FAQs

1. What is the NAACP? 
   1. Vision: We envision an inclusive community rooted in liberation where all persons can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination.  
   2. Mission: Our mission is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color. 
2. How can I support the mission of the NAACP? 
   1. The NAACP legacy is long: our work is consistent: to build Black political, social, and economic power to end racial injustice. We encourage you to consider investing in our work through individual giving, becoming a champion for change,  or corporate giving and sponsorship, partner with us by becoming a member,volunteering, or by simply opening your networks and resources.  
   2. Every dollar you give to the NAACP, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, and NAACP Empowerment Programs, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is used to push our organization's mission forward. We take pride in utilizing your donations to continue the fight toward Black liberation. 

1. What is the NAACP National Convention? 
   1. The NAACP National Convention is an empowering and immersive experience held each year to celebrate our community's collective power. The Convention attracts innovative change-makers, thought-leaders, entrepreneurs, scholars, entertainers, influencers, and creatives to network and exchange ideas. 
   2. We gather, collectively, to foster our intergenerational approach to advocacy. Main stage discussions, luncheons, and the experience hall connect activists, allies, and entrepreneurs from varying backgrounds who are all committed to the same thing: thriving together. 
2. What is this year's Convention theme? 
   1. "The Fierce Urgency of NOW" 
      1. Words from 1963 still ring true in 2025. Our political landscape is hostile and divided. Civil rights are in danger. Race is once again being used as a tool to deny promises this country made to all of its citizens. The NAACP was built for times such as this. "The Fierce Urgency of Now" underscores the immediate need for action in the ongoing struggle and the transformative power of our unity to create a better future. It embodies the spirit of unity, commitment, and collective action for social justice - an unshakable invitation to the Convention and beyond, urging everyone to keep advancing in the fight against discrimination. 
3. Where can I find the most up to date information about the 116th National Convention? 
   1. The National Convention website www.naacp.org/convention will have the most up-to-date information on registration and the conference schedule.  
4. What are the dates and locations of future National Conventions? 
   1. July 18-22, 2026 – 117th National Convention - Chicago, IL 

   2. July 10-14, 2027 – 118th National Convention - Long Beach, CA 

       

       

1. What are the registration rates for the Convention? 
   1. Please visit https://naacp.org/convention/registration    
2. What is included with the National Convention registration? 
   1. All paid attendees that purchase a convention registration will have access to plenary sessions, advocacy forums (workshops), Continuing Legal Education (CLE), The Hub (exhibit hall) and: 
      1. Required Access Badge 
      2. Convention Bag  
      3. Mobile App and/or Pocket Guide  
      4. Regional Meetings & Morning Snack Break 
      5. Delegates' Reception hosted by Chairman Russell 
      6. President's Reception  
      7. LGBTQIA+ Forum & Reception 
      8. Young Professionals Reception (21 - 40 years old) 
         1. All youth & college attendees receive benefits, PLUS: 
            1. Youth and College Welcome Party 
            2. Youth socials 
            3. Youth advocacy forums (workshops) and panel sessions  
   2. Adult & Youth Delegates Only – receive complimentary box lunch during the Resolutions Plenary Session on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. 
3. How do I register for the convention? 
   1. Registration opens in April. For the convention choose the registration option that you would like on the registration page. Most people will fall into the delegate/alternate or observer category. Please keep in mind that youth registration is for Youth & College members/attendees who are 25 and under.  
4. What is the advance registration deadline?  
   1. Advance registration ends June 1, 2025.    
5. Are you offering a virtual registration option? 
   1. We are not offering virtual registration this year.  
6. What methods of payment are accepted? 
   1. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and ACH (e-check) payment.  
7. If a person is not a delegate, what rate do they pay?  
   1. Non-delegates/alternate delegates must register at the general public/observer registration rate.   
8. Can a state conference or a unit attend the National Convention if they are non-compliant?  
   1. Yes! Please register as an observer/general public attendee.   
9. The registration system doesn't recognize me or my delegate. What should I do?  
   1. Please use the name and email associated with your membership to get started. If you do not know the email address on file or have questions regarding your membership status, contact our Membership Department at membershipservices@naacpnet.org, or call (410) 580-5777.   
   2. If your membership is inactive, please renew your membership before registering delegates.   
10. I did not receive the email to register my delegates. What should I do?   
    1. If you did not receive an email, that means one or more of the following statements are true:   
       1. Your state conference or unit is compliant and the invitation to register delegates and alternates is in your spam/junk folder.   
       2. The unit or state conference is not nationally compliant. Please confirm your compliance status with NAACP membership by emailing memberservices@naacpnet.org; or calling (410) 580-5777.   
       3. The current secretary is not listed in the Member Portal. Please review your unit leadership in your member portal. To update your unit leadership, please complete an Officer Update Form or contact membershipservices@naacpnet.org or call (410) 580-5777.     
11. Do you need a code to register delegates?   
    1. No. Delegate registration does not require a code. The link to register was sent to the compliant unit and state conference secretaries listed in the member portal.      
12. Can my state conference or unit attend the National Convention if we are not compliant?  
    1. Yes, register as an observer.  
13. I've updated my membership, and it is showing as an active member in my portal but not showing the membership rate.  
    1. We do not have a member rate. We have a registration rate for delegates and non-delegates. If you are a member trying to register as a delegate, please contact your State Conference, Area State Conference or Unit Secretary. 
14. Do you offer group registration discounts or registration packages? 
    1. We do not offer group registration discounts or registration packages.   

