition to apartheid in
South Africa, in 1995 he was inducted in the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 1998 he received
a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement. Many schools, community centers and theaters have
been named for him, as well as numerous academic and cultural institutions.
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT YOUR NAME]
[INSERT DATE] [INSERT YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
Internet: www.usps.com
MEDIA ADVISORY
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION IN [INSERT CITY]
HIGHLIGHTS ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS ON STAMPS
EVENT: The U.S. Postal ServiceŽ teams up with [FILL IN NAMES OF ORGANIZATIONS OR PERSONS] for a Black History Month celebration and the unveiling of the Paul Robeson commemorative stamp, the 27th honoree in the Black
Heritage series. [CHANGE OR ADD TO THIS INFO IF YOUR EVENT IS DIFFERENT, BUT KEEP IT SHORT]
WHO: [LIST ONLY DIGNITARIES, KEY POSTAL OFFICIALS, AND ANY WELL-
KNOWN SPECIAL GUESTS PARTICIPATING AND/OR ATTENDING EVENT]
WHAT: [Describe what makes event newsworthy - list any entertainment, refreshments, sales, etc.]
WHEN: [Insert hour, day, date]
WHERE: [Insert exact location of event]
BACKGROUND: Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Paul Robeson was one of the most popular
and well-known African-American public figures in the world. Robeson is remembered not only for his extraordinary talents as an actor, singer and athlete
but also for his tireless and uncompromising commitment to civil rights and
social justice. His talent as a singer helped establish African-American spirituals
as a legitimate art form. In addition to his famous repertoire of spirituals, Robeson became well-known for performing and interpreting folk songs from around
the world, many included on his classic album, Ballad for Americans. "Ol' Man
River" from the musical Showboat became his signature song. Robeson played
many stage roles in his career, but he was best known for his interpretation of
the title character in Shakespeare's Othello.
CONTACT: [LIST AREA PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNICATIONS REPRESENTATIVE
OR POSTMASTER'S NAME AND PHONE NUMBER]
# # #
SAMPLE LETTER TO LOCAL NEWSPAPER EDITOR THANKING RESIDENTS FOR SUPPORT
[INSERT DATE]
[INSERT NAME]
[INSERT TITLE]
[INSERT NAME OF PUBLICATION]
[INSERT ADDRESS]
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
Dear [INSERT TITLE AND NAME]:
I want to thank the citizens of [INSERT CITY NAME] for their enthusiasm and support in making
yesterday's Black History Month celebration such a successful event for our community and for the U.S.
Postal ServiceŽ.
African Americans have played a vital role in shaping America's history. The U.S. Postal Service
continues its commitment to honoring the historical achievements and contributions of noted African-
American leaders, inventors, educators, scientists, entrepreneurs, entertainers and sports figures. The
Black Heritage series stamp, along with other stamps, pay tribute to these individuals.
Our nation's commemorative stamp program has been developed over the past 100 years largely
through the participation of the American people. Their stamp ideas and suggestions are instrumental
in helping the Postal Service TM honor some of the greatest achievements and achievers who have made
our country great.
Again, thanks to everyone in our community who participated in our Black History Month celebration.
We hope everyone enjoyed celebrating African-American history with stamps.
Sincerely,
[SIGN]
[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
U.S. Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
Black History Month events are a perfect opportunity to
involve elected public officials in an important and positive
local event. They are likely to have a keen interest in the
event, as it provides elected representatives a chance to
interact with constituents in a friendly, civic setting with secured media coverage.
You are encouraged to reach out directly to your federal, state, and local elected officials. Government Relations
representatives are available to assist you in coordinating
political involvement and would be pleased to help in any
way.
This Black History Month Community Relations publicity kit contains simple guidelines, sample letters, a suggested invitation list, and the names and telephone numbers of your Government Relations contacts.
Send a written invitation 4 to 6 weeks before the
event to your two U.S. senators, your congressional representatives, the governor of your state and the mayor of
your community. Please include any other local elected
officials you feel would be appropriate. The local postmaster should sign the invitations.
Follow up the written invitation with a telephone call to
the elected official's scheduler within a week if you have
not received a reply. You may need to call more than
once.
Keep in touch with all elected officials who respond. If
asked, provide updated information to the elected official's staff as it becomes available (e.g., who else is participating, where and when to meet, what his or her role
will be, etc.). Stress that remarks should be brief and limited to the unveiling of the Paul Robeson stamp and his
achievements, and Black Heritage stamps and recognition of the role the U.S. Postal Service continually plays in
celebrating African-American history with stamps.
Include names of all participating elected officials on
the "official program" as honored guests, and mention
them in all media advisories, if applicable.
Provide a courtesy copy of the program to the
elected official in advance.
Send a written thank-you letter to all elected officials
who participated in the ceremony, expressing your appreciation.
Provide copies to their offices of any newspaper articles about the event. Even though they might see those
articles on their own, you can take the opportunity to remind them of the press coverage the event received.
Provide a supply of extra cachets with the special
cancellation, if applicable, to elected officials, even to
those who could not attend. These make great giveaways
and serve as a positive reminder of the event.
Obtain and frame a photo of the elected official posing beside the stamp image and make an appointment to
present it in person, if possible. A matted, well-framed
photograph stands a good chance of being hung on the
wall of the official's office, again serving as a positive reminder of the event.
Keep in touch with your elected officials. Good relationships are built over time.
