NAACP Election Procedures

Leadership in our units is key to our ability to mobilize in communities nationwide. The NAACP Elections Procedure Manual will help branch officials conduct effective, transparent elections.

Based on requirements outlined in the NAACP Constitution and By-Laws for Units, this manual covers guidance on the branch election process, youth voting, and required notices to unit members.

Preparing for Unit Elections

In August, of even-numbered years, NAACP units begin the process to elect leaders for the upcoming year. This is a simple outline of what should occur during the 4-month NAACP Branch election process. For more details, review Article IX, Section 2 of the Bylaws for Units and the Branch Election Manual.

If there is a violation of the election process a complaint must be made to the National Office prior to the next meeting. The National Office may institute corrective action to ensure the rights of members are protected.

Notice of Meetings

Unit leadership will send a notice to all members in good-standing, postmarked at least 10 days prior to the September meeting. The notice must include the date, time, location and purpose of the September, October and November meetings. A notice must also be placed in the local newspaper for these meetings at least 10 days prior, as well as another 10 days prior to the November election.

The Nominating Committee will present its report and receive nominations from the floor, the Chair, or a member of the Nominating Committee. No officer of the Branch or any candidate for office shall chair the nominating process. For the purpose of being certified as an eligible candidate one must have been a bona fide member of the Branch by April 1st, as well as live and/or work in the jurisdiction of the Branch. After candidates are identified, the Election Supervisory Committee should be elected. Please note: all questions regarding the eligibility of candidates must be resolved prior to the conclusion of the October meeting.
In the event there is an election controversy, a complaint signed by 25 members in good-standing (50 members if the Branch membership exceeds 1,000 members) must be postmarked no later than 5 days after the date of the election. The standard used for reviewing complaints; "if the allegations alleged are assumed to be true would they have affected the outcome of the election?" If, the complaint is determined valid, it will be forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee Membership and Units.

NAACP Election Procedures

Preparing for Unit Elections

2024 Branch Election Webinar

Notice of Meetings

2024 Branch Election Manual

Preparing for Unit Elections

August Meeting

September Meeting

October Meeting

November Election

Election Controversy

2024 Branch Election Manual

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