NAACP Previews Star-Studded 115th National Convention, What it Means to be ‘All In’
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON - Today, NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson was joined by local and National NAACP leaders, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford, and other key Las Vegas stakeholders for a press conference to preview the upcoming 115th National Convention in Las Vegas. The convention will take place between July 11, 2024 to July 17, 2024, and will focus on the Association's theme 'All In,' which reaffirms the NAACP's commitment to using the Black community's collective ingenuity, creativity, and strength to continue the fight for civil rights and social justice.
NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson shared the following statement, celebrating the National NAACP's presence in Las Vegas:
"Every year, we look forward to the NAACP National Convention, especially during times like these where attacks on our culture and our community spread like wildfire throughout our nation. For 115 years, the NAACP has been all in on Black America - this year is no different. We look forward to welcoming, connecting with and celebrating some of our nation's most distinguished members of the Black community to uplift and advance Black prosperity, Black culture, and Black equity."
"The CBC applauds NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson and the entire NAACP leadership for their continued dedication to advancing the political, educational, social, and economic equality of our communities," said Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04). "For 115 years, the NAACP has been at the forefront of the most pressing issues facing our communities, and the CBC is honored to have their continued partnership and support as we tackle racial inequality and the attacks on our fundamental rights and access to opportunity. It is because of the work of the NAACP that communities around our country, including communities in Las Vegas – the host city of this year's national convention – are able to live, thrive, and work to achieve their piece of the American dream."
Other leaders, including NAACP Convention Committee Chairman Michael Turner, announced the opening of registration and provided key updates on what to expect when NAACP's vast network of activists, allies, and entrepreneurs convenes for reenergizing conversations with the nation's most powerful figures while celebrating Black culture and devising a path forward for the Black community.
"The NAACP National Convention continues to soar to new heights, bringing together the best and brightest minds to rejuvenate the movement," said Michael Turner, NAACP Convention Chairman. "The Convention Planning Committee is proud to be all in for our people - continuing to innovate to uplift the Black community and highlight Black culture."
During the press conference, NAACP leadership announced the opening of registration, and provided confirmation of invitations extended to President Biden and Vice President Harris, who has participated in every convention during the Administration's tenure.
"The Las Vegas Branch of the NAACP is thrilled to host the 115th National Convention in our front yard. Our Branch membership and community at-large are all in - looking forward to providing a world-class and unique Vegas experience to the thousands of leaders and activists from all over the country. The rich union history of Las Vegas and the historical work of our local branch makes this city a fitting home for the 115th National Convention," said Quentin Savwoir, NAACP Las Vegas Branch President. "Las Vegas is the cradle of people power movements and is a blueprint for how to create long-lasting and meaningful change in our communities. As the host Branch, we're diligently and intentionally curating an experience that will bridge the national program to the local community. We'll host a series of activations for convention-goers that center civic engagement, entrepreneurship and economic freedom."
This convention will delve into the impact of Black culture on business, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), the upcoming elections, race, and justice. Attendees can expect engaging discussions, informative sessions, and inspiring discussions aimed at addressing key issues facing the Black community and society at large. The convention programming aims to empower, educate, and mobilize individuals toward positive change and progress in areas such as economic empowerment, social justice, political engagement, and cultural awareness through a diverse lineup of speakers.
Some of the notable participants will include MSNBC's President, Rashida Jones, CEO of the Fearless Fund, Arian Simone, and esteemed author and journalist Jemele Hill.
Other key events include the "Empowering Innovation: Black Voices in Technology" panel conversation presented by Amazon, as well as the Spingarn Awards, which will bestow the Association's highest honor upon prominent scholar, Henry Louis Gates. Additional panelists will be announced in the coming weeks.
Click here to view a recording of the event. All members of the media are provided with complimentary access to convention programming. Registration instructions will be provided upon request.
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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.