Hundreds of residents gathered at the Beaver Street Enterprise for the June meeting meeting of the Jacksonville Branch of the NAACP monthly general membership meeting where voting rights, redistricting and civic engagement took center stage. Attendees heard presentations from legal advocates regarding Florida’s ongoing redistricting efforts and proposed voting district maps, while candidates seeking public office also addressed the audience and issues affecting local communities,
“We have much work to do—be involved,” urged community leader Hank Rogers, as he encouraged residents to remain active in the political process and informed about issues that could impact representation and voting access.
The local branch is also focused on youth with free programming on everything from cultivating the arts to climate change. The national award winning division has exposed hundreds to platforms that have developed into scholarships and successful life-long careers.
The Jacksonville branch of the NAACP, founded in 1917 with the involvement of civil rights leader and author James Weldon Johnson, has played a significant role in advancing civil rights locally and nationally. The branch is perhaps best known for its youth council’s leadership in the 1960 lunch counter sit-ins that culminated in the events known as “Ax Handle Saturday,” a pivotal moment in Jacksonville s civil rights history. Branch leader encourages continued community participation as discussion over voting districts and representations continue across Florida. The next NAACP Jacksonville general meeting is scheduled for July 9th.
For more information on the branch or any of their programs call (904) 265-4702.