2016 NAACP Freedom Fund Program Proof

It’s my pleasure to welcome you to our 102nd Annual Freedom Fund Awards Gala!

This year our theme is: “Our Lives Matter...Our Votes Count”

Newark Unit, NAACP President’s Greetings

Welcome to our 102nd Freedom Fundraiser! We sincerely thank you for your support of the work of the Newark Branch NAACP. We are volunteers committed to the advancement of civil rights and social justice within our community. This major annual event allows us the opportunity to raise needed funds to operate throughout the year and to salute community champions.

This year, our theme reaffirms our importance as people and as voters. “Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count” urges us to remember our value. The climate of our nation is toxic and we can either debate, whine, ignore or use the system for change.

This country was founded on the democratic “rights” of the citizen and although we have found time and again, the rights of Black people violated and abused, we now have power to force change. We forced change in 2008 by electing a Black president. We did that! All of us going to the polls, encouraging our young, talking to one another and spreading the word about the importance of our vote and being a part of change. We continued to force change in 2012 by re-electing the President. But I would venture to say, an aggressive black lash of atrocities against Blacks have escalated since the election of President Obama.

In between, however, in 2010, we dropped the ball and stayed home for the important national mid-term elections including the NJ Governor’s election. Our silence at the ballot was translated into punitive legislation by the victors and assault on the policies of the president we elected.

Our vote matters now as much as ever as we head to the polls to elect the next leader of the United States in November who will either defend or destroy the legacy of President Obama.

For the residents of New Jersey, our votes will determine who will lead this state as the next Governor, Assembly, Senate and County Freeholder Board in 2017. Civics teaches us that all the branches of government are connected. The local to the state, the state to the national.

We cannot be episodic with our vote. We must vote in every election from the school board to the president as if our lives depended on it-because it does.

Those elected will create and pass laws that govern our lives. The quality of our lives in Education, Labor, Pension Benefits, Healthcare, Economic Development, Transportation, Housing, the Environment, Criminal Justice Reform will be determined by who we place in office and how we hold them accountable.

Your vote is power. Use it.

Deborah Smith-Gregory, President

Saluting Civil Rights Activism 1914 - 2016 — History of Newark NAACP — Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s most recognized and active grass-roots civil rights organization.

A call was made on President Lincoln’s centennial birthday on February 12, 1909 for a national conference on the plight of Negroes in America, which included “discussion of present evils, the voicing of protests and the renewal of the struggle for civil and political liberty.” They wanted to bring national attention to the blatant disenfranchisement of the Negro.

Understanding the Negro was being disenfranchised both in the South and North, a small group of Newark citizens came together to address pressing concerns in the community. Chartered in 1914, the Newark Branch is now one of the oldest and largest branches in the state and country.

Historically, the Newark Branch has been an influential force behind major policy changes.

Where there were no Negro teachers or administrators in the Newark school district in the early 1950’s, the Newark branch advocated for integration.

Essex County had no ranking minority police officers and this policy remained until the 1960’s when the NAACP persuaded the Essex County Police Department to revise its rules. As a result, opportunities became available The Newark Branch also led the call that promoted legislation in the 1980’s to end racial profiling on the NJ Turnpike. In addition, the branch hosted classes to enable more African Americans and Latinos to become state police.

Legislation, Advocacy and Direct Services have become the hue and cry for the many issues that challenge our community. For the past three years, the Newark NAACP has been strongly focused on working for equity in public education for all children. The branch has been engaged in addressing public hearings and marching in the streets for children and their families who have been disenfranchised.

The branch has also been standing for more humane criminal justice reform policies. Close work has been done to help craft the first Civilian Complaint Review Board in Newark.

Civic Engagement has included letter-writing campaigns to encourage passing of the Democracy Act, hosting candidate forums, voter registration and voter education drives throughout Newark Members in the greater Newark area have volunteered countless hours to serve the community in the areas of civil rights, legal redress, education, religious affairs, health, labor, economic empowerment and political action.

The Newark Branch continues to stand for “the justice and equity of all persons and the elimination of racial discrimination in all forms.

2015-2017 NEWARK NAACP OFFICERS Deborah Smith Gregory........................................ President Kathleen Turpin Merritt................................... 1st Vice President Lavita E. Johnson................................................ 2nd Vice President John L. Smith.........................................................3rd Vice President Krystle Whitlock................................................................. Secretary Beverly Miller....................................................Assistant Secretary Cheryl Bush...........................................................................Treasurer Joyce Simmons................................................ Assistant Treasurer

2015-2017 Executive Committee

Linda Campbell Aaron Richard Cammarieri Sally G. Carroll Debra J. Chandler Nathaniel Davis, Esq. Dorothy Givens

Julia McIver Tracy L. Munford Richard H. Robinson III J. Barry Washington Cesar Vizcaino

Past Presidents of the Newark Branch NAACP …Remember, Honor, Go Forward 1916 - 1920................................ Mr. J. M. Stoute*

1967-1974...............................Ms. Sally G. Carroll

1920-....................................

Mr. R. W. Stewart*

1975-1979.....................Mr. Norman Threadgill*

Early 1930’s...................... Ms. Anna M. Monroe*

1979-1981..........................Ms. Eldora Maynard*

Mid 1930’s........................... Rev. Louis H. Berry*

1981-1984............................. Mr. Bobie Cottle Sr.

1934................................Ms. Lillian A. Simmons*

1984-1989.................................... Mr. Keith Jones

Late 30’s......................Ms. Grace B. Fenderson*

1990-1994................. Ms. Jacqueline Lawrence*

1940’s.................................. Mr. L. Leroy Baxter*

1995-1998.............................. Ms. Susie McGhee

1934-1947............................Mr. James A. Curtis*

1999-2001.......................... Mr. Daniel Williams*

1947-1950................ Hon. Harry Hazelwood Jr.*

2002-2004.....................................Mr. Keith Jones

1953-1955...................Mr. Theodore Pettigrew*

2005-2007............................. Ms. Dorothea Lee*

1955-1958...................... Mr. Samuel A. Haynes*

2007-2009................................. Mr. John L. Smith

1957.......................... Hon. Harry Hazelwood Jr.*

2009-2013............................. Ms. Joyce Simmons

1957...................................Mr. Carlton B. Norris*

2013-Present........ Ms. Deborah Smith Gregory

1963-1966.........................Rev. Boyd B. Cantrell*

* Denotes deceased members

New Jersey State, NAACP President’s Greetings

Greeting Freedom Fighters: I am proud to extend my sincere “congratulations” on behalf of the Officers, Executive Committee and Members of the New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP as you celebrate your 102nd Annual Freedom Fund Awards Brunch.

President Smith-Gregory, we thank you for your stalwart commitment towards ensuring the continued advancement of equality and justice in the city of Newark.

I personally would like to commend your Freedom Fund Awards Committee for their hard work and because of their commitment; I sincerely trust that this event will be a productive and enjoyable occasion for all present.

The New Jersey State Conference of the NAACP is very proud to publicly acknowledge the extraordinary contribution that has been made by your phenomenal honorees.

