Cardinal Wilton Gregory, first African-American cardinal, to speak at Headliners Luncheon, Sept. 8

Wilton Cardinal Gregory, seventh Archbishop of Washington and the first African-American Cardinal in the Catholic Church, will speak at a National Press Club Headliners Luncheon on Wednesday, Sept. 8. The event will be held in person in the Club’s Ballroom.

Cardinal Gregory was elevated to the College of Cardinals in November 2020, becoming the highest-ranking African- American Catholic in history. He serves as a close advisor to Pope Francis and is a leading voice in the Catholic Church for racial and social justice, immigration reform, and numerous life issues that challenge our unity in our shared humanity and ability to treat each other with dignity and respect.

Tickets cost $25 for National Press Club members and can be purchased online. 

In 2002, as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, he led the church’s response to its clergy sex abuse crisis, presiding over the adoption of the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People,” a binding national policy of zero-tolerance in addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. The Charter also includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention of future acts of abuse. 

Please note that for in-person events, members, guests and visitors are required to show proof of vaccination at the entrance to the Club.  This can be a physical copy of your vaccination card, or a photo of it on your mobile device.  If you cannot show proof of vaccination, you must show a recent negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours).

Upload your vaccination record in advance of the event. More information about Club safety measures is available online.