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Jennifer Lopez, Capitol File Magazine and Viacom Honored Marian Wright Edelman at Democratic National Convention

Elected Officials, Policy Makers and Celebrities Gather in Support of Edelman's Fight for Children's Rights

DENVER, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Capitol File Magazine, Viacom and Jennifer Lopez, in cooperation with an honorary host committee, hosted a private reception to recognize Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children's Defense Fund (CDF) and lifelong advocate for disadvantaged Americans. Ms. Lopez and the event hosts honored Mrs. Edelman's efforts to provide a strong, effective voice for all the children of American who cannot vote, lobby or speak for themselves.

Honorary host committee members in town for the Democratic National Convention included Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico, Congressman Xavier Becerra (D-CA 31st), Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Janet Murguia, president of National Council of La Raza. The reception's featured speaker was US Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO).

"Judging from her long and successful record, Jennifer Lopez is truly a hero to all of us. She is truly the American dream," said US Senator Ken Salazar (D-CO).

Prior to the reception, Ms. Lopez and Mrs. Edelman sat down with Capitol File's editor-in-chief Sherry Moeller for an exclusive interview. Both talked about the importance of philanthropy and the power of celebrity to bring a focus to important issues such as the rights of children. The following are excerpts from the interview:

"We know how to care for children. We need to take things to scale, and stick with them. It's not right that we have impoverished children in the wealthiest nation in the world. It will be our moral and socio-economic Achilles heel. We can all make a difference," said Marian Wright Edelman. "We need to see every child is healthy, educated, and productive. This is America's future. This is a nation-defining election year. It is crucial children are our top priority."

"The world is a different place for me now that I've had children. I want to set an example for my children on how to live their lives. You have to instill that charitable, philanthropic spirit. Be loud. Vote for your children. Vote for your nation," said Jennifer Lopez during today's interview. "I realized I could be a lightning rod. I can bring attention to issues people aren't listening to. People sometimes have to be held under a fire to make a change."

"Today's reception with Jennifer Lopez honoring Marian Wright Edelman is what Capitol File is all about -- bringing together people who are making a difference," said Capitol File editor in chief Sherry Moeller. "Our exclusive interview with Jennifer Lopez and Marian Wright Edelman brings to the forefront the issues most important to them, which are children's rights. Capitol File readers are exactly who they want to reach and inspire, from congressional representatives to CEOs to philanthropists."

The interview and images from the reception will run in the October 2008 issue of Capitol File.

In its fourth decade, the CDF has become the nation's strongest voice for children and families, paying particular attention to the needs of poor and minority children and those with disabilities. Under Edelman's guidance and direction, the CDF has worked relentlessly to lift children out of poverty, protect them from abuse and neglect, and ensure their access to healthcare, quality education, and a moral and spiritual foundation.