We are at a critical point in the history of our nation. A time when we as a society must choose between two paths’ one leading to a renewed goal of togetherness as one united people working together for a better future for all of us; and another path that promotes division and a slide backwards, to a past that emphasizes difference and promotes intolerance.

Let us revive our commitment today, to renewing our focus on voter education, mobilization and maintaining voting rights, making sure all children have access to a free, high quality public education, jobs, building systems of wealth and strengthening economic sustainability for all, ensuring public safety, improving Police and community relations and working to reform a broken criminal justice system.

On behalf of the leadership of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference I urge you to roll up your sleeves and do all that is necessary to insure that “OUR LIVES MATTER, OUR VOTES COUNT”.

Best wishes, Richard T. Smith President, NAACP New Jersey State Conference

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LAVITA E. JOHNSON Second Vice President, Newark NAACP 102nd Annual Freedom Fund Gala Awards Chair

“Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count” As we look and reflect on current events happening across the nation, I can’t help but wonder- how we as a nation of strong people get so far and yet remain so far behind.

As a retired Police Detective from Newark, my heart is heavy as the incidents of police involved shootings and people of color seem to be on the rise. My inclinations as an officer and my ethic roots at times collide when these stories surface. This is not a time to place blame, but a time to require accountability from all parties.

The theme for this year “Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count” is a statement not just referring to black lives but ALL lives. Yes, we are a proud nation of educated, distinguished, accomplished overcomers who while not forgetting how far we have come, remember that we have to teach subsequent generations this is what we have to face, but we don’t have to accept.

The Bible says “For whom the Son sets free is free indeed”. Yes, we are free. Yes, we have rights.

Now is the time to exercise those rights and get out and vote. We have to learn how to respond to the problem and not react. Reaction leads to violence, response leads to change. We have had enough violence to last us an eternity. Now, we need a change to last just as long.

Let’s not relive the past and allow the very rights that has been given to us be taken away because we are too busy fighting for change in the wrong venue. Our predecessors have laid the foundation for us, now we have to build and continue what they started. “Building a wall” on a weak foundation will eventually collapse. We just have to be in the right position to benefit from it. Remember “Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count”.

In November 2008, I was scheduled for another knee surgery at UMDNJ at 6:00pm. I advised the doctor that I had to VOTE first. Thank God, I did. I was able to stay awake after returning home in three (3) twenty minute intervals. One the third intervals, I saw that President Barack H. Obama had WON the election. I then cried myself back to sleep.

As I pass the torch onto the next Chairperson for the 103rd Freedom Fund Gala, please remember to keep God first. And through prayer, hard work, God’s favor and good breaks, God’s greatness will prevail…..

Lavita E. Johnson Chairperson – 102nd Freedom Fund Gala Awards

2016 Newark NAACP Excellence in Leadership Award DARNELL HENRY, NEWARK CHIEF OF POLICE

Darnell Henry was born March 1969 in the city of Newark. He was raised in the Central Ward by his mother, Vivian Henry, and his grandmother with the help of loving aunts and uncles.

From an early age, Mr. Henry knew he wanted to be a police officer but not just any police officer. Darnell Henry dreamed of becoming a Newark Police Officer.

Chief Henry graduated from Newark Technical High School and soon began to follow his dreams. He began his law enforcement career when he proudly graduated with the Newark Police Academy’s 101st Recruit Class in May 1994.

From the beginning of his career with the Newark Police Department, the then Officer Henry worked his way up through the ranks. It was not long before he began to distinguish himself. His outstanding attention to detail, unyielding follow up and impeccable work ethic made him a natural choice to be appointed to the 2nd Precinct Detective Squad in 1998 after only four short years into his career.

Shortly after being assigned to the 2nd Detective Squad, Detective Henry’s prowess was again recognized and he was assigned to the dangerous Robbery/homicide Unit, a detail in which only the best criminal investigators excel.

In 2002, he was promoted to Sergeant to lead this same prestigious unit. During his tenure as a Detective Sergeant in the Robbery /Homicide Unit, he and his detectives were responsible for bringing many of the city’s most violent criminals to justice. Detective Sergeant Henry and his squad received multiple accolades for the arrests of several suspects responsible for the heinous “Mount Vernon School Yard killings.”

As a result, in 2007, Detective Sergeant Henry was chosen to supervise the newly re-established Essex County Cold Case Unit. He and his detectives have successfully closed out numerous Cold Case Homicides and brought closure for countless families.

Detective Sergeant Henry’s reputation as an exemplary Law Enforcement Officer preceded him when he was tapped to lead the Newark Police Executive Protection Unit in July 2014. There, he was responsible for coordinating and managing the safety and well- being of the Newark Mayor, other elected officials and dignitaries.

Today, Darnell Henry enters the role in which he has been preparing for his entire life and career- Newark Police Chief. Chief Henry is a hard worker who demonstrates fairness, courtesy, humility and who is well regarded in the community. He is a family man, husband and father. He is an exemplary career police officer. His goal as Police Chief is to help the Newark Police Division and the City of Newark strengthen a partnership with the citizens of Newark to make it a model for all cities across the country.

2016 Newark NAACP Excellence in Education Award DR. JUDITH A. MILLER

Dr. Judith Miller who was born in Brooklyn is a life time resident of Montclair. Dr. Miller has spent the better part of her life motivating students and people in general, to aspire to heights of achievement they doubted they could reach. Education has been her passion.

Dr. Miller’s career included serving as the Director of the Black Studies Center at Seton Hall University from the early 70’s through the early 80’s until it became a department of the school.

She was instrumental in crafting an outstanding curriculum that featured expert teachers and professionals including the late Dr. John Henrik Clarke, Gus Heningburg and Gil Noble. While teaching others as a professor of Sociology, she also earned her Doctorate in Education in her mid- career.

She is an international traveler who has traveled to Africa, Europe, Brazil, Japan and the Caribbean.

She is proud to have taught a course on Civil Rights at the Wu Han University in China.

She has been a mentor for doctoral students forcing them to think critically and to dig for more information to impeccably support their thesis positions.

In the early 90’s, Dr. Miller served as the State Executive Director of Cities in Schools, which provided supplemental support to selected schools by interfacing with social services agencies, fostering parent/community engagement, and securing funding. The exemplary program provided support to Malcolm X Shabazz through the Burger King Academy and the NFL Giant’s Academy at Louise A. Spencer Elementary School. In each school they were able to track their success by increased retention rates, attendance and graduation.

Befitting her passion for education, she has been a Trustee since 1998 of The Turrell Fund, a philanthropic organization which has focused on education in the greater Newark area and Vermont. She is a champion for the Newark ACT-SO program and has consistently recommended funding for the 25 year old youth enrichment mentoring program.

Dr. Miller was married for 40 years to the late renowned artist Don Miller who created the King Mural that is displayed in the Memorial Library in Washington, DC. and the well regarded Triptych for Bethany Baptist Church.

She is a proud mother of two sons and three grandchildren.

