2020 Syracuse Onondaga County Freedom Fund Dinner Journal and Momento of Our Inaugural Evening

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“If youcan't fly thenrun, if you can't run thenwalk, if youcan't walk thencrawl, but whatever youdoyouhaveto keepmoving forward.” -Martin Luther King Jr.

“We Canʼt Rest” in pursuing justice and defeating hate!

Linda Brown-Robinson President, Syracuse Onondaga NAACP October 24, 2020

Greetings Honored Guests, Members and Friends, As I close my tenure as President of the Syracuse Onondaga National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it is with a grateful heart that I welcome you to the 41st Virtual Annual Freedom Fund Dinner. The NAACP is a volunteer organization, and without hesitation, I want to thank the NAACP Board of Directors, Committee Chairs, Committee Members, sponsors and each of you for your tireless work and support to sustain our branch as a credible, relevant, and visible organization.

Without your help, our community would be less empowered and less aware of the community issues we confront on a daily basis. Together, we understand that “We Can’t Rest in Pursuing Justice and Defeating Hate”.

The pursuit of justice and the defeat of hate do not come easily. They require a laser focus, perseverance, and a commitment to relationship building. While we are a nonpartisan organization, we strive to embrace civil rights, human rights, inclusion, diversity, equity and access for all of our residents.

Year to year, these goals dominate the mission and work of the Syracuse Onondaga NAACP. Particularly during this Presidential election year, we urge everyone to exercise their right and obligation to VOTE. We continue to align our work and activities with the goals of the National NAACP. Prior to Covid 19, we were on the move. Partnering with churches and nonprofit organizations, we brought community forums to our residents on issues from voter education and registration, to health and economic stability.

Since Covid 19, we have taken to Zoom and other social media to keep our community engaged around issues that matter to most them.

Tonight, we congratulate the 2020 awardees and honor them for their contributions to our community as individuals and businesses. They set the bar as shining examples of who we recognize, in keeping with the mission and values of the Syracuse Onondaga NAACP.

Linda Brown Robinson President, Syracuse Onondaga NAACP

Syracuse/Onondaga County NAACP Officers

Linda Brown-Robinson - President Gwendolyn Muok - 1st Vice President Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter - 2nd Vice President Christopher Williams - Treasurer Sheri Owens - Secretary

Executive Committee Van B. Robinson

Virgil Hutchinson

Nodesia Hernandez

Mike Atkins

LaToya Jones

Pastor David Harris

Dennis Duval

Joanie Mahoney

Political Action

Criminal Justice Virgil Hutchinson, Chair

Religious Affairs

Nodesia Hernandez, Chair

Media/Communications

Pastor David Harris, Chair

Economic Development Joanie Mahoney, Chair Van Robinson, Co-Chair

Latoya Jones, Chair

Newsletter Committee Melissa Magee, Chair Ryan Franklin, Co-Chair

DINNER COMMITTEE Chairperson- Linda Brown-Robinson Co-chair - Osupa Davis

Committee

Donna Adams Gwendolyn Chaffin LaToya Jones Gwendolyn Muok Marlena Daher-Rahman Van Robinson Sheri Dozier Owens Honorary Co-Chairs Jodi DeAugustine - Disciplined Capital Management Joanie Mahoney - SUNY ESF

STATE OF NEW YORK OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER 110 STATE STREET ALBANY, NY 12236

October 24, 2020 Linda Brown-Robinson, President Syracuse Onondaga NAACP 224 Harrison Street Syracuse, NY 13202 Dear Friends: Greetings to all those gathered this evening for the 41st Anniversary Freedom Fund Dinner Gala hosted virtually by the Syracuse and Onondaga County NAACP. Since it was rechartered in 1979, the Syracuse-Onondaga branch has worked to ensure the educational, social, political and economic equality of all.

Congratulations are due to this year’s honorees. Their outstanding leadership, service and achievements are truly worthy of your recognition.

The Syracuse Onondaga Chapter has focused its energies on: addressing the national reckoning on racism; fighting for voting rights; dealing with the health and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; and youth engagement. The Chapter has stepped up its voter registration efforts, joined in on a COVID testing and mask give-away and continued its work against structural racism. The dedicated officers, board and members of the Syracuse Onondaga NAACP are honoring cherished traditions, and inspiring the community to address contemporary challenges.