WAIVERS 

All attendees of the National Convention must acknowledge and agree to all waivers. If you are registering a group, the attendee confirmation will be in pending status until the waivers are approved.    

All attendees must agree to their own convention waivers, parent or legal guardian for attendees 17 and under.  

SCOOTER RESERVATIONS

Cloud of Goods is the official scooter rental vendor of the 116th National Convention. You can reserve a scooter online here. 

Contact NAACP Housing 

Reservations can be made online and over the phone. A Maritz Customer Service representative can be reached Monday through Friday 9am-5pm EST.  

1. Attendees who need 1-4 reservations please contact: 
   1. Email:  NAACP@maritz.com 
   2. Phone: 864-541-0755 
2. For groups who need 5-15 reservations including ACT-SO or Youth & College: 
   1. Email:  NAACPGroup@maritz.com    
   2. Phone: 864-208-2574 
3. Is a deposit required for reservations?  
   1. Yes. When booking your reservation, a credit card will be required to guarantee your room. The hotel has the right to charge deposit of one (1) night room and tax after the reservation housing deadline occurs on or after June 13, 2025. 
4. How do I reserve a block of rooms? 
   1. Reservations for five (5) or more rooms can be made: 
      1. Online
      2. Via email at NAACPGroup@maritz.com    
      3. Or via phone at 864-208-2574 
         1. Click here for instructions on how to reserve five (5) or more guest rooms. 
5. What is the deadline to assign names to my group block? 
   1. May 16, 2025 - all names must be assigned to the block. If you do not assign names to your block by this date the rooms will be released back to the hotel. 
6.  What is the Cancellation Policy? 
   1. The hotel requires a deposit equal to one night's room & tax to hold your reservation.  The hotel will charge your card for deposit on or after June 13, 2025. Should a guest cancel a reservation, the deposit will be refunded if notice is received at least 72 hours prior to arrival. If you fail to arrive on the scheduled arrival date the cancellation fee will be charged, and the remaining nights of the reservation will be released by the hotel. 
   2. IMPORTANT! The card you will add to the reservation will be used to hold your room reservation. The hotel may put a temporary hold on the credit card that is provided upon check-in in case of any incidental charges. Be certain to verify your departure date with the hotel front desk upon check-in to avoid an early departure fee. 
7. What is the cut-off date for reservations? 
   1. Starting Friday, June 15, 2025. See the hotel rates chart for exact cut-off dates. 
8. How do I reserve a suite?  
   1. You can request a suite by completing the suite request form on the official housing site.  Once you submit your request, a representative from Maritz will reach out to you with the available options within 3-5 business days. Suites are not guaranteed and are subject to availability.  
9. Are ADA rooms available?  
   1. If you require an ADA room, please make sure all your requests are included in your hotel reservation. 
10. What is the Youth & College hotel(s)?  
    1. The Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Uptown, Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown, and the Residence Inn Charlotte City Center are designated as Youth & College Hotels.  
    2. Reservations must be secured via the Youth & College housing link to receive the discounted resort fee. 
11. What is the ACT-SO hotel(s)? 
    1. The Sheraton and the Le Meridien Hotels are designated for ACT-SO. 
    2. Reservations must be secured via the ACT-SO housing link to receive the discounted resort fee.  