2016 Newark NAACP Entrepreneurial Award JEFF BILLINGSLEY

Born and raised in Newark, social entrepreneur and consultant Jeff Billingsley is the Chief Executive Officer of Cobblestone Multimedia, an Independent Multimedia Company that is comprised of a music, film & television production group, casting agency and professional audio recording services located in Newark.

He studied Business at Essex County College and Rutgers Newark. He holds Mini MBA in Digital Marketing from Rutgers University, New Brunswick and is a Leadership Newark Alumnus.

He currently stands at the helm of several apprenticeship programs for youth and adults in partnership with Rutgers, Essex County College and Berklee College of Music City Music Network.

At Cobblestone Multimedia, Jeff understands the importance of collaboration and has partnered with ACE Media, Corp, Indigi Music, Newart Film, The Waterfront, Newark Riverfront, Newark Riverfront Revival, Ironbound Film Studios, the new Newark International Film Festival and The Newark Office of Film & Television on numerous ventures.

Mr. Billingsley’s resume includes notable positions including movie producer and Music Consultant for the award winning feature film “Gimme Shelter” starring Vanessa Hudgens, Rosario Dawson, Brendan Fraser and the legendary James Earl Jones. He was Associate Producer for the award winning and critically acclaimed Short Film “Ugly” that also screen at the 2016 Cannes, France.

He is Associate Producer and Music Supervisor for the award winning Docu-Drama entitled “Surviving the Streets”.

Currently Mr. Billingsley is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the Rutgers, Center for Urban Entrepreneurs and Economic Development for the Newark Business Hub. This initiative involves notable Newark area creative business owners.

He is a member of the Quincy Jones Music Consortium, Director of Community Relations for Harlan Media, Director of Rutgers University’s Project C.O.R.E. & S.E.A.R.C.H. He is a consultant for the N.J. Department of Labor and At-Risk Youth Program Consultant and a contracted vendor.

In addition, he has worked with the Rutgers Police Institute’s Operation Ceasefire Anti- Gun Violence Program and Public Education Campaign. He is also a member of ASCAP and BMI through Cobblestone Music Publishing.

Mr. Billingsley has always yearned to make a difference in the lives of youth. With multiple successful programs under his tutelage and entertainment industry relations, Billingsley is making a difference in his community, music, film and the lives of the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.

2016 Newark NAACP Sally G. Carroll Legacy Award CAROLYN THOMPSON-WALLACE

Born in Jersey City, Carolyn has resided in Newark since age five. She attended Charlton Street Elementary School and South Side High School (now Malcolm X Shabazz). Upon graduation, she received additional training in Business and Human Relations Techniques from the former Total Employment and Manpower (T.E.A.M.) and also received training through the NJ Department of Civil Service.

Her administrative and secretarial training and work experience gave her the necessary knowledge to establish the foundation of the International Youth Organization (IYO).

Her dedication and commitment to the development of youth moved her to assist them and her faith gave her the courageous fortitude to persevere when funds were low and grants scarce.

Working directly with her husband the late James Wallace, founder of IYO, the couple worked tirelessly to support and counsel thousands of at risk young people. When society counted these young people as hopeless, Carolyn and Jim embraced them and the odds of success were phenomenal. For 45 years, the IYO has been the sole provider for the State of New Jersey’s disconnected youth and young adult population of Essex County. They purchased buildings on South 12st St. in Newark and have provided an oasis for young people and their families.

The IYO NJ Youth Corps was established to provide a second chance to high school non-completers to obtain academic enrichment, develop work skills and development of life skills needed to become productive citizens. IYO’s history has included collaborations and partnerships with local, state and national agencies. Under the IYO Crime Prevention through Job Creation initiative, there are hundreds of youth and young adults who have been gainfully employed.

IYO first gained recognition for its Youth Leadership Development and Family Preservation Component that serviced in school youth from 5 -17 years. The program allowed parents and grandparents the opportunity to further their own education or maintain employment with the comfort of knowing their children were also in a safe and learning environment at IYO. Audiences viewing her on television or in person have been moved by the sincerity of her down-toearth values and folksy wit. Ms. Wallace has been featured on the CBS documentary “Crisis in America –Vanishing Black Family”, Straight Talk and Currents. She has testified before the U.S. Congressional Committee several times and the Congressional Black Caucus on topics such as Welfare Reform, Family Strengths, Youth & Crime, Youth Development and the Block Grant Process.

For nearly 50 years, IYO has serviced, trained and developed over 40,000 youth and their families. IYO is known both locally and nationally. Their mission statement: to empower disenfranchised youth and their families to take responsibility for themselves and their community through programs and services that promote positive social and civic values; to create opportunities for self-improvement through academic instruction, employability training and volunteer community service/work based learning and to implement intervention strategies designed to foster family stabilization and neighborhood preservation.

Ms. Wallace is the author of Chapter three of the Black Family: Past, Present and Future. She is the mother of three sons, the stepmother of two and the adopted mother on one. She has received countless awards throughout her tenure including NJ Hero Award, Governor Pride, Newark Municipal Council and the Star Ledger.

2016 Newark NAACP Community Service Award BRO. SHELTON J. PRESCOTT GRAND MASTER, MOST WORSHIPFUL PRINCE HALL GRAND LODGE OF NEW JERSEY Bro. Shelton J. Prescott, Grand Master, Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New Jersey.

Shelton J. Prescott born on April 5, 1974 to Johnny and Shirley Prescott in Paterson, is a product of the Paterson Public Schools system. He graduated from John F. Kennedy High School as an honors student-athlete. While at Kennedy, Shelton was a member of the National Honor Society, Who's Who among High School Students in America, and sportswriter for the high school newspaper and yearbook committee. As a senior Shelton was one of the top high school football prospects in the state of New Jersey and Northeast Region. He was heavily recruited by a host of Division-I football programs throughout the country. He decided to attend Syracuse University where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Child Development, and lettered four years as a football player.

While at Syracuse University Shelton was selected First Team All-Big East and All-ECAC as an offensive lineman. He also received numerous awards and honors from the Syracuse Football Program including: The Athletic Director’s Honor Roll, Bill Maxwell Award for Most Improved Offensive Player, Duffy Daugherty Award for “Player’s Player and Coaches Coach,” and the Syracuse Keystone Offensive Player of the Year Award. As a winning participant of the Fiesta Bowl, Gator Bowl and Liberty Bowl games, Shelton competed with and against some of the most outstanding football players in College/NFL history: Quarterback Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles), Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison (Indianapolis Colts), Linebacker Keith Bullock (Tennessee Titans/NY Giants), Cornerback Will Allen (NY Giants/ Miami Dolphins), Defensive Back Brian Dawkins (Philadelphia Eagles/Denver Broncos), Linebacker Ray Lewis (Baltimore Ravens), and Hall of Famer Warren Sapp (Tampa Bay Buccaneers ).