Best wishes for a joyful celebration and continued success.

Sincerely,

Thomas P. DiNapoli State Comptroller

OFFICE OF THEMAYOR MAYOR BEN W ALSH

October 15, 2020 Dear NAACPFriends, In the midst of a global pandemic, this yearĘźs NAACP of Syracuse and Onondaga County Freedom Fund Dinner will be virtual yet, I have no doubt, still profoundly impactful. My thanksgoto all of the organizers,supporters andattendees.

I commendthe NAACPfor continuingthis greattradition of honoringlocal leadersandentities actively fostering change over the last 41years. Your commitmentto empowering people under any circumstances is exemplary.

Congratulations to each of the individuals and organizationsrecognizedthis year for their illustrious endeavors pursuing justice and freedom. Through education, activism, entrepreneurship, mentorship,communityoutreach andmore,the imprintyouall areleaving will help propelour city forward.

It is with pleasure and admiration that I note my amazingcolleague, Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens, is receiving the DonnaReese Trailblazer Memorial Award. I know Sharon is deeply honored to be a part of this first tribute to DonnaĘźs lifetime of achievements and contributions to the city she soloved.

We are working every day in city government to achieve our vision of makingSyracuse a growing city that embraces diversity and creates opportunity for all. I appreciate the partnership of the NAACP and look forward to working together to make Syracuse even stronger for the nextgeneration.

Sincerely,

Office of theMayor 233 E. Washington St. 201 City Hall Syracuse, N.Y. 13202

Ben Walsh Mayor

Office 315 448 8005 Fax 315 448 8067 www.syrgov.net

GROWTH. DIVERSITY.OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL.

THE HISTORY When the NAACP was founded in 1909, the crisis was unmistakable. Thirteen years earlier, the Supreme Court handed down Plessy v. Ferguson, legally enshrining "separate but equal". The poll tax, the literacy test, the grandfather clause - not to mention the burning cross - made sure the descendants of slaves "knew their place." In the summer of 1908, a race riot erupted in Springfield, Illinois, the hometown of Abraham Lincoln. Scores of Blacks were killed or wounded in the melee. The brutality of the event ignited a debate in the national press about the state of race relations. "Doesn't anyone care what happens to Blacks in America"? As it happens, a wealthy young white woman named Mary White Ovington was deeply concerned about the plight of Blacks in her native New York City. In 1909, Ovington met William English Walling, a liberal Southern journalist. The two agreed to convene a bi-racial conference to address "the Negro Question." It was out of this conference that the NAACP was born. Among the early leaders of the Association was Harvard intellectual W.E.B. DuBois, a prominent voice in an already established organization of influential Black thinkers known as the Niagara Movement. The initial 1905 Niagara Movement conference had to be moved to Niagara Falls Canada because housing for an integrated group could not be found on the U.S. side. DuBois was instrumental in bringing the Niagara Movement into the orbit of the NAACP, and the two organizations were effectively merged.

THE ASSOCIATION The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is the oldest, largest and most prominent civil rights organization in America. The NAACP is a not-for-profit and nonpartisan Association. The international headquarters of the Association is located in Baltimore, Maryland. There are seven regional field offices and some 2,200 local branch chapters with more than a half-million members.

SYRACUSE ONONDAGA COUNTY The branch is the vehicle through which most of the Association's efforts on the local level are carried out. The branch is composed of the general membership, which elects officers and executive committees every even numbered year. Your local branch is an all-volunteer organization with no paid staff nor government or private sector funding for programs and administration. In 2018, the Branch held its first State of the Community address, focusing on disparities in unemployment, the media, quality of life, homelessness, affordable housing poverty and graduation rates, to name just a few of the topics.