1. How do I register as a volunteer for the 116th National Convention? 
   1. Volunteers are managed by the host Branch (Charlotte for 2025). Volunteering does not provide complimentary access to all benefits and events at the National Convention. It is our preference that vol volunteers are local. We do not provide any accommodation or transportation assistance.   
2. Are volunteers paid for their time? 
   1. No. We do not compensate volunteers.  
3. Are volunteers offered free convention registration? 
   1. No. Volunteers will receive a credential and a volunteer t-shirt. If a volunteer would like to attend the parts of or the entire convention, they must register and pay a fee.  
4. Does the NAACP provide travel, housing, and/or parking for volunteers? 
   1. No. Parking is limited in downtown Charlotte. We encourage volunteers to take the light rail.
5. What meals are covered or offered to volunteers?  
   1. Meal vouchers are provided for every four (4) hours of work/day. 
6. Can I select the events I'd like to volunteer for? 
   1. No. Volunteer assignments are determined based on availability, ADA needs, and comfort levels.  

1. What does ACT-SO stand for?  
   1. ACT-SO stands for Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics. Every year high school students showcase their skills and talents in visual arts and business to performing and culinary arts.  For more information, visit the ACT-SO website by clicking here.
2. Do you have to register for the convention to attend ACT-SO?  
   1. No, however, we encourage you to register and attend both events.  
3. What dates are regional meetings taking place? 
   1. Regional Meetings are taking place Monday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 16. 
4. What is the HUB? 
   1. It's back! Get ready for the ultimate hotspot for innovation, empowerment, and cultural celebration! TheHUB is a vibrant, buzzing space designed to ignite action and spark meaningful connections. 
   2. This year, it's bigger and better than ever, bringing together diverse organizations, businesses, and community leaders who are all about championing equity and justice. From hands-on activities and live demos to immersive exhibits, there's something for everyone — kids, families, and grown-ups alike!  
   3. We're shining a spotlight on Charlotte's rich culture and incredible talent, amplifying local voices while elevating national initiatives. Plus, don't miss dynamic main stage conversations and panels featuring thought leaders, activists, and experts who are making waves in social justice and equality. 
   4. The HUB isn't just a space — it's a vibe, a movement, and a call to action. Join us and be part of something extraordinary!  
5. Where can I access post-convention virtual content?  
   1. On the NAACP YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/NAACP 