Upon graduation Shelton accepted a job as a Special Education Teacher at his alma mater, John F. Kennedy High School where he continues to serve on their staff in the same capacity. While at John F. Kennedy High School, Shelton earned his Masters of Arts Degree in Special Education from New Jersey City University. In addition, Shelton, a 2014 Governor’s Teacher of the Year recipient has worked on the following programs in the field of academics and athletics for the Paterson Public Schools System: Facilitator--Boys Leadership Summit, Mentor-Juvenile Division of Probation, Football Coach (John F. Kennedy H.S.), Site Coordinator--Paterson Educational Partnership for the 21st Century (PEP-21), Site Coordinator—Leading Edge Pre-High School Academy Summer Program, John F. Kennedy H.S. Image Initiative Committee, John F. Kennedy H.S. Liaison Committee, Extended School Year and Twilight Credit Recovery Evening School.

On June 2015, Shelton became the 88th Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New Jersey, making him the youngest Grand Master in office (current) throughout the United States and abroad. During his short time in the "Oriental Chair," Shelton is having one of the most progressive tenures in recent history; establishing the Inaugural Prince Hall Community Festival, Historically Black College/University Bus Tour, increase in the Annual Scholarship purse, and many statewide partnerships to fight violence in the community, poor education, voter suppression, autism awareness and prostate cancer awareness.

2016 Newark NAACP Congressman Donald M. Payne Sr. Social Justice Award OADLINE D. TRUITT

Oadline D. Truitt was born, August 2, 1940 to the union of Melvania Rhymes and Doc Twayne. She is the oldest of three siblings. She was educated in the Ware County School System in Blackshear, GA before moving to Newark.

In January of 1961, she married the love of her life, Mr. Barney Truitt Sr. (deceased) and to this union three children were born. Michelle Delores Truitt-West (deceased) , Barney Jr. and Cynthia Truitt-Rease.

She held various jobs such as a Certified Radiologist, US Postal Service before pursuing her passion… education.

Her involvement with her children’s education, moved her to become an active parent in their school.

She was the President of the Bragaw Avenue School PTA and held this positon for many years even afterl her children had moved on to high school and college.

She and good friend Carole Graves, former County Registrar, led countless fights for quality, fair education for the children in the South Ward. She was a strong parent leader who took a stand for their safety when the construction of Route 78 threatened her neighborhood by splitting up the streets with the highway in the middle of the community. She made sure the elementary school children were provided with safe transportation to the Bragaw Ave Annex on Lyons Ave. She desired to advance her education and attended Essex County College graduating in 1976 and went on to earn her B.S. in Education/Library Media.

Upon graduation, she gained employment with the Irvington Board of Education at Irvington High School as a Librarian and then transferred to Myrtle Middle School now called University Middle School.

During her tenure there, she was asked to accept the nomination as Assemblywoman of the 28th Legislative District for the State of New Jersey to complete the unexpired term of the Late Donald K. Tucker. She accepted and served with grace and dignity for two terms. As Assemblywoman, she served on the State Education Committee.

She retired from the Irvington School System in 2007 after 27 years. She is still educating others on the enhancement and impact that education has on today’s youth.

Ms. Truitt has been part of the Essex County Democratic Committee for over 30 years as a South Ward District Leader for District 22.

Ms. Oadline Truitt has many honors, and affiliations including being a Silver Life member of the Newark NAACP; Legislator of the Year, 2007; Special Congressional Recognition, 2009; Essex County Education Association for Distinguished Service to Education; Essex County Hall of Fame and John Sharpe James Appreciation Award 2016.

She has had a vested interest in her neighborhood and has been a pillar in the community for over 50 years.

2016 Newark NAACP Branch Service Award LAVITA E. JOHNSON

Lavita E. Johnson was born February 19, 1971 in Newark, NJ. She grew up in a single family household with her mom, two sisters and two brothers. She excelled in the elementary schools she attended and graduated as one of the Top Ten from Malcolm X Shabazz High School.

She graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and minor in African American Studies.

She always has had a strong work ethic and held jobs throughout high school. In addition to attending her classes at Montclair State, she also worked on campus in the Associate Dean of Students Officer for the Director of Special Events & Conferences. While in college, she was advised that the Newark Police Department exam was available. She applied and scored in the top ten percent. Shortly after, she was called to go into the Newark Police Academy. On February 27, 1995, she was one of 204 police recruits which included the Kearny, West Orange and Bloomfield Police Departments. It was the largest class of recruits and the largest class of females in the history of the department under the administration of the Honorable Mayor Sharpe James and Police Director William Celester.

Her first command was the South District Precinct, in her childhood neighborhood for three years.

Being a product of the community enabled her to be a true community officer. She spent a year in the Target Division in plain clothes, before returning back to South District Patrol . Under Commander Gagliano, she worked in the Criminal Investigation Division, a special undercover operation that recouped over $1.5 million back to the City of Newark in the year she was on staff. She completed her career in the Auto Crimes Division dealing with auto crimes and hit & run accidents.

On May 8, 2008, she retired from the Newark Police Department due to an off-duty motorcycle accident that nearly took her life. She is a survivor of 30 right knee surgeries, 4 right elbow surgeries, two partial strokes and two muscle transplants. Despite her medical challenges, she is still very active in her community and serves on several boards including the Newark Bronze Shields, and the Scholarship Committee which raised over $70,000 from 2008 – 2016 to send Newark high school seniors to college. She is a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge # 12, the Essex County Democratic Women’s Association, the National Black Police Association and Giblin Civic Association. She currently serves as the Chairperson for the Ivy Hill Neighborhood Association Block Watch Committee and oversees the training of residents to become official block watchers.

In October 2011, she joined the Newark Branch NAACP. She was elected to serve on the Executive Committee 2012. In 2014, she was elected as the 2nd Vice-President. She has served as the Chairperson for the 101st Freedom Fund Gala Brunch for 2015 and is the 2016 Chairperson for the 102nd Freedom Fund Gala Brunch.

She is a woman who is determined not to let anything stop her. Her accident taught her how to adapt to life’s changes and has deepened her faith. Well known throughout the community, she uses a boundless energy to advocate for her community. She also uses her prior training as a police officer to help keep her community safe not only for the residents of her neighborhood but the entire city.

Lavita is a member of Christian Pentecostal Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Pastor Jerry & Lady Sharonda Smith in Irvington, New Jersey.

She notes: “Working as a volunteer at the Newark Branch NAACP office has taught me to stand for justice, stand for equality and stand for freedom. And with GOD, all things are POSSIBLE….”

102nd Freedom Fund Gala Awards Mistress of Ceremony ROZ MILLER-CHOICE

Roz Miller-Choice is a writer and author of 5 books on Real Estate Investing.

She just completed her first children’s book based on the life of her little dog named Pooch.

It is expected to be published later this year with 100% of the profits benefiting animal shelters.

In addition Roz is the Producer of a series on-line courses teaching public relations, marketing and investing.

Many people know Roz from her Television Reporter career. She worked as a News Reporter for CNN, WCBS-TV and FOX-TV. She co-hosted the travel show called “Discover New Jersey” on New Jersey Network Television. She was also a well-known Reporter on Fox-TV’s Black news show called “The McCreary Report.”

