NAACP Announces Partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and The Links to Advance Civil Rights

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 21, 2026

Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org 

WASHINGTON — The NAACP – the nation's largest, most influential social justice organization –  has announced new partnerships with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and The Links, Incorporated. The organizations signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 55th Annual Legislative Conference. These partnerships unite three of the nation's most impactful civic organizations to bring together resources that drive systemic policy change across the country.

Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, shared the following reflection:

"This partnership comes ahead of one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime, and it will take all of us, working together, to help mobilize voters and advocate for Black Americans.  The NAACP remains committed to strengthening our coalitions in order to safeguard civil rights and create opportunities today that will sustain future generations. We're proud to stand alongside the women of The Links, Incorporated and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. to turn our shared commitment to social justice into real, lasting impact."

The MOU outlines the following priorities for the organizations to advance collaboratively:

• Advocate for policy changes that guarantee the political, educational, social, and economic equality of all persons.
• Collaborate on national initiatives aimed at fostering civic, economic, and educational development.
• Ensuring equality and empowering communities nationwide.
• Expand their collective footprint and champion transformative civic and educational development across all sectors of society.

"When organizations rooted in service stand together, the impact is undeniable," said Charletta Wilson Jacks, International President and CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. "We are proud to join the NAACP and The Links, Incorporated in defending civil rights, strengthening civic engagement and expanding opportunity for Black communities nationwide. Together, we are turning shared commitment into coordinated action that will create lasting impact for generations to come."

"One of the programming goals of The Links, Incorporated is to increase civic engagement and advocate for expanded access and opportunities for the communities that we serve," explained Dr. Shuana Tucker-Sims, National President of The Links, Incorporated. "As we enter this partnership with the NAACP, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated does the same, we are leveraging their tools, resources and reach to maximize our collective impact. We are excited about how together we can uplift and empower communities nationwide."

In alignment with the NAACP's C-HOPE framework, the MOUs include the following issue areas of interest:

• Community & Civic Engagement: Voter education, civic and political participation, and leadership development.
• Health & Well-Being: Advancing equitable access to healthcare, addressing disparities, and promoting community wellness.
• Opportunity & Economic Empowerment: Expanding workforce development, entrepreneurship, and pathways to generational wealth.
• Protection & Justice: Criminal justice reform, environmental justice, and safeguarding civil rights.
• Education: Ensuring access to quality, equitable education, and lifelong learning opportunities.

By bringing together the membership networks, leadership, and resources of the NAACP, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and The Links, Incorporated, the organizations are increasing their capacity to advocate for policy changes that protect equal rights and expand opportunity. The partnerships mark a major step forward in the fight for civic engagement and social justice throughout the nation, and the organizations are collectively energized and prepared to begin implementing their joint initiatives.

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About the 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. 

About The Links, Incorporated

The Links, Incorporated was established in 1946 when nine African American women gathered with a vision for enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and those of the African diaspora. Today, the 18,000 plus members of the non-profit are accomplished changemakers connected by friendship and a commitment to making a lasting impact through serving all in the communities in which they live and work worldwide.

About Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®

Founded in 1908 at Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is the first Greek-letter organization established by African American college-trained women. Today, the organization comprises more than 390,000 initiated members in over 1,122 graduate and undergraduate chapters located in 15 nations and territories worldwide.