The following is June Colbert Bowman-Sims first, (year 2006), annual listing of the ten most distinguished African-Americans who are keeping Hope Alive by instituting change for the betterment of Society.
Original Art Piece 'Separate Self' Created by the Fiction Queen
"We are embracing our 'Separate Selves', while reaching deep into our total being to identify members of our ethnic group, who have been on the battle field over the many years, in order to open the doors of opportunity by levelling the playing field; when this is done, then, we will finally began to live the American Dream." June Colbert Bowman-Sims
1. President Rainbow Push 
Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.: Keep Hope Alive Radio, 1690 A.M., Sunday mornings, and the broadcast of the Saturday morning broadcast of, (People United to Serve Humanity, PUSH). The name of these programs are enough to secure the number one spot this year. However, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. works tirelessly for us all. He also provides education and training sessions to those who are interested in developing new skills. Many call Jesse's efforts photo-ops. I call them God sent. Congratulations are extended to Rev. Jackson.
2. The First Political Clinic
Cook County Commissioner/ Acting President Cook County Board Bobbie Steele: She earned this spot by giving us all the best lesson in politics. I have not seen the game played to perfection before. Who would have thought that it was possible for a Cook County Commissioner to perform the job of the President of the County Board for a few months and double her pension. I'm proud to know that there are other paths that women can take to be confortable in their retirement. Finally, money stress doesn't enter the picture. Bobbie, what a pension. 
3. House of Hope
Rev./ State Senator James Trent Meeks: Pastor of Salem Baptist Church in Chicago: He invites everyone to visit and join his congregation in the House Of Hope. This is the place one should go in order to reach out for the American Dream. Rev. Meeks is very supportive of his Congregation.
4. President Cook County Board
Todd Stroger, President Cook County Board elect: He displayed a mild tempered, undaunting demeaner, during his run for the top job. He is the youngest man to win this position in a County wide race, and behind his baby face lives an upcoming strong African-American man. Our children finally has a political role model.
5. House of Justice
Rev. Al Sharpton: He brings attention to the injustices that haunts and follows members of our Ethnic Group. Who are you going to call when you are involved in our Criminal Justice System and you feel you have nowhere to turn for support? Check out Al, he will "Keep it Real".
6. The Educator
Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Pastor Trinity United Church of Christ: He is the teacher who has built an institution that supports educational growth and development of a people who has been deprived by the system.
7. Vision for Change
Melody Spann-Cooper, President WVON Radio: She has created a 24 hour talk show that permits African-Americans to voice their opinions and share their thoughts and ideas. This is the first step to bringing together a people who have not been able to become unified for centuries.
8. Providing Leadership for the youth
William Beavers, Retired Police Officer, Retired Alderman, Cook County Commissioner, elect: If I had someone like Beavers to mentor me, I would be to hot to handle. Todd needs support from his staff. Who is better for that job than Beavers. Also, Bobbie is said to have signed on in a consulting role for the renumeration of $1.00. Thank you guys for being there for the brother. Your presence will make it difficult for others to sabotage the system.
9. Improving Economic Status
Alderman Dorothy Tillman: Keeping the fight alive for Reparations.
10. Philanthropist
Oprah Winfrey - Queen of Talk Television. She has used her wealth to reach out to those less fortunate that has extended across continents.
