NAACP President Responds to President Biden’s Budget Proposal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 9, 2023

WASHINGTON — Following the release of President Biden's proposed FY 2024 budget,  NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson released this statement:

"In order to ensure that Black Americans can thrive, our elected leaders must go beyond words and commit to the issues, bold actions, and investments in our communities. The Biden-Harris administration's proposed budget reflects many of our most urgent needs including health and well-being, environmental justice, education, housing, and long-overdue policy solutions to close the racial wealth gap. 

We will continue to fight to keep the proposed key budget investments in areas that have been historically underfunded.  Let's be clear - any cuts to education - especially our HBCUs, social services, infrastructure, and housing are a direct attack on the Black community, and the progress made over the past few years means nothing without the funding to keep crucial programs running. 

However, the reality is - we cannot thrive if we are not alive. Police violence and environmental injustice are a looming threat to Black lives. President Biden must fight to expand funding to end unjust policing targeting Black communities, and fully fund the recently established Office of Environmental Justice in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The NAACP calls on our elected leaders to put their money where their mouth is and fight for a budget that reflects their commitment to justice and progress."

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.