NAACP and FEMA to Sign Disaster Resiliency Agreement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2023
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – This Thursday, NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson and Chairman of the Board of Directors Leon W. Russell will join Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that underscores NAACP and FEMA's partnership and dedication to enhancing disaster resilience efforts and supporting Black communities in FEMA's disaster response strategies.
WHO:
Leon W. Russell, NAACP Board of Directors, Chair
Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO
Abre' Conner, NAACP Director of Environmental and Climate Justice
Administrator Deanne Criswell, FEMA Administrator
WHAT: This monumental partnership between the NAACP and FEMA marks a significant step towards building a more equitable and resilient future. With this partnership, NAACP will be able to more effectively address the longstanding disparities disproportionately affecting our communities before, during and after disaster. This MOA serves as a global example of a shared vision of inclusive and effective disaster management that prioritizes the empowerment of Black communities.
WHEN: Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 4:00 PM EST
WHERE: Location will be provided upon RSVP. Members of the press interested in covering the event must RSVP by completing the form here. Deadline to RSVP is today — Wednesday, September 20th at 6:00 PM EST.
Following the signing, NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will be available for interviews about this collaboration.
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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.