I write to express my deep and abiding support for Brian Copeland’s contributions to civil rights education and improving mutual respect and understanding across communities. In these difficult times, Brian’s commitment and passion are well received by audiences young and old and from all backgrounds. If you are exploring ways to undertake efforts in this important area, or to support others’, Brian will be a valuable partner to achieve progress and success.
Before President Obama appointed me as HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity, I had heard many positive things about Brian’s performances and written works. As Assistant Secretary, I was the chief fair housing law enforcer for the federal government with a staff of dedicated professionals in Washington, D.C. and field offices across the country and partners among state civil rights law enforcers and private, non-profit community and civil rights advocates and real estate professional associations.
After reading Not A Genuine Black Man, I knew that Brian’s story would be compelling to re-energize our staff in Washington, D.C. and our partners, particularly those who had struggled through a period prior to our administration when their work was considered less of a priority. Brian’s presentation at our National Fair Housing Conference in New Orleans was one of the conference’s highlights. Many of my colleagues remarked that Brian re-instilled in them why they went into public and community service in the first place. Subsequently, we brought him to Washington, D.C. for a HUD-wide speech which similarly reached and inspired the audience of career civil servants.
During my tenure as Assistant Secretary, we embarked on the first-ever college partnership to train the next generation of civil rights leaders and to help inform marginalized communities about their rights and responsibilities under the law. The echoes of Brian’s words carried forward my staff and enhanced the understanding of young people about the paths others took before them and the remaining work to improve community understanding today.
Brian’s many talents can strengthen and support your important work in virtually any community. I highly recommend him as a trusted, respected partner who can be counted on to help inform and inspire your stakeholders.
—John Trasviña, Former HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity
Brian served as the Emcee for the Contra Costa County Bar Association’s Gala events in both 2024 and 2025, and his contributions were nothing short of exceptional. Brian brought a unique blend of professionalism, charisma, and humor to our events, setting the perfect tone for evenings that celebrated the legal community’s achievements. His ability to engage a diverse audience, keep the program flowing seamlessly, and adapt to the dynamic nature of live
events was truly impressive.
I specifically appreciated his flexibility and attention to detail for the programs. He served more as a partner in the program than a simple participant. His preparation and collaborative spirit made him a pleasure to work with behind the scenes.
What further sets Brian apart is his natural presence on stage and his genuine connection with the audience. He paid close attention to the entire program and, if anything went off script, adjusted his contributions appropriately. The feedback that we received from the event attendees for Brian was effusive and glowing; they all enjoyed the programs, and he was a large part of the success.
I wholeheartedly recommend Brian Copeland for any speaking or hosting engagement. He is a consummate professional and a gifted communicator who undoubtedly brings excellence to any event.
—Jody E. Iorns, Executive Director, Contra Costa Bar Association
The Livermore Laboratory Employee Services Association (LLESA) has been honored to host Brian Copeland on several occasions over the last five years. Brian has joined us in discussing his book, Not A Genuine Black Man, and then later he returned to perform his one-man show for us. Brian was amazing! Our audience adored him, and he really went out of his way to help accommodate our needs.
Each time he has visited, we have had more than 200 employees in attendance and Brian always receives incredibly positive feedback. Following each presentation, we survey our employees and Brian’s performances/talks receive RAVE review with 98% of attendees giving this event the highest possible rating. Here are some direct quotes from the survey:
- “One of the best speakers I have seen here in years. He took a very serious subject matter and made it interesting, relevant, and funny.”
- “This was an excellent presentation by Mr. Copeland! Thank you for arranging to have him speak here. Not only was enriching to hear him speak. It was a very positive and powerful feeling to sit in a room with so many of my peers who shared an interest in this topic.”
- “This presentation by Brian Copeland was excellent. It engaged us and drew us into his life as a childhood and how he views the current social environment. It was a roller coaster ride that allowed the participants the opportunity to feel and talk about race.”
- “I loved that it was not just a speaker but a performance. I felt great pride knowing that our organization could bring something as meaningful as this to the workplace.”
- “I loved hearing about Brian’s life and the problems that he encountered and overcame and Brian’s stage skill in communicating his story in a way that reaches the heart, in a one-actor format.”
- “I think this was a good event that touched on the taboo subject of race. Brian Copeland presented in a real, engaging and even funny way the harsh realities of racism!”
I would highly recommend Brian as a presenter and his one-man show is outstanding! He was able to adapt his presentation to meet our tight time frame and was extremely professional to work with.
—Melissa Sale, General Manager, Livermore Laboratory Employee Services Association
I have been a fan of Brian Copeland for many years. I first learned of his talent, his gifts for our world from KGO Radio many years ago. That led me to his books, all of which I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed. When searching for possible speakers for our District Conference, I found his name. The memories evoked led me to share with him my desire for his presence at our Celebrate Hope in Action District Conference. He did so, and it was magical.
Knowing that a great deal of his humor deals with the political realm, I shared that Rotary is non-political and non-religious. A natural concern for any Rotarian—and not a problem. He honored my request and he avoided politics—except for a great joke about kittens.
What sets Brian apart from just being a comic, a political satirist, a penetrating speaker, all talents that are so valuable, is the heart and passion and care that he brings to his work. He shares his life in ways that resonate, from dealing with discrimination to confronting his depression. He shares the human side, his lessons learned and his one-may play and book, The Waiting Period. While I knew he was still performing that free, twice a month, to help others, he only glanced across that point during his talk at our conference.
What was gratifying to me was that while Brian was in our “green room,” he came across the program sharing our theme for the year—Hope in Action—and the DG welcome letter about the theme. He took that info and focused all that he shared about his life in terms of Hope in Action. Naturally, I was more than pleased with his approach.
—Steven A. Wright, District Governor 2024-25, District 5150
Brian Copeland gave one of the keynote addresses at the District Conference today. It was well-received, thought-provoking and inspirational. Every comment I received from those present was extremely positive. He was a great addition to our conference.
As he talked, I have to say that I was impressed and am extremely grateful for everything Brian does to make the world a better place. Communicating with others in ways that help them, whether by laughing (one of the healthiest things we can do) or reaching into their souls to give them strength, is immensely important. I would say that Brian is a true Rotarian at heart in the way he serves others and yet he always strives to do more.
I would recommend him to anyone as an excellent speaker.
—Jill Duerig, District Governor 2024-25, District 5170