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PUBLIC RELATIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OCTOBER 11, 2000

PROMOTERS AGAINST RACISM WITHIN THE TALENT AGENCY INDUSTRY ESCALATE PROTEST,

OCCUPY ATRIUM OF CREATIVE ARTISTS AGENCY

Beverly Hills, CA - The Black Promoters of America, led by veteran civil rights leader, Rev. Joseph Lowery, escalated their protests during a civil demonstration at the headquarters of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), Tuesday, October 10 when they moved indoors and occupied the atrium of the building. Beverly Hills Police converged on the demonstrators but avoided arrests as the protestors engaged in discussions with CAA representatives and police. One promoter, Arthur Robinson, from Jacksonville, FL, was handcuffed and placed under arrest, only to be released when Lowery informed officers that “if one person goes, we all go!”

The marchers plan to continue their picketing through Friday. “We want to make sure that CAA gets the message that we will not relent until litigation is completed, or the company comes to the table to negotiate a settlement, “ cites Rev. Lowery.

The Black Promoters Association has filed a $700 million lawsuit against CAA, the William Morris Agency and several other agencies, charging racial discrimination and anti-trust law violations. Some smaller promoters and agencies have since initiated discussions.

Neither Creative Artists Agency nor the Williams Morris Agency has expressed interest in settling, but a tentative meeting is scheduled with CAA’s attorneys and those of the Black Promoters of America for Thursday, (10/12). The promoters plan to target the New York office of the William Morris Agency next week

Note to Media: Photos available upon request.