NAACP 115th National Convention Opens with Public Mass Meeting
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
LAS VEGAS — During the Opening Public Mass Meeting, NAACP National Convention attendees heard from NAACP leaders as well as federal, state, local and community leaders as the Association both recognized the city's vibrant Black community and celebrated the opportunity to gather in Las Vegas, NV and make a statement.
Michael T. Turner, NAACP National Board of Directors Chair, Convention Planning Committee officially opened the Convention during the Public Mass Meeting. Chair Turner emphasized the importance of Black voters and the necessity of an All In approach to fighting for your rights and America's democracy in his remarks.
"We face a struggle for the survival of the nation as a pluralistic unified democracy founded on the premise that all of us were created as equal endowed with certain unalienable rights to liberty and the pursuit of happiness" said Leon W. Russell, Chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors. "Elections have consequences, elections are about choices. In 2024 the choice is clear, do we continue work toward that little perfect diverse and inclusive union or do we go back to a jim crow past."
Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Tanya Bradsher, Congressman Steven Horsford, CWA President Claude Cummings and Las Vegas Branch NAACP President Quentin Savwoir addressed the excited crowd and underscored the magnitude of what's at stake during the upcoming election in November.
"We've worked in collaboration with the NAACP and our colleagues in the Congressional Hispanic and Asian Pacific Islander Caucuses, because we understand that when they come after D, E and I they are actually coming after you and I" said Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) on attacks to DEI and its implications.
A recording of the Public Mass Meeting can be viewed here. Click here for full remarks by National Board Chairman Leon W. Russell's, as prepared for delivery.
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
