BETHESDA, Md., Sept. 22, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott
International has announced its partnership with the Smithsonian
National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC),
and its role as the grand opening hospitality sponsor. To kick off
the weekend, Friday, September 23,
2016, Marriott International is hosting EncouragHERS, a
luncheon recognizing women of character, courage and commitment,
hosted by Common, with a performance by Grammy-nominated
singer-songwriter Jazmine Sullivan.
The celebratory event will shine a light on the contributions of
women to the African American community and their role in making
the new museum a reality.
"The National Museum of African American History and Culture has
been a long time in the making, and all of us at Marriott
International are truly honored to be kicking off the weekend with
the EncouragHERS luncheon," said Erika
Alexander, chief lodging services officer, the Americas at
Marriott International. "EncouragHERS are the women who recognize
when their communities need her support, when their protégés need
encouragement, when their families need her strength or when
friends just need an ear, act as an inspiration to us all, and
that's why Marriott is here to say thank you."
The EncouragHERS luncheon will recognize the influence and
brilliance of women who use their energy to uplift and empower
women leaders from across all industries of business,
entertainment, sports, politics and more. Each attendee has
demonstrated support for the African American community or made
impactful contributions to NMAAHC, which reflects Marriott
International's 80+ year commitment to diversity and inclusion.
"I am looking forward to being a part of this incredible event
with Marriott International and the National Museum of African
American History and Culture, celebrating the contributions of
strong African American women and kicking off such an important and
historic weekend in Washington,
D.C.," said Oscar and Grammy winning artist Common. "As the
son of a single mother, I am proud to honor the women who came
before us, and to do my part to nurture future generations of
strong African American women."
The opening of the National Museum of African American History
and Culture provides the opportunity for Marriott International to
welcome guests traveling from here and around the world to witness
the historic opening of the Smithsonian's newest cultural
institution. Marriott International looks forward to hosting
Washington, D.C. visitors for
years to come, as the museum continues to be a sought-after
destination. Visit www.marriott.com/NMAAHC and follow the Marriott
International Twitter and Instagram handles (@MarriottIntl) for
additional information about EncouragHERS and Marriott
International's support for the National Museum of African American
History and Culture.
About National Museum of African American History and
Culture
The National Museum of African American History and
Culture was established as the 19th Smithsonian museum by an Act of
Congress through legislation signed into law by President
George W. Bush in 2003.
Groundbreaking occurred in 2012. The museum occupies a prime
location in Washington, D.C., on
the National Mall at the corner of Constitution Avenue at 14th
Street, across from the Washington Monument. Opening Sept. 24, the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum
will be the nation's largest and most comprehensive cultural
destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and
showcasing the African American experience.
About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott
International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging
company based in Bethesda, Md.,
USA, with more than 4,500 properties in 88 countries and
territories. Marriott International reported revenues of more
than $14 billion in fiscal year 2015.
The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation
ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®,
Bulgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection®, Hotels,
Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels by Marriott™,
Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord
Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®,
SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace
Suites®, Protea Hotels by Marriott® and MoxySM
Hotels. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top
employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also
manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards®
and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together comprise more
than 57 million members. For more information or reservations,
please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest
company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.
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