NAACP Commemorates 75th Anniversary of the Desegregation of US Armed Forces
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2023
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – On July 26, 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981, which integrated the United States Armed Forces. The order declared that there would be equality of treatment and opportunity for all individuals in the Armed Forces, regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin. The efforts to ensure the execution of Executive Order 9981 was led through a vigorous campaign by NAACP Executive Secretary Walter White, along with A. Philip Randolph.
On the 75th anniversary of Executive Order 9981, NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement in remembrance of the momentous occasion:
"Today we commemorate the Association's decades-long commitment to veterans' rights and the realization of racial equality in all aspects of life. The signing of Executive Order 9981 marked a major milestone in the progress of our nation, creating a path forward for just treatment and recognition of Black members of service. Representation within our armed forces continues to have a profound significance in affirming the importance of diversity and fostering an environment that reflects the ideals of a more inclusive and equitable society."
The catalyst for this significant move was the tragic incident involving African American veteran, Sgt. Isaac Woodard, on February 12, 1946. He was arrested, beaten, and blinded by Batesburg, South Carolina police hours after being honorably discharged from the United States Army while still in uniform. This led the NAACP to take on Isaac Woodard's case. The incident sparked national outrage and inspired President Truman's decision to desegregate the military.
On Friday, July 28, 2023, the NAACP will sign a Memorandum of Agreement with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Minority Affairs. This agreement commemorates Executive Order 9981 and outlines a collaborative structure between the entities to advance and improve the quality of life for all our Nation's Veterans, including Minority Veterans.
For more information on the NAACP's role in the Black veterans' civil rights movement, visit our website.
###
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.