Her production company produced the videos used in the fundraising effort to create the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which opened in Washington, D.C. She was also among a group selected to assist First Lady Michelle Obama’s outreach effort to inform citizens of their healthcare options.

For the last 15 years, on Thanksgiving Day she works with her husband who is the President of Million Man Montclair to coordinate an event to feed Senior citizens and the disabled.

With the help of 70+ volunteers, they feed between 600-750 people in that one-day effort, delivering meals door-to-door.

In 2013 Roz established a college scholarship fund in honor of her mother. It is geared toward assisting youth from her old Brooklyn neighborhood, as they pursue higher education.

She is also celebrating her 20th anniversary as a mentor.

Throughout the years Roz has been involved with reading to the blind population, assisting veterans and helping victims of domestic violence.

Currently she is the spokesperson for a fundraising project to raise money for a Women’s Homeless Shelter in Montclair.

102nd Freedom Fund Gala Awards Keynote Speaker

QUOVELLA M. SPRUILL CHIEF OF DETECTIVES

Chief Quovella M. Spruill is the first African American Female Chief of Detectives in the Essex County Prosecutor's Office and the State of New Jersey. She has worked in government and has been a public employee for almost 30 years. She has served nearly twenty years in the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, rising through the ranks from detective, lieutenant, captain and deputy chief.

She has been assigned to various units including child abuse/sex crimes, homicide and internal affairs. She has supervised many other units within the office, previously serving as Acting Chief in the Chief’s short term absence. She manages more than 130 sworn officers and investigatory personnel.

Chief Spruill began her public service with the City of Newark as a student assistant and rose to become a manager in the City's Neighborhood Services before going to the Prosecutor’s Office.

As a manager, she managed millions of dollars in City and grant funds, as well as a staff of 40 city employees.

She is a graduate of Saint Vincent Academy; earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from NJIT and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Training & Development from Seton Hall University.

She most recently completed the FBI LEEDA program at Princeton University.

She has received recognition from the community, her peers and other law enforcement agencies within the State of New Jersey. She is a volunteer for the New Jersey Orators and faithfully serves when called upon by the community.

Chief Spruill is married with two children, ages 10 and 13.

James Hunter Morris World Premiere of National Award Winning Composer

The Newark Afro Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) is proud to announce the achievements of James H. Morris.

James 17, who joined the Newark ACT-SO Team in 2013, is a June graduate from Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy in Elizabeth.

James represented the Newark ACT-SO Team at the 38th Annual NAACP ACT-SO Competition held in Cincinnati in July.

Students from across the country gather to display their talents in STEM, humanities, visual and performing arts.

James has become an accomplished composer and added to his portfolio of medals by earning a national Silver Medal in Music Composition this year. He has earned a total of seven medals from both the state and national competitions.

James will be attending Westminster College this Winter to continue his musical studies and enhance his composition skills as a rising, major composer in the field of classical music.

Introducing James Hunter Morris‌.

— NEWARK NAACP —

102nd Annual Freedom Fund Awards Gala Program Musical Prelude........................................................................................................ Natural Blend Band Processional................................................................................................................................Honorees Welcome....................................................................... Lavita E. Johnson, Freedom Fund Chairperson

2nd Vice-President – Newark Branch NAACP The 102nd Freedom Fund Awards Mistress of Ceremony.....................................Roz Miller Choice Invocation....................... Reverend Ronald L. Slaughter, Senior Pastor, Saint James A.M.E. Church “Lift Every Voice & Sing”.......................................................................................... Natural Blend Band Greetings.............................................. Deborah Smith Gregory, President - Newark Branch NAACP

Phil Murphy, NJ Member - National Board of the NAACP

Mayor Ras J. Baraka, City of Newark

Brunch Is Served - Musical Prelude Introduction of The 102nd Freedom Fund Awards Keynote Speaker..................Ceremony Host The 102nd Freedom Fund Awards Keynote Speaker...........Quovella Spruill, Chief of Detectives

Awards Presentations

Essex County Prosecutor’s Office

Excellence in Leadership Award...... Darnell Henry, Chief of Police – Newark Police Department Excellence in Education Award.... Dr. Judith A. Miller, Retired Professor – Seton Hall University Entrepreneurial Award.......................................... Jeff Billingsley, CEO - Cobblestone Multimedia Performance..............................James E. Hunter, Composer- Newark ACT-SO National Medalist

Awards Presentations Sally G. Carroll Legacy Award.......................... Carolyn Thompson-Wallace, Co-Founder of I.Y.O. Community Service Award

Shelton J. Prescott, Grand Master, Most Worshipful - Prince Hall Grand Lodge of NJ

Congressman Donald M. Payne, Sr. Award.............. Oadline D. Truitt, Former Assemblywoman Branch Service Award............................................ Lavita E. Johnson, Freedom Fund Chairperson

2nd Vice-President – Newark Branch NAACP

Performance............................................................................................................Malcolm Q. Minor Acknowledgement of Membership Honor Guard...................................................Ceremony Host Acknowledgements................................................ Lavita E. Johnson, Freedom Fund Chairperson

2nd Vice-President – Newark Branch NAACP

Closing Remarks..............................Deborah Smith Gregory, President - Newark Branch NAACP Benediction............................................................. Elder Judith C. Favors, Greater Rose of Sharon Musical Entertainment........................................................................................Natural Blend Band

NEWARK BRANCH NAACP

Life Membership Program THE HONOR GUARD

2016 FULLY PAID REGULAR LIFE MEMBERS ($500) JUDITH FAVORS SADIE B. JOHNSON

2016 FULLY PAID SIVER LIFE MEMBERS ($750) DEBRA J. CHANDLER YVETTE FEAGIN RICHARD KOONTZ DEBORAH STAPLETON OADLINE TRUITT DR. C. THEODORE PINCKNEY

2016 FULLY PAID GOLD LIFE MEMBERS ($1,500)

BURNELL LOWERY

2016 DIAMOND LIFE MEMBERS ($2,500) * CARRIE B. ALSTON (D)

* LEOLA HILL

JANICE L. MORRELL

* CHERYL D. BUSH

* LUCILLE HUNTER

WILLA L. MOYE

* SALLY G. CARROLL

JANICE HARRIS JACKSON

OLA MAE RIVERS

SHARON PRICE CATES

KEITH M. JONES

CAMERON I. ROBINSON

DONNA MARIE CURVIN

A.HOWARD LAMAR

REV. MALACHI D. ROUNDTREE

* PERCY DAVIS

EDDIEMAE LIVINGSTON (D)

BERNICE SANDERS (D)

* DOROTHY M. GIVENS

HELEN P. MEANS

HARVEY L. SLATEN

CAROLE A. GRAVES

* KATHLEEN TURPIN MERRITT * BARBARA ANN WADE

* MAMIE GUS HALE

* SUSIE M. MCGHEE

J. BARRY WASHINGTON*

WOMAN’S LEAGUE OF BETHANY BAPTIST CHURCH (Posthumously) DANIEL WILLIAMS, WILLIAM TROUBLEFIELD *Indicates Fully Paid

1914

NEWARK BRANCH NAACP 2016 Proudly Salutes Its Gold and Golden Heritage Life Members *George L. Atkinson

Harold Flowers

Harry L. Slaten

Mary B. Atkinson

Elizabeth Gibbs

Thelma Boyd Smith

Mitchell Black

James L. Gibbs

Deborah Smith Gregory

Cleo E. Blount

Hon. Thomas P. Giblin

Daisy Stokes

*Daniel Blue

James Harrison, Jr.