PROGRAMME

Introduction of Emcees

On the Move Entertainment

Welcome Emcees

Karin Franklin-King Honorable David A. Paterson

Invocation

Bishop Colette Matthews-Carter

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”

Sean McLeod, Award Winning Vocalist

Welcome Remarks

Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, President, NAACP NYS Conference Dr. Eliezer Hernández, President, Auburn/Cayuga County NAACP Jacqueline Nelson, President, Rome NAACP Linda Brown-Robinson, President Syracuse Onondaga County NAACP

Keynote Address

Karen Boykin-Towns, Vice Chair, National NAACP

Musical Performance

Jackiem Joyner, Acclaimed Saxophonist

Keynote Address

Honorable Frank D. Scott, Jr., Mayor, Little Rock, Arkansas

Musical Performance

“Doctuh” Mike Woods, Bassist, Writer, GRAMMY nominee

PROGRAMME

Presentation of Awards

Auburn/Cayuga County NAACP Rome NAACP Syracuse Onondaga NAACP

Musical Performance

“Come on Harriet” Sean McLeod, Award Winning Executive Producer Pastor Letta Palmer

Benediction Farewell Emcees

Karin Franklin-King Honorable David A. Paterson

Optional Menu Provided by Laci’s Tapas Bar Bacon Wrap Dates Apple Brie Flatbread Luscious Pig Flat Chicken Bacon Flatbread Buff Chicken Egg Rolls Shrimp & Grits Edamame Potstickers

The Black National Anthem: "Lift EveryVoice and Sing" Composed by James Weldon Johnson.Originally written (I890) by Johnson for a presentationin celebrationof the birthday of AbrahamLincoln. This song was first publicly performed in Jacksonville,Florida.

Lift ev'ry voice and sing 'Til earth and heaven ring Ring with the harmonies of Liberty Let our rejoicing rise High as the list'ning skies Let it resound loud as the rolling sea Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us Facing the rising sun of our new day begun Let us march on 'til victory is won Stony the road we trod Bitter the chastening rod Felt in the days when hope unborn had died Yet with a steady beat Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered Out from the gloomy past 'Til now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast God of our weary years God of our silent tears Thou who has brought us thus far on the way Thou who has by Thy might Led us into the light Keep us forever in the path, we pray Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee Shadowed beneath Thy hand May we forever stand True to our God True to our native land

Keynote Speakers Karen Boykin-Towns Vice Chairman of the National Board of the NAACP Karen Boykin-Towns is President and CEO of Encore Strategies, LLC. She was recently re-elected Vice Chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Board of Directors, the oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization in the nation established in 1909. Ms. Boykin-Towns' career at Pfizer spanned 22 years where she advanced quickly into executive management roles. She was recruited as a Senior Legislative Analyst based on her reputation for success in state government and held key leadership roles in public affairs, government relations, global policy, and human resources. Based on her positive impact driving change across the organization, in 2008 she was selected

by Pfizer's CEO to serve as its first Chief Diversity Officer. Embracing her passion for policy and politics, Karen's early career involved serving as Legislative Director then Chief of Staff to New York State Senator David Paterson, who later became the 55th Governor of New York. Karen holds an MBA degree from the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College of the City University of New York (CUNY), as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of Mount Saint Vincent.

A mother of two girls, Karen is married to former State Assemblyman Darryl C. Towns and lives in Brooklyn, NY.

Mayor Frank D. Scott Jr. First Black Mayor of Little Rock, Ark

Little Rock voters made history on Dec. 4, 2018 when they selected Frank Scott Jr. as the City’s 73rd mayor and first elected Black chief executive. Since that day, Mayor Scott has worked to unite our diverse neighborhoods into one City and one people, cooperating to expand the city’s economy and improve our quality of life. As an associate pastor, youth mentor, and professional, Frank lives out the values he learned growing up in Southwest Little Rock, the same area where he lives, today. He gives back to the City that invested in him and reminds young people regularly that values are the foundation of a purpose-filled life. Mayor Scott believes that “When we come together, we are more than just a series of neighborhoods and zip codes. We are the people of Little Rock, and we can change course for a better direction for our city if we have the will to do it.”

