With a long history of fighting for the rights of minorities, low income families and those facing inequality, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is still alive and well in 2018.
The vibrancy of the organization was apparent last week when the Jacksonville Branch of the NAACP held their 53rd Annual Freedom Fund dinner to a sold out crowd at the Hyatt Riverfront. Hundreds of supporters attended to support the historic civil rights group and also to hear featured speaker gubernatorial candidate and Mayor of Tallahassee Andrew Gillum speak to his platform for becoming the leader of Florida’s executive branch.
News cameras and attendees crowded the stage to get a glimpse of the candidate that has vowed, if elected, to rebuild Florida into a state that works for all citizens. The Democratic candidate’s speech reiterated his campaign platform, which is centered on economic development and good paying jobs so that regular people can support their families.
During his speech, Gillum reinforced that fact that he wants to protect and expand Floridians’ access to quality, affordable healthcare, especially people with pre-existing conditions. He also said that strengthening our public schools and putting an end the culture of high-stakes testing are priorities.
NAACP attendees listened attentively, clapped and smiled as Gillum eloquently detailed his life growing up with his mother and grandmother in South Florida.
The highlight of the dinner was the presentation of awards to the honorees for their community service and civil rights activism.
Establish in 1917, the Jacksonville Branch of the NAAP has been active in the community. The historical organization’s local record includes crusading for local civil rights such as reaching an agreement after thirty years in court to desegregate Jacksonville schools, voter registration and racial profiling.
Pictured l-r with NAACP President Isaiah Rumlin is award winners:
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