Susan A. Sykes

Rebecca L. Bowen

William D. Highsmith

Philip S. Thomas

Lovetta Brooks

Walter E. Jackson

Bernice H. Wallace

Jessie Bryant

Wimphrey Jenkins

Theodore V. Wells, Esq.

Raymond Bryant

Doris Nicholson

Dr. Eleby R. Washington

Patricia Burroughs

Nathaline Page

Curtis J. Way

Delores C. Carter

William D. Payne

Constance B. White

George L. Cato

*Wilbur Parker

Mary R. White

Rev. Irving A. Childress

Eddie L. Porter

Bernice Williams

Bobie Cottle (D)

Vivian Sanks-King, Esq.

Dr. A. Zachary Yamba

Bennie Fields

Yvonne Eastwick Sealy

E. Alma Flagg

Isabelle Sauls

ORGANIZATIONS NAACP Newark Unit Newark Teachers Union, Local 481 Beta Alpha Omega, Alpha Kappa Alpha Newark Bronze Shields, Inc. Garden State Bar Association Kappa Alpha Psi-Newark Alumni Chapter Past Matrons Auxiliary-Queen of Sheba Grand Chapter, OES Local 699 Laborers Int’l Union of North America Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church North Jersey Union National Assoc. Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club New Hope Baptist Church North Jersey Duplicate Bridge Club North Jersey Epicureans, Inc. Zion Hill Baptist Church *Indicates deceased

Best Wishes

Thomas P. Giblin 34th District Assemblyman

ď‚š

Clifton # East Orange Montclair #Orange

Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. 10th District – New Jersey

Salutes

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People -Newark BranchOn its

102nd Annual Freedom Fund Gala "Our Lives Matter, Our Votes Count"

Best Wishes to the Newark Branch NAACP

And President Deborah Smith Gregory Continue to have the courage to stand for the principles that lead to a better quality of life for all.

The Gregory Family The Smith Family The Esteves Family The Anderson Family

Our children can't vote, but you can.

Vote! 2016 "Let's Vote and together we can make democracy work."

Christopher J. Durkin Essex County Clerk

The Members of the ESSEX COUNTY

BOARD OF CHOSEN FREEHOLDERS

Offer Their Support and Congratulations to the NEWARK BRANCH OF THE NAACP & ITS HONOREES

On the Occasion of the

102nd Annual Freedom Fund Awards Gala Saturday, October 1, 2016

Britnee N. Timberlake President

Rolando Bobadilla

Rufus I. Johnson

Wayne L. Richardson

Brendan W. Gill Vice President Lebby C. Jones

Patricia Sebold

Leonard M. Luciano Cynthia D. Toro

U.S. Senator Bob Menendez Congratulates the Newark NAACP 2016 Freedom Fund Honorees: Oadline Truitt Darnell Henry Dr. Judith Miller Carolyn Wallace Jeff Billingsley Grand Master Shelton J. Prescott Lavita E. Johnson

Paid for by New Millennium PAC, 700 13th Street NW, Suite 600, Washington DC 2005-3960, and not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee

IN SOLIDARITY

...AND JUSTICE AND EQUALITY FOR ALL!

The 200,000 members of the New Jersey Education Association proudly support the

2016 Annual Freedom Fund Award & the NAACP Newark Unit

NJEA knows that when families & schools work together, our children are the WINNERS! Wendell Steinhauer, NJEA President Marie Blistan, NJEA Vice President Sean M. Spiller, NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Edward J. Richardson, NJEA Executive Director Steve Swetsky, NJEA Assistant Executive Director

Newark Municipal Council

Congratulate The Newark Branch NAACP On 102 years of Civil Rights Activism

Mildred C. Crump, Council President Augusto Amador, East Ward John S. James, South Ward Carlos M. Gonzalez, At Large Anibal Ramos, Jr., North Ward Gayle Chaneyfield Jenkins, Central Ward Joe McCallum, West Ward Eddie Osborne, At Large Luis A. Quintana, At Large

U N IVER SIT Y | N EWAR K

In Newark, of Newark

Rutgers University – Newark proudly supports the Newark Branch of the NAACP and salutes this year’s Community Champions!

The Newark Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Gala - 2016

Best Wishes…

Essex - West Hudson Labor Council, AFL-CIO Thomas P. Giblin…………..……………………….…..………. President Walter V. Genuario……………......………... Exec. Secretary/ Treasurer Gerald W. Owens.……………………………..….…. Financial Secretary Charles N. Hall, Jr..…………….….……………..… First Vice President Nancy Miller……… ……..……………………….… Recording Secretary Willie Haggan……………………….…..………...…… Sergeant At Arms Msgr. John J. Gilchrist ……………...…………….… Spiritual Director

Vice Presidents John M. Abeigon William F. Mullins Bernard W. Gerard, Jr. William J. Kennedy

Theresa K. Calhoun

Trustees

Michael D. Lewis

Lino Santiago William Sullivan Eric Williams

John LoCrasto

ESSEX - WEST HUDSON LABOR COUNCIL 30th ANNUAL LABOR BREAKFAST SUNDAY, JUNE 4, 2017 THE CHANDELIER, BELLEVILLE, N.J.

LOCAL 108, RWDSU, UFCW, AFL-CIO EXECUTIVE BOARD & STAFF PROUDLY SUPPORTS THE NEWARK NAACP AT YOUR NEWARK FREEDOM FUND GALA

Executive Board Members Charles N Hall Jr Patricia Gonzalez Tina McCaskill Luz Ladino Edwin Cruz George Giordano (retired) Jasper Parnell (retired) Charlie N Hall, Sr (emeritus)

CONGRATULATIONS TO

The Newark Branch of the NAACP

Celebrating 102 Years of Civil Rights Activism

at their Annual

FREEDOM FUND DINNER

Focusing on “Our Lives Matter…Our Votes Count”

Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. Essex County Executive Paid for by Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. for County Executive, Inc.

Metropolitan Baptist Church

Salutes

Mrs. Carrie B. Alston (1917-2016)

and the Newark Branch NAACP She was a lifetime (1953) member of Metropolitan Baptist Church. In addition, for more than six decades, Ms. Carrie Alston served the Newark Branch. She was a Diamond Life Member, the membership recruiter for Metropolitan Baptist Church and served on various committees including scholarship, and religious affairs. She will be dearly missed.