EMCEES Honorable David Paterson Former Governor of New York and Author David Alexander Paterson became the 55th Governor of the State of New York on March 17, 2008. In his first address as Governor, he spoke about the challenges facing New York and his plans to build a better and brighter future for all citizens. He was ahead of the national curve in predicting and acting on the state's fiscal downturn. David embodies a rare combination of skills, including a unique understanding of marketplace drivers and surrounding events. He earned his B.A in History from Columbia University and his J.D. from Hofstra Law School. Prior to becoming New York State's 55th governor in March 2008, David began his political career when he was elected to represent Harlem in 1985 at the age of 31, making him the third youngest state senator in New York's history. In 2002, he was elected as Minority Leader of the New York State Senate, becoming the first African-American and blind legislative leader in the state's history. Among his many other accomplishments and distinctions, he was honored to address the 2004 Democratic National Convention.

Karen Franklin-King Consultant, Journalist and Performer Karin Franklin-King is a native of Brooklyn, New York. When she first arrived in Syracuse NY, she attended Onondaga Community College. Karin went on and attended the State University of New York College at Oswego and Cornell University, where she obtained a Master of Fine Arts. Her work in Syracuse is extensive. She has been and continues to be a television and radio broadcaster. Karin is also a stage performer, motivational speaker, community volunteer and a public relations consultant.

She is often called upon to emcee or serve as host for special community functions, as well as appear as a guest speaker for varied audiences on a multitude of topics. She states that her "greatest reward is the opportunity to encourage others to do great things‌ and to always give something back!"

Special Guest NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE NAACP NEW YORK STATE CONFERENCE

DR. HAZEL N. DUKES

Dr. Hazel N. Dukes is President of the NAACP New York State Conference and a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors, a member of the NAACP Executive Committee and well as an active member of various NAACP board sub-committees. Dr. Dukes is a woman of great strength and courage. Her dedication to human rights and equality is exemplified by her role linking business, government and social causes. Dr. Dukes is an active and dynamic leader who is known for her unselfish and devoted track record for improving the quality of life in New York State.

A harsh system of civil and human injustice persists; intimidation, violence, and the recent rash of “nooses,” speak to the widespread de facto absence of a civil and human rights agenda in America says Dukes, and the fires of frustration continue to burn.

Dr. Dukes is President of the Hazel N. Dukes & Associates Consultant Firm, specializing in the areas of public policy, health and diversity.

Dr. Dukes is a member of the Assembly of Prayer Baptist Church where she served as Executive Assistant to the Pastor, is a member of the Board of Trustees and teaches the Adult Sunday School.

Dr. Dukes received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Adelphi University, Garden City, New York and completed post-graduate work at Queens College. In 1990 she was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the City University of New York Law School at Queens College and in 2009 was conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York. In 2012 she was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem New York. Dr. Dukes has many organizational affiliations; she is former President of the Metro-Manhattan Links Chapter, in 2010 was appointed the National Links NGO Representative and is a former trustee of the State University of New York and Stillman College. Dr. Dukes is a member of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., and National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, INC. Dr. Dukes is the recipient of numerous awards for her outstanding leadership activities, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, YWCA City of New York John La Farge Memorial Award for Interracial Justice, Guy R. Brewer Humanitarian Award, and the 2007 The Network Journal’s 25 Most Influential Black Women in Business Award, member Ford Motor Company Funds Committee of Honor for Freedom’s Sisters, was honored and received a Proclamation at the New York City Council’s Third Annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Awards ceremony at City Hall in New York. Dukes is an active member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Northern Manhattan Alumnae Chapter and has been selected to receive the sorority’s Althea T.L. Simmons Social Action Award in August 2010. Dr. Dukes was Incorporated in 2007 as a Pi Eta Kappa Fellow and her biography has been selected for publication in many journals and directories including: Fisk University Library, Minority Women Contribution, American Biographical Institute Personalities of Northeast, Who’s Who Among American Women and Who’s Who Among Black Women.

“. . . if I can help somebody as I pass along; then my living shall not have been in vain.”

AWARD CRITERIA The “Harriet Tubman Freedom Fund” Award is given to an individual whose efforts have demonstrated, produced or contributed towards making and eradicating racial injustice while promoting social equity and beyond.

Demonstrating leadership, this individual helped advance and improve the community at large.

The “Madame C. J. Walker Small Business” Award is given annually to a small business whose work has proven a dedication to working with and improving minority communities. Nominee’s work should embody NAACP’s mission - ensuring the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and eliminating race-based discrimination.

The “Earl G. Graves, Sr. Corporate” Award is given annually to a business whose contributions demonstrate an allegiance with the African American community through work dedicated to promotion of equal rights, opportunities, partnerships, and/or financial contributions.

The “A. Phillip Randolph CNY Union” Award is given annually to either an individual employed by a union or the union as the organization itself whose work helps meet humanitarian efforts in the community through volunteerism and civic service. This individual or organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the community through political, educational, social or economic initiatives.

The "Oprah Winfrey Philanthropy" Award is given annually to an individual, couple, or organization whose philanthropic deeds or contributions have made an impact in the greater community with a desire to improve the material, social, and spiritual welfare of humanity, especially through charitable activities.

The "Mary McLeod Bethune Educator" Award is given annually to an individual award recognizes and American educator, stateswoman, philanthropist and humanitarian. She started a private school for African American girls in Daytona Beach, Florida which developed into a college, Bethune-Cookman The "Maye, McKinney and Melchor Freedom and Justice" Award is given annually to an organization, individual or individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership in enhancing legal work within the community that helps advance social justice and civil rights efforts on behalf of its residents.

"William May, Langston Mc Kinney and Henry Melchor were the brave and accomplished attorney's who founded the first African American law firm in Syracuse, NY which opened the doors of employment for minority lawyers" The "Muhammad Ali Iconic Sports" Award The award is given to and individual who optimizes philanthropy within the sporting community. The award celebrates and supports ideals of the most significant sports figures of the 20th century The Benjamin Lawson Hooks Diversity and Inclusion Award The Benjamin L. Hooks awards companies for their efforts in creating jobs at the grass roots level by implementing policies and programs which promote equal opportunity 2020 Donna Reese Memorial Award Is awarded to an individual who epitomizes a committed community spirit to the goals and ideals that bring about political or social change to our fallen past President Syracuse Onondaga NAACP The “Ruby Bridges Youth Courage and Activist” Award is given annually to an individual under 21 years of age or an organization that demonstrates outstanding leadership in the community in work that helps advance social justice and civil rights efforts.

HARRIET TUBMAN FREEDOM FUND AWARD Jennifer Sanders Edward R. Murrow award winning, Emmy-nominated global journalist

She is currently a news anchor and reporter at KXAN, the NBC affiliate in Austin, Texas. Through her work as a journalist and documentary filmmaker, she has produced award-winning content that has changed policies, community narratives and sparked nationwide conversations. Her most recent documentary was “Hidden History: The End of Syracuse’s 15th Ward”, focused on a small neighborhood during Syracuse’s 1950s that was decimated by the construction of Interstate 81 under the Federal Highway Act, urban renewal and redlining. The documentary explores the emotional stories of the families affected in the 1950s and the threat of history repeating itself during planned reconstruction in 2025. The 15th Ward documentary has been the focus of several forums, town halls and school lessons enlightening viewers on a critical piece of Central New York history. documentary won the prestigious regional Edward R. Murrow award.

The

She is the founder of

NexJeneration, Inc., a platform that provides students hands-on education, exposure and financial assistance to become well-trained journalists in the evolving world of television and digital news. She has served on numerous boards focused on domestic violence prevention and funding non-profit initiatives that improve marginalized communities. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as well as The Links, Inc. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Texas Lutheran University and her master’s degree from the University of North Texas.