# # #
SAMPLE INVITATION TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS/PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS
[INSERT DATE]
[INSERT NAME]
[INSERT TITLE]
[INSERT ORGANIZATION]
[INSERT ADDRESS]
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
Dear [INSERT TITLE AND NAME]:
Employees of the [INSERT NAME] Post OfficeTM invite you to be an honored guest at a special
ceremony celebrating Black History Month on [DATE] at [TIME]. During our ceremony, the United States
Postal ServiceŽ will dedicate the Paul Robeson commemorative stamp [OR stamps IF DEDICATING
ENTIRE SERIES AND/OR Black Heritage series].
The Postal Service TM values its role as a community leader, and we believe that our commemorative
stamp program gives us an opportunity to connect with customers in a very personal and entertaining
way. During our ceremony, children and adults alike will have an opportunity to learn about the achievements and contributions of African-American leaders, inventors, educators, scientists, entrepreneurs,
entertainers, and sports figures.
At the stamp ceremony, you will be invited to say a few words about the Paul Robeson stamp [AND/OR
Black Heritage series] and any comments you may have about African-American history. We expect
significant press coverage of the ceremony and a good size crowd, including families, schools, and civic
organizations.
We hope you will join us for our stamp dedication and special Black History Month celebration. Please
confirm your participation by calling [NAME OF CONTACT] at [TELEPHONE NUMBER] as soon as
possible.
Sincerely,
[SIGN]
[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
U.S. Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
SAMPLE THANK-YOU LETTER TO PUBLIC OFFICIALS/PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS
[INSERT DATE]
[INSERT NAME]
[INSERT TITLE]
[INSERT ORGANIZATION]
[INSERT ADDRESS]
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
Dear [INSERT TITLE AND NAME]:
On behalf of the United States Postal ServiceŽ, I want to thank you for joining us during our special
ceremony celebrating Black History Month and the dedication of the Paul Robeson commemorative
postage stamp [AND/OR Black Heritage series]. It was a wonderful event for [INSERT NAME OF
COMMUNITY], and your participation helped make it a success.
All of us in the Postal Service TM are extremely proud of the role our organization has played as a
community leader and in commemorating many of the people, places, and events that have made our
country great. The stamp dedication ceremony was a wonderful way for us to share African-American
history on stamps with our friends, neighbors, children, and customers here in [INSERT NAME OF
COMMUNITY]. I am enclosing 10 copies of our special cancellation [IF APPLICABLE] for you to share
with your constituents, as well as copies of press clippings and photographs that recorded the event [IF
APPLICABLE].
I look forward to working with you on future community events. If I can be of assistance with any postal
matter, please contact me at [TELEPHONE NUMBER].
Sincerely,
[SIGN]
[INSERT POSTMASTER'S NAME]
Postmaster
U.S. Postal Service
[INSERT CITY, STATE, ZIP+4]
We can help! Your Government Relations
representatives are here to serve you. We can assist you in contacting and
inviting elected officials to participate in your event - please let us know.
Area code and prefix for all extensions is
202-268-XXXX.
| State
|
Name
|
Telephone
No. |
| Alabama |
Laurie Solnik
|
x 3743 |
| Alaska |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| American Samoa
|
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Arizona |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Arkansas |
Renee Gadson
|
x 7217 |
| California |
Bill Weagley
|
x 3745 |
| Connecticut |
Jo Waterman |
x 6748 |
| Colorado |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Delaware |
JO Waterman |
x 6748 |
| District of Columbia
|
Rebecca Sumner
|
x 3755 |
| Florida |
Laurie Solnik
|
x 3743 |
| Georgia |
Bill Weagley
|
x 3745 |
| Guam |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Hawaii |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Idaho |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Illinois |
Jennifer Alvarez
|
x 7839 |
| Indiana |
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Iowa |
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Kansas |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Kentucky |
Paul Harrington
|
x 6029 |
| Louisiana |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Maine |
Katherine Sitterle
|
x 6027 |
| Maryland |
Rebecca Sumner
|
x 3755 |
| Massachusetts
|
JO Waterman |
x 6748 |
| Michigan |
Jennifer Alvarez
|
x 7839 |
| Minnesota |
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Mississippi |
Laurie Solnik
|
x 3743 |
| Missouri |
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Montana |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Nebraska |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Nevada |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| New Hampshire
|
JO Waterman |
x 6748 |
| New Jersey |
JO Waterman |
x 6748 |
| New Mexico |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| New York |
Katherine Sitterle
|
x 6027 |
| North Carolina
|
Bill Weagley
|
x 3745 |
| North Dakota
|
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Ohio |
Paul Harrington
|
x 6029 |
| Oklahoma |
Renee Gadson
|
x 7217 |
| Oregon |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Pennsylvania
|
Rebecca Sumner
|
x 3755 |
| Puerto Rico |
Katherine Sitterle
|
x 6027 |
| Rhode Island
|
JO Waterman |
x 6748 |
| South Carolina
|
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| South Dakota
|
Linda Macasa
|
x 7505 |
| Tennessee |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| Texas |
Renee Gadson
|
x 7217 |
| Utah |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
| Vermont |
Katherine Sitterle
|
x 6027 |
| Virgin Islands
|
Katherine Sitterle
|
x 6027 |
| Virginia |
Paul Harrington
|
x 6029 |
| Washington |
Talaya Simpson
|
x 3750 |
| West Virginia
|
Paul Harrington
|
x 6029 |
| Wisconsin |
Jennifer Alvarez
|
x 7839 |
| Wyoming |
Gerald Kreienkamp
|
x 3744 |
- Community Relations,
Public Affairs and Communications, 12-25-03