Metropolitan Baptist Church Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr., Pastor Willie R. Burke. Deacon Ministry Chairman Hubert Graham, Trustee Ministry Chairman

I COMMEND THE NEWARK BRANCH NAACP FOR THE OUTSTANDING WORK YOU DO TO ELIMINATE RACIAL INJUSTICE. WILLIAM D. PAYNE GOLDEN HERITAGE LIFE MEMBER

Best Wishes NAACP

The Newark Branch On Your Annual Freedom Fund Gala Brunch Buffet Your Dedication & Service Are Vital to Our Community

ARMANDO B. FONTOURA Essex County Sheriff

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Proud to Support Newark NAACP 102nd Freedom Fund Gala Brunch

Superior Officers’ Association Newark Police Department John J. Chrystal III - President Alexander Martinez - 1st Vice President Don Robertella - 2nd Vice President Grissel Nieves-Hall - Secretary Gary D. Vickers - Treasurer Victor Manata - Sergeant-At-Arms

Cheryl D. Bush, Executive Director

420 Hawthorne Ave. Newark, NJ 07112 Email: info@clintonhillcommunity.org

P: 973-372-88877

F: 973-372-5685

Website:www.clintonhillcommunity.org

On behalf of the

CLINTON HILL COMMUNITY & Early Childhood Center, Inc. Family We like to congratulate you on your st 101 Newark NAACP Freedom Fund Awards Gala A Salute to your President Ms. Deborah Smith Gregory

Respectfully, Ms. Cheryl D. Bush, CHCC Staff, Our Parents and Mr. Harold Edwards, Chairman

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Congratulations Ms. Oadline D. Truitt and the

Newark Branch of the NAACP for your proven Leadership in the Fight for Civil Rights!

Cynthia A. Truitt-Rease I LOVE YOU AND I AM SO PROUD TO CALL YOU MOM

Congratulations Newark NAACP Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

North Jersey Alumnae Chapter Serving Essex, Hudson and Union Counties since 1939 Monica D. Burton, Ph.D. President

NJAC is proud to be a subscribing Gold Life Member of the Newark Branch www.NorthJerseyDeltas.org Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter &YouTube

CONGRATULATIONS TO Our Mom

Ms. Oadline D. Truitt ON YOUR YEARS OF DEDICATION AND SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY

WE LOVE YOU… UNCONDITIONALY Cynthia & Barney, Jr.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center applauds the honorees of

The Newark Branch NAACP’s 102nd Freedom Fund Gala for their admirable leadership and community spirit.

NJPAC is proud to join the Newark Branch NAACP in advancing cultural and civic awareness among the citizens of Newark and beyond.

N e w J e r s e y Pe r f o r m i n g A r t s C e n t e r • O n e C e n t e r S t r e e t , N e w a r k , N J

NAACP Journal ad_8.5w x 5.5h.indd 1

9/13/16 12:26 PM

Montclair State University

Locals 1904 and 6025 and their Faculty, Adjunct, Professional Staff and Specialist members extend their heartfelt congratulations to the

Newark NAACP

in support of The 2016 Freedom Fund Gala and The NAACP’s 102 years of Civil Rights Activism

celebrates the Newark Chapter of the NAACP The Newark Branch of the NAACP has worked tirelessly to raise the visibility of critical issues impacting the African American community, and has honored those who have committed their lives to service and social justice.

Long-standing service has included advocacy programs for: education, housing, labor, criminal justice, health and political action.

There is synergy with YouthBuild Newark as it continues to empower opportunity youth and young adults to transform their lives through: rigorous academics, vocational training and credentialing, leadership development, personal development, social justice, and more.

YouthBuild Newark salutes the Newark Chapter and its long-term commitment to our community.

Congratulations!

CWA Local 1081 Congratulates the Newark NAACP’s Awards Recipients David H. Weiner, President

Millar Sheetmetal Co., Inc Peter & Maggie Millar Salutes the National Association for the Advancement of Color People Newark Branch On your 102nd Freedom Fund Gala Expressly to Lavita E. Johnson and our most deserving honorees

We Are Missionaries 2nd Timothy 4:1-5 NKJV

Congratulations on your 102 years of civil rights activism and to all of your honorees.

Senator Ronald L. Rice 28th Legislative District

Philemon Missionary Baptist Church

246 Shephard Avenue Newark, New Jersey 07112 Reverend Edward A. Allen Sr., Pastor Sister Jean Cheek-Raspberry, President

— Congratulations Lavita — MANDEL & SAWYER, P.C Attorneys at Law

Jeffrey E. Mandel Suite 200 45 Essex Street Millburn, NJ 07041

(t) 973.379.2900 (f) 973.379.2922 jeffreyemandel@verizon.net

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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE-NEWARK BRANCH AND ALL HONOREES. WE SALUTE YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO AND WORK FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE. If there is no struggle, there is no progress Frederick Douglass

Best Wishes to the Newark NAACP as you

Continue Your Struggle.

Charles and Zelma Collins

Congratulations Lavita

The South Ward Special Improvement District proudly supports and appreciates the

NAACP Freedom Fund Ronice M. Bruce, Exec Director Phil Gilmore, Sr., Board President st Darrell Terry, Sr, 1 Sr. VP Marilyn Harris, 2nd Sr. VP Atiya Rashidi, VP Angela Pedone, Secretary Linda Campbell, Treasurer The BLC-SID is compromised of property and business owners, residents and clergy from the South Ward Business District. The mission of the BLC-SID Our mission is to enhance and sustain the South Ward as a 1st choice destination to invest, live, shop, work, play, worship, and access quality health care. www.southwardsid.org

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NEWARK NAACP News Volume 1. Issue 1 October 1, 2016

National Call for Moratorium on Charter Schools Expansion

By Deborah Smith Gregory, Newark NAACP President

The story of Newark, NJ is a tale of two cites, driven by unbridled charter school expansion creating separate and unequal school districts.

Trenton legislators refuse to pass legislation requiring accountability and transparency in the governance and practices of these schools.

With a courage of conviction, The NAACP passed a resolution calling for a Moratorium on Charter School Expansion and Strengthening of Oversight in Governance and Practice at our National 2016 Convention in Cincinnati.

When we examine how children with special needs in public schools are denied access to resources funneled to the Educational Management Organizations (aka EMOs or Charter Schools) such as KiPP and Uncommon Schools, the need for such a moratorium becomes obvious.

The need for such a moratorium is obvious, especially when we examine how children with special needs in public schools are denied access to resources funneled to the Educational Management Organizations (EMO’s, otherwise known as Charter Schools) such as KiPP and Uncommon Schools.

This so-called “reform” is not meant to advance children but rather an endless series of policy reforms that benefit highly paid consultants and education reform companies. Our schools have been plundered and pillaged of public financial resources under a superficial banner of “parental choice.”

