For 117 years, the NAACP has been America’s premier civil rights organization, with a mission of protecting the rights of all Americans, in particular Black Americans.
One of the most fundamental rights that has served this country and helped Black Americans achieve politically, economically and educationally has been the Voting Rights Act of 1965. With attacks on voting rights coming from the Trump administration and the U.S. Supreme Court, the NAACP has renewed this effort to make sure the right to vote is protected.
The national organization has adopted a resolution calling for Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (H. R. 4), which would provide funding and resources to state and local governments to “provide safe, secure and effective voting systems and that no excuse mail-in voting be secured in every state and territory.”
It has also launched a national $20 million get out the vote campaign leading up to the midterms.
Much is being done locally as well.
After a few years of internal woes that sidelined the Seattle King County NAACP, it is now back and on track, with renewed energy. Such a rebuild couldn’t have been more timely.
“I’m here to right the ship and build a strategy to make it more effective,” said Hayward Evans, the newly elected president of the Seattle King County NAACP, the oldest branch west of the Mississippi. One of the ways he has done that is by creating five geographical districts with the local chapter to engage members on a micro-local level. Two of the chapters’ main focuses are voting rights and participation, and youth development.
“I believe we need to invest in our youth long before they encounter the criminal justice system,” Evans said. “That begins with teaching ethical decision-making, character development, and financial literacy as essential subjects in our schools. We should also ensure that every young person has access to free after-school programs, mentoring, tutoring … and career exploration opportunities.”
Evans said there needs to be a focus on meaningful summer employment or internships for Seattle and King County youths.
“When we provide opportunity, purpose, and positive role models, we reduce the appeal of gangs and violence and help young people realize their full potential,” said Evans.
The local NAACP has also launched a voter awareness campaign on street corners throughout the county, drawing attention to voter registration.
To address the needs of the area, it will take resources, including individuals volunteering and financial support. Evans said there has been a noticeable decline in corporate support since the Trump administration dismantled diversity, equity and inclusion programs last year.
The NAACP’s stated purpose is to “ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and racial discrimination.”
Such a worthy goal for all to pursue.
