SPECIAL 75TH DIAMOND OASC CITY-WIDE roundtable discussion
Marc Brown, moderator
For more than three decades, Marc Brown has been a trusted voice in Los Angeles, delivering the news with integrity, depth, and a commitment to the truth. As the Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC7 Eyewitness News, he has reported on the most pivotal moments in Southern California and beyond, bringing communities together through compelling storytelling and journalistic excellence.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Marc’s journey into journalism was fueled by a deep love for storytelling and a responsibility to uplift voices that often go unheard. He earned his degree in Broadcast Journalism and Political Science from the University of Southern California (USC), setting the foundation for a career that would blend sharp reporting, cultural awareness, and an unwavering commitment to truth.
Since joining ABC7 in 1989, Marc has climbed the ranks from reporter to weekend anchor and now co-anchors the station’s 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts. Along the way, he has covered some of the most defining events in modern history—providing live, in-depth coverage of major political elections, natural disasters, and moments of social justice reckoning.
Beyond the newsroom, Marc’s impact extends far beyond the anchor desk. His presence in community discussions, mentorship programs, and civic initiatives reflects his belief that journalism isn’t just about reporting the news—it’s about shaping the future.
From advocating for Black history education to amplifying stories that need to be heard, Marc Brown remains a respected figure in media and beyond. Whether he’s behind the news desk or in the heart of the community, his presence commands respect, inspires action, and reinforces the power of storytelling to drive change.
Roundtable guests
Dr. Daniel “Danny" K. Tabor
Dr. Daniel “Danny" K. Tabor has dedicated his life to public service, leadership, and advocacy. Elected to Inglewood City Council at 26, he served for 12 years before returning in 2007 and becoming Mayor in 2010. His federal service includes working as Southern California Liaison for the U.S. Department of Commerce, directing economic recovery efforts. A key force behind Measures R and M, he helped secure $90 billion for transit and 465,000 jobs. He also co-led a $500M Community Benefits Agreement with LAX. As President of MoveLA, he champions public transit, affordable housing, and environmental equity. An educator in the Los Angeles Community College District, he supports workforce development and public health informatics. His academic achievements include a doctorate in Educational Leadership from CSULB and degrees from Springfield College. He serves on the Coastal Conservation Association Board and actively engages in policy and community development. A life member of Kappa Alpha Psi and a devoted family man, he continues to shape California’s future through education, advocacy, and leadership. His contributions span government, business, and community development, always with a focus on equity, sustainability, and economic empowerment.
Yvonne Wheeler
Yvonne Wheeler’s journey is a testament to resilience, breaking barriers, and fighting for justice. From marching for civil rights as a high school student in segregated Louisiana to becoming the first Black woman President of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, she has consistently challenged inequality. As a telephone operator, she fought racial discrimination. Seeing too few Black leaders in labor, she created mentorship programs to train the next generation.
Her impact extends beyond labor, bridging workers' rights and civil rights. As President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute, she mobilized communities to defeat anti-labor legislation and advocated for Black leadership in unions. Her work with AFL-CIO, AFSCME, and AFGE has uplifted working families nationwide, and her mentorship has built a lasting legacy of empowered leaders.
Now, as Honorary and General Chair of the 75th Anniversary African American Heritage
Month Citywide Celebration in 2025, Wheeler continues to unite communities and celebrate Black achievement. As First Executive Vice President of the California Federation of Labor and Vice Chair of the California Democratic Party Labor Caucus, she ensures the fight for justice continues. A leader, mother, and grandmother, Wheeler’s courage and dedication create lasting change.
Sydney Berrard
Sydney Berrard has been a driving force within Local 105 of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART), embodying the principles of strength, unity, and progress. A skilled sheet metal worker and a relentless advocate for labor rights, Berrard has spent years fighting to improve wages, job security, and working conditions for all members.
Berrard’s leadership within Local 105 has been marked by a commitment to mentorship, contract negotiations, and the expansion of training programs that ensure the next generation of workers is well-equipped for the industry. His efforts have played a crucial role in securing better protections for union members, making the workplace safer and more equitable for all.
Beyond the shop floor, Berrard has worked tirelessly to build solidarity across different trades and industries, advocating for policies that benefit workers on a broader scale. His dedication to fostering community engagement and strengthening union participation has helped create a more empowered and united workforce.
Lori Condinus
Lori Condinus is a dedicated labor negotiator and civil rights activist committed to social justice, workers’ rights, and community empowerment. Her advocacy began in 1986 as a PBX Operator at the Anaheim Hilton, where she became a shop steward fighting for fair wages and better conditions. Rising through UNITE HERE Local 11, she served as Vice President, negotiating contracts and organizing hospitality workers.
In 2010, after over 20 years with UNITE HERE, Lori transitioned to AFSCME District Council 36 as a Business Representative, advocating for fair contracts and better conditions for municipal employees in Los Angeles. Her leadership in labor negotiations ensured fair wages and protections for public sector workers.
Beyond labor advocacy, Lori is a passionate civil rights leader. She became actively involved with the National Action Network (NAN) Los Angeles chapter, leading grassroots initiatives for racial and economic justice. Eventually elected President of NAN Los Angeles, she continues to champion equity, policy change, and community mobilization.
Throughout her career, Lori has remained steadfast in her mission to empower workers and build equitable communities. Whether negotiating contracts or leading activism, her unwavering dedication continues to create lasting change.
Gerald Durant
Gerald Durant: Advocate, Firefighter, and Champion for Diversity in the LAFD
For over three decades, Gerald Durant has dedicated his life to public service—both as a firefighter and as a relentless advocate for racial equality within the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). A retired LAFD Inspector, Durant has been at the forefront of efforts to combat discrimination, uplift underrepresented firefighters, and build a more inclusive fire service.
As the President of the Los Angeles City Stentorians, an organization founded in 1954 to fight racial discrimination in the fire service, Durant has played a key role in mentoring and empowering aspiring firefighters. Under his leadership, the Stentorians have expanded beyond their original mission of supporting African Americans in the fire department to fostering diversity and equity for all. Through training programs, career development, and community outreach, Durant ensures that future generations of firefighters—regardless of race or gender—have the resources and support they need to succeed.
Beyond advocacy, Durant has worked tirelessly to ensure the LAFD reflects the diverse communities it serves. His passion for justice, mentorship, and leadership continues to inspire young recruits and seasoned firefighters alike. With the motto “Keep the Fire Burning for Justice,” Durant and the Stentorians remain committed to creating a more inclusive and progressive fire service for all.
Georgia Flowers-Lee
Georgia Flowers-Lee has been an educator with the Los Angeles Unified School District for 22 years, dedicating her career to working with special needs students. Born in Belize, she moved to New York at 13 before settling in Los Angeles, attending Berendo Junior High and North Hollywood High. Teaching is her second career, following 12 years as an investigator for the California State Bar, where she handled cases of attorney misconduct.
Her passion for education ignited when she began as a substitute teacher. Something clicked in the classroom, and she found her calling working with students on the autism spectrum at Saturn Elementary, where she has remained throughout her LAUSD career. Raised in a home where social and racial justice were central, Georgia views collective action as essential to balancing systemic inequalities. On the day she signed her teaching contract, she also joined UTLA, recognizing the power of union advocacy.
Her leadership journey began when her school’s chapter chair saw her potential and encouraged her to step up. Since then, she has served as UTLA cluster leader, steering committee member, Board of Directors member, and West Area Chair before being elected UTLA NEA Vice President in 2023.
Georgia is inspired by UTLA members’ solidarity and their ability to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable. She takes pride in the collective action that has won major victories, from the 2019 UTLA strike to the 2023 Solidarity strike, ensuring a better future for educators, students, and communities.
Patsy Howard
Lori Condinus is a dedicated labor negotiator and civil rights activist committed to social justice and workers’ rights. Her advocacy began in 1986 as a PBX Operator at the Anaheim Hilton, where she became a shop steward fighting for fair wages and better conditions. Rising through UNITE HERE Local 11, she served as Vice President, negotiating contracts and organizing hospitality workers.
In 2010, after over 20 years with UNITE HERE, Lori transitioned to AFSCME District Council 36 as a Business Representative, advocating for fair contracts and better conditions for municipal employees in Los Angeles. Her leadership in labor negotiations ensured fair wages and protections for public sector workers.
Beyond labor advocacy, Lori is a passionate civil rights leader. She became actively involved with the National Action Network (NAN) Los Angeles chapter, leading grassroots initiatives for racial and economic justice. Eventually elected President of NAN Los Angeles, she continues to champion equity, policy change, and community mobilization.
Throughout her career, Lori has remained steadfast in her mission to empower workers and build equitable communities. Whether negotiating contracts or leading activism, her unwavering dedication continues to create lasting change.
Dr. Maulana Karenga
Dr. Maulana Karenga offers invaluable insights on African Americans and labor, emphasizing cultural empowerment and ethical frameworks. His expertise in Black intellectual and political culture since the 1960s provides historical context for labor struggles and the intersection of civil rights and workers' rights. As the creator of Kawaida philosophy, he highlights the role of cultural identity in labor movements, workplace dynamics, and economic justice.
A leading scholar and activist, Dr. Karenga has shaped movements from Black Power to Afrocentricity. His analysis explores ethical leadership, sustainable community-based support systems, and education’s role in labor empowerment. Rooted in Maatian principles, his frameworks promote workplace equity, cooperative economics, and collective responsibility.
As a professor and chair of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach, he holds two Ph.D.s and has authored 17 books, including Introduction to Black Studies and Maat, The Moral Ideal in Ancient Egypt. He is also the creator of Kwanzaa and the Nguzo Saba, which provide guiding principles for economic and social empowerment.
Dr. Karenga’s lifelong dedication to scholarship, activism, and ethical leadership continues to shape discussions on labor, culture, and justice, making his contributions essential to understanding African American labor struggles and solutions.
Rev. Donald Wilson
Rev. Wilson’s journey embodies the intersection of faith, labor rights, and community activism in the African American experience. Born in Galveston, Texas, and raised in Los Angeles, he built a dual career in the culinary arts and ministry. After completing his chef training at Los Angeles Trade Technical College, he spent over 30 years at the prestigious Century Plaza Hotel, earning the Thurston Dupar Employee of the Year Award in 1991.
His call to ministry began in 1981, leading to his ordination in 1989 under Dr. W. M. Brent Sr. While serving as a pastor, he remained deeply committed to labor rights, advocating for workers as Organizing Director of Diversity with UNITE HERE and as Chaplain of Local 11 for 20 years.
In 2020, Rev. Wilson founded Black Hospitality Workers (B.H.W.), dedicated to addressing the unique challenges Black workers face in the hospitality industry. His extensive collaboration with organizations like NAN, SCLC, and the NAACP highlights his dedication to bridging labor and civil rights. His leadership continues to inspire, bringing historical knowledge and contemporary strategies to empower African American workers, ensuring they receive fair wages, career opportunities, and workplace dignity.