The NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) was founded on February 12, 1909 and, as they explain on their website, it is "the nation's foremost, largest, and most widely recognized civil rights organization." With 111 years of history, half a million members and over 2,000 volunteer branches nationwide, it's worth a visit to their website or a branch to find out more. You can also watch this short video from the History channel for a great overview.The mission of the NAACP is "to secure political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons."
Some of the early focus of the NAACP was fighting Jim Crow laws, ending school segregation, and lobbying for the civil rights and voting rights acts. Current efforts are directed at six game changers: economic sustainability, education, health, public safety and criminal justice, voting rights and political representation, and expanding youth and young adult engagement.
In practical terms that means activities such as awarding scholarships to outstanding students and advocacy to combat gun violence and encourage voter participation. There's also the NAACP Image Awards, "the nation's preeminent multicultural awards show from an African American point of view." The 51st annual awards show is airing Sunday!
To get involved supporting the work of the NAACP you can become a member, make a donation or attend the annual convention in July. You can also share the social media love by liking their Facebook page and following them on Twitter @NAACP.
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