NAACP Announces Newly Elected State Conference Presidents to Strengthen the Fight to Defend Democracy Across the Country

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2025
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org 

WASHINGTON – The NAACP, the nation's largest, most influential social justice organization, proudly announces new state conference leaders to guide the Association's mission across the country. Congratulations to the following NAACP State Conference presidents: 

• Donald Hart, President, Florida State Conference of the NAACP
• Ron Ali, President, Alabama State Conference of the NAACP
• Gwenette Westbrooks, President, Georgia State Conference of the NAACP
• L. Joy Williams, President, New York State Conference of the NAACP

The NAACP welcomes these newly elected leaders as they step into leadership at a time when the work of protecting civil rights and advancing equity is more urgent now than ever before. Across the country, voting rights continue to face attacks, redistricting battles threaten fair representation, and growing tensions surrounding the deployment of the National Guard in our nation's cities continue to rise. But the NAACP was built for times like these, when the role of the federal government is being reshaped to serve the wealthy few instead of U.S. citizens, it is increasingly incumbent upon the states to preserve and defend Americans. 

"At a time when democracy is under attack, our state leaders are carrying the torch, ensuring that every community we serve has a voice and a seat at the table," said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. "The NAACP's mission remains clear: to build power, advance justice, and protect the rights of Black Americans in every corner of this nation."

The NAACP is grateful to all those who have served and continue to serve, dedicating themselves to this critical fight for justice. Together, we will continue to uphold our commitment to the mission of the NAACP.

"Our state conferences are where policy meets people and where actions turn into impact," said Dominik Whitehead, NAACP Chief of Field, Membership Growth, and Unit Sustainability. "These new presidents are stepping into leadership at a defining moment for our country. From defending against federal government overreach to advocating for priorities that advance our communities, they represent the conviction that the NAACP was built on. Together, we're not just responding to the challenges of the moment, we're organizing to win the future."

For information regarding NAACP leadership, visit the websitehere.

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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.