ST. PAUL -- Today, the gavel will fall signifying the official opening of the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. I'm here for it.

This is the moment that Senator John McCain has waited eight years for since losing his 2000 presidential bid. The former POW and long-term senator is as famous for his politics as he is for his wealth, spotlighted in his now infamous gaff regarding how many houses he and his wife Cindy own.

Throughout history, the GOP has been seen as an elitist party, one that caters to the rich; it's an image that McCain fits by being a white, conservative, wealthy man. However, there are African Americans who feel allegiance to this party but they largely remain nameless, faceless people. Black Republicans also don't always fit the party's image, nor does the party appeal to many African-Americans.

For some reason, the African American Republican has been depicted as somewhat of mythical figure, one that exists only on popular television shows.

There was the character of Carlton Banks on the "Fresh Prince of Bel Air," Warden Leo Glynn on HBO's "Oz," and William Dent on "Girlfriends." In fact, Black conservatives span all walks of life, including the world of entertainment, politics, writing and boxing. Actually, some of the most popular African American figures today consider themselves soldiers in the political fight with McCain.

Black Voices now gives you a look at some real-life, famous Black Republicans: