NAACP® Merced County

63rd Annual Freedom Fund Banquet

Saturday, October 7, 2023

In Memory of Professor Charles J. Ogletree,

Jr.

We Are Naacp

We are the home of grassroots activism for civil rights and social justice. We advocate, agitate, and litigate for the civil rights due to Black America. In our cities, schools, companies, and courtrooms, we are the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells, Thurgood Marshall, and many other giants.

Our Vision

We envision an inclusive community rooted in liberation where all persons can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

Our Leaders

Our National Board and executive staff believe deeply in our mission and bring decades of experience in advocacy, organizing, and litigation to steer our efforts to secure civil rights and social justice.

We Make An Impact

In advocacy, we work to make sure Black voices are heard, demands are met, and Black excellence is amplified. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination.

Empowerment

As a 501c4 organization, we're organized for purpose, not profits. Our 501c3 partner organization, known as NAACP Empowerment Programs, accepts fully taxdeductible donations, as allowed by the IRS. The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation's first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

The California Hawaii State Conference NAACP is committed to equality and justice for all. Your oldest and most effective civil rights organization in the country will continue the fight for freedom until all people have realized the equal hand of justice.

As we embark on a new generation of leaders picking up the fight for civil rights, I am proud to be the one leading the California Hawaii State Conference of the NAACP. Now more than ever we have to be vigilant, and make sure we are at the forefront of the movement to build political power and fight for the wellbeing of the Black Community. We find ourselves directly in the middle of yet another civil rights movement, and now is not the time to rest.

I hope that you join all of us in the fight!

Rick L. Callender, ESQ. CA/HI NAACP President