EARL G. GRAVES, SR. CORPORATE AWARD

Dunk & Bright Furniture Joe Bright, CEO

We've Been on the Southside of Syracuse Since 1927. Dunk & Bright Furniture is the largest furniture mattress and carpet showroom in New York State, located in Syracuse, NY. We feature IDS and ASID certified interior design staff and have extensive custom order furniture capabilities. Most of our furniture customers are located in Central NY and the Greater Syracuse area however we can deliver to Utica, Rochester, Watertown, Binghamton and Ithaca. We have stayed in business in the same location on the Southside of Syracuse, NY since we first opened. Annually, Dunk and Bright hosts on it's property a free jazz concert as part of the Jazz in the City series. The concert is a hit...last year we had over 1,000 attendees! Dunk and Bright supports dozens of other non profits annually with donations of furniture, bedding and gift certificates. Since 1992 Dunk and Bright has been in rapid physical expansion. Dunk and Bright has bought over 20 vacant, tax delinquent properties in the Southside neighborhood to expand its physical footprint and build landscaped welcome signs. This has helped Brighton Corners remain a vibrant commercial corridor. In 2006, the South Side Innovation Center was born. The SSIC, which is sponsored by Syracuse University, is located in the Dunk & Bright building across the parking lot from the main store. It is supporting an entrepreneurial renaissance in a neighborhood with untapped potential. It holds more than 13,000 square feet of usable space for shared business services, the WISE Center, and a large classroom for training and teaching. In January of this year, Dunk and Bright transferred ownership to it's 4th generation owner, Joe Bright. Jim Bright, Joe's father, retired after owning the business for 27 years. Joe would like to thank the NAACP for this generous award, congratulate the other award winners and thank his father and grandfather for building a business that has been fortunate to be successful in the Syracuse community for over 90 years.

MADAM C. J. WALKER SMALL BUSINESS AWARD MeʼShae BrooksRolling Franchise Owner & Operator at EventPrep. Inc.

Me’Shae Brooks-Rolling is a serial entrepreneur. Me’Shae made history in 2018 when she became the first Franchise Owner/Operator of EventPrep, Inc., in New York State and the northeastern territory.

She was most recently appointed Executive Director of the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance, and is the Executive Producer of the 2021 Financial Empowerment Summit. Me’Shae has been in the Special Events, Conferencing and Hospitality industry for 25 years. Prior to becoming a business owner, Me’Shae was the Director of Special Events & Conferences at the Institute for Veterans & Military Families at Syracuse University. Additionally, she is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance, and is MWBE-certified municipally, nationally, and with New York state. Me’Shae serves on the board of directors of the following organizations: CenterState CEO, American Heart Association’s Circle of Red/Go Red for Women, WISE Women’s Business Center, Human Services Leadership Council, and the Onondaga County CA$H Coalition. Me’Shae enjoys volunteering and contributing philanthropically to the Syracuse community. She is an alumna of The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University (M.P.A. 1990), and has been married to Dr. James Haywood Rolling, Jr. for 28 years.

MARY McLEOD BETHUNE EDUCATOR Eva Williams Principal, Van Duyn Elementary School

Serving as an Educator for Over Thirty Years, Eva's Belief in Changing the Lives of Children Through Education Deepens Every Day. for the Past Seven Years, Eva Has Been the Principal of Van Duyn Elementary School in the Syracuse City School District. Her Prior Experience Includes Serving as Principal of Frazer Prek-8 School, High School Guidance Counselor for Ten Years (Corcoran High School, Jamesville Dewitt High School and Henninger High School) and Nearly Fifteen Years as a College Admissions Advisor for the State University of New York (Suny Esf and Cortland). These Experiences Have Provided Eva With a Breadth of Experience Across All Academic Arenas Thus Giving Her a Solid Foundation to Nurture, Teach and Lead Her Staff, Parents and Students for Success.

- Eva Earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in African/ African American Studies and Psychology From Suny Binghamton, a Master of Science Degree in School Counseling From Syracuse University; and as a Wallace Foundation Scholar, Eva Achieved Post Graduate Certification in Educational Leadership From Suny Oswego. the First Twelve Years of Eva's Education Shaped Her Educational Philosophy; She Attended School in Two Countries. Her Education Has Expanded Beyond the Curriculum to Include an Understanding of the Deep Need for Education to Be a Catalyst for Changing Lives. the Words of Nelson Mandela Frame Eva's Beliefs – …Education Is the Most Powerful Weapon Which You Can Use to Change the World". Eva Has Been Honored Numerous Times for Unselfish Dedication to the Needs of Students, Staff and Families in the Communities in Which She Worked and Served. the Honor That She Cherishes Most Is the Successes of Students in Who She Encountered and Made an Impact. Eva Is a Woman of a Certain Age That Believes That … Those Who Are Crazy Enough to Think They Can Change the World… Usually Do… She Believes Most… That Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams Deserve the Opportunity, Resources and Education to Achieve Those Dreams. as a Servant Leader, Eva Is Driven to Change Lives. She Has Always Cherished the Words of Mary McLeod Bethune … "Believe in Yourself, Learn and Never Stop Wanting to Build a Better World. Eva Understands That a Career Alone Does Not Fulfill a Life. Her Husband - Lawrence, Three Daughters – Lauren, Adjuah and Ayanna, Son in Love – Arnold Malloy and Two Granddaughters – Olivia and Naomi Make Life Complete. Eva States That She Is "Thankful for a Wonderful Family and Friends That Inspire Her to Play and Love as Hard as She Works."