• What Does ACT-SO Stand For? 
  • ACT-SO stands for Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics. It is a vibrant platform where high school students from diverse backgrounds can showcase their skills and talents. With categories ranging from visual arts and business to performing and culinary arts, there is something for everyone. For more information, visit the ACT-SO website. 
• Do You Have to Register for the Convention to Attend ACT-SO? 
  • While registration is not mandatory, we highly value your participation and encourage you to register for both the convention and ACT-SO. Your presence makes a difference! 
• Are All ACT-SO Competitions Open to the Public? 
  • Not all competitions are open to the public. The following competitions are exclusively for registered guests:  
    • Business 
    • Culinary Arts 
    • Performing Arts 
    • Filmmaking (Visual Arts) 
    • The Humanities, STEM, and Visual Arts competitions are closed to the public for contestant interviews.  
• What ACT-SO Events Are Streamed Live? 
  • If you can't attend in person, you can still be part of the action! The ACT-SO Opening Kick-Off and the 48th NAACP ACT-SO Awards will be streamed live on the NAACP Convention Stream tab. 
• Do we have a deadline for ACT-SO Contestants to register? 
  • The deadline for ACT-SO contestant registration is June 6.  
• Is the Winner's Reception Open to the Public? 
  • The winner's reception is not open to the public. However, national ACT-SO medalists receive two guest tickets for their reception. 
• How Can I Find a List of the National ACT-SO Competition Winners? 
  • The NAACP releases a list of winners immediately after the 48th NAACP ACT-SO Awards. 
• How Can I Donate to Support ACT-SO? 
  • You can donate to support ACT-SO through the NAACP's website.  
• How Do I Become an ACT-SO Judge? 
  • Applications for judging the National ACT-SO Competition are accepted annually from October to May. Prospective judges will receive notification of participation by mid-June. To request an application, email actsojudges@naacpnet.org. 

Compliance Resources 

1. I am a delegate/alternate; can I register myself?    
   1. No. Delegates cannot register themselves. Only compliant units and state conferences will receive the registration link. Please contact your unit or state conference secretary to register if you are a delegate. Your unit or state conference Secretary should review this document for instructions.
2. I am a delegate/alternate. Can I register as an observer?  
   1. No. Only the unit or state conference secretary can register delegates. Please contact your unit or state conference secretary to register, or see here for instructions. 
3. I am a Unit or State Conference Secretary. How do I register my delegates and alternates?   
   1. Only nationally compliant units and state conferences can register delegates. Secretaries of nationally compliant state conferences and units will receive an email inviting them to register their delegates. Delegates and alternates must be active members.  The email will come from NAACP Registration – NAACPConvention@conferencedirect.com.
   2. Can delegates vote virtually? 
      1. No, all voting is in person this year.   
4. How can I confirm my compliance status?    
   1. Please login to the member portal to see your compliance status or email NAACP membership services at membershipservices@naacpnet.org.      
5. What is national compliance for State Conferences and Units?   
   1. National compliance consists of Member Compliance and Financial Compliance.  
6. What is Unit national compliance?  
   1. Unit national compliance consists of member compliance and financial compliance. 
   2. Unit Financial compliance consists of achieving an approved Annual Financial Report.
   3. Unit Membership compliance consists of meeting the minimum number of members by March 31, 2025.   
      1. Adult units must have 50 active members by March 31 
      2. Youth units must have 25 active members by March 31 
7. What is the State Conference national compliance?   
   1. National compliance consists of member compliance and financial compliance.  
   2. Financial compliance consists of achieving an approved the Annual Financial Report.
      1. Adult state conferences must submit their Annual Financial Report (AFR) by March 1 to avoid the late fee.
      2. Youth state conferences must submit their Annual Financial Report (AFR) by March 1 to avoid the late fee.  
   3. Membership compliance consists of meeting the minimum number of members by March 31.  
      1. Adult state conferences must have six (6) membership-compliant adult and six (6) youth units by March 31. 
      2. Youth state conferences must have six (6) membership compliant units by March 31.  
   4. What do I need to complete in order to register for the National Convention?
      1. To register for convention, the unit must be financially compliant which means the AFR must be reviewed, approved and accepted by Units & Compliance and the AFR assessment must be paid.   
8. For assistance with your Annual Financial Report, please contact ufi@naacpnet.org.  