As the charter schools continually skim off “regular” children, Newark Public Schools are rapidly becoming a dumping ground for special needs children. But the resources needed to support these children are not available as the District contends with a deficit in the millions based on the mismanagement by the former superintendent, coupled with the high costs of sustaining growth and expansion of charter schools in our district. (continues on page 4)

Historic Newark Civilian Complaint Review Board The city of Newark under the administration of Mayor Ras J. Baraka has created a page in history in establishing a Civilian Complaint Review Board. This Board will be the first in NJ. With a climate of distrust of the police that permeates our country, the many killings of Black men and women, the Civilian Review Board is a progressive step in building a bridge in Newark between the Police and the community.

The inequity is vicious given charter schools can benefit from both public dollars taken from the school districts as well as private funds that do not have to be publicly disclosed. The former superintendent, under the direction of then-NJ Education Commissioner Chris Cerf, had carte blanche authority to launch a grand experiment on our children with school closures, school co-locations, failed reform models and the infamous Employees Without Placement Pool created in 2012.

As a result of this massive waste of public resources, millions of dollars were spent to place teachers and administrators in a holding pattern until they signed agreements, resigned or retired. It was only after a consistent public outcry that they were finally assigned to schools in lieu of substitutes although they still were not allowed to teach in their certificated areas.

When the community voices opposition to the practices of a separate and unequal school district, we are accused of being anti-charter, anti-choice and against educational advancement for children in the name of education reform.

Newly installed Civilian Complaint Review Board includes NAACP Rick Robinson (far right)

Table of Contents National Call for Moratorium on Charter Schools Expansion............................................................................ 1 Historic Newark Civilian Complaint Review Board..... 1 Health & Wellness Fair..................................................... 2 Membership Soiree and Scholarship Reception....... 4

Justice Department reaches Agreement with Newark Police Department The Newark Branch NAACP has a seat on the newly formed board that consists of community organizations including People’s Organization for Progress, ACLU, Newark Anti-Violence Coalition, Ironbound Community Corporation with two appointments from the Newark Municipal Council.

In a release dated March 2016, an agreement with the City of Newark and Department of Justice was formed following an investigation of the Newark Police Department.

The agreement is designed to enhance police practices and embrace better relationships with the community. In the agreement is the recommendation of an oversight entity regarding the NPD as well as wide ranging reform. In addition to the Civilian Complaint Review Board, a Federal Monitor has also been assigned.

Dad and daughter check out books.

Newark sponsors Fathers and Families Health & Wellness Fair: Connecting to Care Fathers and their families were invited to get healthy for life at University Hospital during the NAACP sponsored Fair. Dads came out to get blood pressure screening, yoga sessions, massages and an outstanding lecture by Lloyd Brown, MD.

Bicycle pedaling provides power for making Smoothies provided by Newark Science and Sustainability Inc.

Meeting Speakers inform Membership about Financial Literacy and Port Newark Hiring Dr. Lloyd Brown, Surgeon, Rutgers School of Medicine and Freeholder Richardson with NAACP Leaders, Tracy Munford, Kathleen Merritt, and Marjorie Innocent.

Newark President Deborah Gregory greets Congressman Donald Payne, Jr. with Stacie Newton, Acting Executive Director of Public Affairs at University Hospital and Marjorie Innocent, national NAACP

Newark membership meetings bring in speakers to share information. The monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday at One Court Street in Newark from 7pm-9pm. Meetings are open to the public.

Please note: meetings will change to the second Tuesday of the month beginning January 2017.

City National Bank Branch Manager Linda Campbell and associate gave a financial literary workshop at a monthly meeting.

68

Al-Turrick Kenny, Port Newark Manager for the City of Newark addresses a meeting about the status of hiring more residents at the Port. Both speakers are members of the Newark Branch.

Don’t forget to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Membership Soiree and Scholarship Reception Newark NAACP Membership Reception

Students assemble with their families after receiving their certificates.

On far left are President Gregory and 2nd Vice President Lavita Johnson.

Diamond Life Member, Dorothy Givens receives her plaque at Membership Soiree. She is also Health Chairperson for the Branch.

National Voter Registration Day NAACP and Delta Theta Sigma Partner for Voter Registration at Essex County College L.to R. Debra Chandler, PAC for Newark NAACP and Deltas, Amber Brown, college student volunteer, and Robin Talmadge Jackson, Delta Social Action Chairperson

Sydney and Jan Jackson celebrated their anniversary at Membership Reception.

Social Studies teacher helps student to register to vote at Newark high school

69

Amber Brown, Newark student studying at Rowan University gives pearl of wisdom to graduating seniors.

Newark NAACP Black History Month Commemoration

How are charter schools allowed to access public dollars, self-report, self -govern, and selectively recruit without oversight? Why does the state require little accountability of the use of public funds while allowing “public” charter schools to simultaneously solicit private dollars without disclosure?

All of our children deserve to be treated fairly and given equal opportunities. Former commissioner now Superintendent Cerf said in a recent press conference, “my main job is to provide equal access to high quality public education for all children.”

Sadly, under Chris Cerf and Governor Christie, Newark Public Schools has become a poster child of the devastating consequences of separate and unequal education masked as reform and choice.

Our children have become causalities of the war over educational dollars with the highest toll of destruction on the most vulnerable- our special needs children.

National Call for Moratorium on Charter Schools Expansion (continues) Now in 2016, charter schools can send their special needs students out of district to special schools at the expense of the Newark Public Schools while the school district is attempting to bring out of district students back into the district to save money.

At the same time, children in the NPS District with special needs are largely ignored and assigned to schools without the needed programs or personnel.

While the current superintendent has dismissed parent outcry as “anecdotal,” the chart below highlights the separate and unequal school system that has been established in Newark.

Source: NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs Children Receiving Free and Appropriate Education (Ages 16-21) Student Count by Disability as of Oct. 2014

NAACP and Delta Theta Sigma Partner for Voter Registration at Essex County College

Source: NJ Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs Children Receiving Free and Appropriate Education (Ages 16-21) Student Count by Disability as of Oct. 2014

70

Congratulations

Deborah Smith Gregory, Kathleen Merritt, Lavita Johnson, the Newark NAACP Branch

and all the 2016 Freedom Fund Gala Awards Honorees Journals • Business Cards • Brochures • Posters Swag • Promotional Products • Custom Tableclothes Postcards & Every Door Direct Mail

Michael McClain Shylar Anderson (Youth Sheila Middleton Shirley A. Johnson Nathaniel Gibbs Louise D. Greene Leo Ricketts Martha Washington Gloria Ann Johnson Barbara L. Dennis Linda M. Roberts

Diane Bronson Frances W. Harold Walter Morris Edward Haynes Juanita Hobbs Michael Fletcher Celeste Bateman Mangan Carrie Reed Sidney Jackson Bessie Walker Alton D. Williams

Dorothy Jenkins Jesse Henderson Barbara W. Small Alfreda Coachman-Daniels Burnell Lowery Alice Johnson Steven Matthews Dawn Koontz-Norris James Norris

The Hotel of Presidents

Salutes 102 Years of

Civil Rights Activism FIFTY PARK PLACE NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 07102 973-622-1000 • OFFICE 973-623-3300