Marriott International, In Partnership With The Smithsonian National Museum Of African American History And Culture Celebrates The Women Who've Paved The Way At The EncouragHERS Luncheon Featuring Com

BETHESDA, Md., Sept. 22, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott International has announced its partnership with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), and its role as the grand opening hospitality sponsor. To kick off the weekend, Friday, September 23, 2016, Marriott International is hosting EncouragHERS, a luncheon recognizing women of character, courage and commitment, hosted by Common, with a performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jazmine Sullivan. The celebratory event will shine a light on the contributions of women to the African American community and their role in making the new museum a reality.

"The National Museum of African American History and Culture has been a long time in the making, and all of us at Marriott International are truly honored to be kicking off the weekend with the EncouragHERS luncheon," said Erika Alexander, chief lodging services officer, the Americas at Marriott International. "EncouragHERS are the women who recognize when their communities need her support, when their protégés need encouragement, when their families need her strength or when friends just need an ear, act as an inspiration to us all, and that's why Marriott is here to say thank you."

The EncouragHERS luncheon will recognize the influence and brilliance of women who use their energy to uplift and empower women leaders from across all industries of business, entertainment, sports, politics and more. Each attendee has demonstrated support for the African American community or made impactful contributions to NMAAHC, which reflects Marriott International's 80+ year commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"I am looking forward to being a part of this incredible event with Marriott International and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, celebrating the contributions of strong African American women and kicking off such an important and historic weekend in Washington, D.C.," said Oscar and Grammy winning artist Common. "As the son of a single mother, I am proud to honor the women who came before us, and to do my part to nurture future generations of strong African American women."

The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture provides the opportunity for Marriott International to welcome guests traveling from here and around the world to witness the historic opening of the Smithsonian's newest cultural institution. Marriott International looks forward to hosting Washington, D.C. visitors for years to come, as the museum continues to be a sought-after destination. Visit www.marriott.com/NMAAHC and follow the Marriott International Twitter and Instagram handles (@MarriottIntl) for additional information about EncouragHERS and Marriott International's support for the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

About National Museum of African American History and Culture The National Museum of African American History and Culture was established as the 19th Smithsonian museum by an Act of Congress through legislation signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003. Groundbreaking occurred in 2012. The museum occupies a prime location in Washington, D.C., on the National Mall at the corner of Constitution Avenue at 14th Street, across from the Washington Monument. Opening Sept. 24, the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum will be the nation's largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American experience.

About Marriott International, Inc.Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Md., USA, with more than 4,500 properties in 88 countries and territories.  Marriott International reported revenues of more than $14 billion in fiscal year 2015. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, Bulgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection®, Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels by Marriott™, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels by Marriott® and MoxySM Hotels. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together comprise more than 57 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  

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