NAACP Unveils Legislative Priorities ahead of Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2023
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON– Today, Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO, released the NAACP's comprehensive legislative policy agenda for the remainder of 2023, which addresses critical concerns faced by Black America. The agenda was released ahead of the 52nd Annual Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference, highlighting the key priorities impacting Black communities in the United States which include but are not limited to; ending mass incarceration, advancing economic equity, reaffirming support for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, and ensuring equal access to free and fair elections through the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. NAACP Leaders, including President & CEO Derrick Johnson, will engage in critical discussions on innovative solutions to these issues during the 52nd Annual Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference (ALC) from September 20th to 24th. They will collaborate with Black congressional leaders to align on a unified vision for progress and equity.
"For nearly a decade, Black Americans have weathered unrelenting attacks and faced insurmountable obstacles due to both the actions and inactions of many elected officials," said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. "The NAACP is committed to amplifying the needs of Black communities across the country in order to achieve real progress that will allow us to thrive. From economic equality to policing reform and voting rights, our calls for progress must be prioritized and executed upon by our leaders in Washington. Black America is watching and we expect action in Congress to continue pushing our country forward. We have made our priorities clear – it is now time for action."
In addition to unveiling the legislative policy agenda, NAACP leaders are also participating in various panels during the ALC, including "The State of Education: Sounding the Alarm on the Black Educator Shortage" with National Education Association President Becky Pringle and "Student Debt Cancelation is Essential" with Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley.
The NAACP's full CBCF-ALC Policy Priorities Memo can be found here.
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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.