1. Where can I find the most up to date information about the 116th National Convention? 
   1. The National Convention website www.naacp.org/convention will have the most up-to-date information on registration and the conference schedule.  
2. Who do I contact if I need assistance with securing a hotel room block? 
   1.  Reservations can be made online and over the phone. A Maritz Customer Service representative can be reached Monday through Friday 9am-5pm EST. 
      1. Attendees who need 1-4 reservations please contact: 
         1. Email:  NAACP@maritz.com 
         2. Phone: 864-541-0755 
      2. For groups who need 5-15 reservations including ACT-SO or Youth & College: 
         1. Email:  NAACPGroup@maritz.com    
         2. Phone: 864-208-2574 

The NAACP is committed to ensuring all attendees have the best experience possible.   

The NAACP will make every effort to honor your accommodation request. If you will be attending the 116th NAACP National Convention and require special arrangements and/or disability-related accommodations, please select the appropriate boxes and provide details on the registration and hotel reservation forms. We ask that you register byJune 30 so that we can help make the 116th NAACP National Convention more accessible for you; otherwise, we may not be able to guarantee the availability of arrangements.   

If you have already registered for 116th NAACP National Convention and need to note additional requests, please email NAACPConvention@conferencedirect.com. Please contact us by June 30 so that we can fully accommodate your needs.

If you need accommodation once you are on-site at 116th NAACP National Convention, please visit the 116th NAACP National Convention Registration Desk at the Charlotte Convention Center.  

Our staff and volunteers are trained to provide assistance to attendees with disabilities. If you require any disability-related accommodation or assistance during the event, please don't hesitate to ask. 

The NAACP can provide a wide variety of services and resources for in-person and convention attendees.  

The Charlotte Convention Center is a fully accessible facility.  

• The facility is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available for easy navigation between floors.  
• Accessible parking spaces are available close to the entrance for attendees with mobility impairments.  
• Restrooms are equipped with accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities.  
• There is clear signage throughout the Convention Center to aid in navigation.  
• Service animals are welcome at the Convention Center. 

How do I make a request for American with Disability Act (ADA) accommodation? 

• Please submit your accommodations request(s) when you register for the 116th National Convention and when you make your hotel reservations.
• If you need accommodation once you are on-site at the 116th National Convention, please visit the NAACP registration desk at the Charlotte Convention Center. 

SCOOTER RESERVATION

• Cloud of Goods is the official scooter rental vendor of the 116th National Convention. You can reserve a scooter online here. 

TRANSPORTATION 

• What hotels will have a shuttle from the hotels to the Charlotte Convention Center?   
  • Shuttle service will be provided for hotels that are three blocks or more from the Charlotte Convention Center.

Everyone attending ACT-SO, the Convention, participating in a convention event, or visiting The Hub MUST be registered. A badge or ticket is required to participate in all convention events.  

1. What are the COVID-19 protocols for Convention?     
   1. Based on current COVID-19 trends, the Department of Health and Human Services lifted the Presidential Declaration of a National Public Health Emergency arising from the COVID-19 pandemic on May 11, 2023. Therefore, COVID-19 will no longer be considered a national health emergency. We will continue to monitor trends and act accordingly based on Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance. Learn more here. 
   2. Your health and safety remain our top priority while attending the NAACP Convention and all NAACP events. COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are strongly recommended.  
   3. NAACP recommends that all attendees be fully vaccinated in accordance with the CDC guidelines. Boosters are strongly recommended but are not required.  
   4. Wearing facial coverings throughout 116th National Convention is also recommended but is not required.    
   5. If you become ill before attending the convention, please stay home and contact your healthcare provider for the safety and well-being of yourself and others. If you feel ill on-site, please self-isolate immediately and contact your healthcare provider.  Should you need a medical professional, we will have EMTs on-site at the convention center who can attend to your medical needs. 

1. How do I get information about sponsorship opportunities for the 116th National Convention? 
   1. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Development at sponsorconvention@naacpnet.org. 

1. Where do media register for the National Convention? 
   1. All media will need to complete an application to be considered to receive credentials for the 116th NAACP National Convention. Once your application is approved you will be provided with instructions on how to register. Media will have access to most of the sessions during the convention and will also have access to a media center for exclusive access to interviews. For additional questions, please email communications@naacpnet.org