NAACP President Attends Biden’s State of the Union Address
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – Last night, President Biden gave his third annual State of the Union address to Congress. The address, which took place on the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, offered a forward-looking vision. Key topics in the President's remarks reflected some of the most pressing issues for Black America, as outlined in the NAACP's Black Policy Agendawhich was released on their website ahead of the address.
NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson, who attended the State of the Union address, released this statement in response:
"President Biden's address provided the American people with important updates on his Administration's progress to fulfill their promises. Let's not forget, in 2020, Black America turned out in droves, with the hope of not only repairing, but building a better democracy. While this Administration has made notable progress, the road ahead must be paved with promises kept and policies enacted.
Make no mistake - Black America will no longer fall victim to empty words and stolen hope. We demand bold, concrete action. The NAACP will continue holding every Administration accountable to their duties to the American people. Our voice matters. Our votes matter. Our community matters."
Ahead of the 2024 elections, NAACP is working to recruit 300,000 volunteers to support their GOTV mobilization efforts. Additionally, the organization is prioritizing data collection, targeted education, and engagement within 26 states that have the highest concentration of Black voters.
For more information on NAACP's work to get out the Black vote, visit naacp.org/vote.
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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.