A. PHILIP RANDOLPH CNY UNION AWARD King Davis

CSEA Local 1000

King Solomon Davis, Jr is a native of Syracuse, New York. After being laid off from an insurance company, at his mother’s suggestion, he took a civil service exam. Davis was hired as the first Black person to work at the NYS Workers Compensation Board and after receiving help from the CSEA, King became a union activist. He took every available training and workshop to best represent his union brothers and sisters in every contract that CSEA represented. He was appointed to a local 2nd VP position by his state local and later ran unopposed for the 1st VP position. After serving 4 years, he ran unopposed for the presidents’ position. He held that office for 2 election periods until his retirement, always running unopposed. King is currently revitalizing the Syracuse Chapter of CBTU as its temporary president. Their new name will be the Central New York Chapter of Coalition of Black Trade Unionists. While employed King also served as president of the Region 5 Human Rights Committee, Chair of Local 013 Grievance Committee and Health & Safety Committee. He was appointed Chair of the CSEA statewide Minority’s Issues Committee by the President of CSEA. As a member of CSEA and CBTU "I have been able to travel throughout this country meeting with union members, Human Rights Leaders and government officials. These doors were opened to me because of my union affiliation and committee work. My main concentration has been to address minority issues and issues affecting poor neighborhoods. I believe CBTU has a lot to offer to community’s in the area that that the chapter represents. By working with all the unions and the community we can help people achieve their goals and live a better life."

A. PHILIP RANDOLPH CNY UNION AWARD

Officer Brandon Hanks Police Benevolent Association

Brandon Joseph Hanks was born on the south side of Syracuse, NY. He grew up attending programs at the Hamilton St. Boys and GirlsClub and Southwest Community Center. Brandon graduated from Henninger high school where he was a three sport athlete. He went on to play college basketball for SUNY Morrisville where he graduated with an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts and a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. Most recently, Brandon became Assistant Basketball Coach at the CiceroNorth Syracuse School boys varsity basketball team. Hanks played high school basketball at Henninger before a college career at SUNY Morrisville. He was sworn in as a Syracuse Police Officer in 2016.

Last summer, he spread the word around the City of Syracuse as a sign of trust between police and the community, where he played many local kids one-on-one. If he won, they had to do push-ups, if they beat him (which almost never happened) he would buy them a new pair of basketball sneakers.

Oprah Winfrey Philanthropy Award

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Chi Pi Chapter

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded at Howard University, Washington, D.C., on Friday evening, November 17, 1911, in the office of Ernest E. Just, Professor of Biology. The organizers were three students in the College of Liberal Arts: Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper, and Frank Coleman.

At the first meeting, the name of the Fraternity was formed for the initials of the Greek phrase meaning, “Friendship is Essential to the Soul.” This phrase was also selected as the Fraternity’s motto. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift were adopted as cardinal principles, and the design for the pin and emblem were decided upon. The weeks that followed “were days and nights of toil” for the new organization. The constitution had been proposed and adopted by December 8, 1911. It provided that the “Fraternity was to be composed of men of like attainment and of the same ideals of fellowship, scholarship, and manhood,” and contained provisions for internal organization, classes and qualifications of members, the emblem, and motto. Alpha Chapter was organized at Howard University on December 15, 1911. After several years of struggle Beta Chapter was established at Lincoln University, Oxford, Pennsylvania on February 6, 1914 with the induction of nineteen charter members. The Fraternity has expanded over the years to more than 700 chapters worldwide and upwards of 100, 000 members. The Charter of Chi Pi Chapter, Omega psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was officially present at a warm and meaningful ceremony at the Everson Museum in Syracuse, New York on the evening of January 31, 1976. Chi Pi chapter was founded by brothers: Benjamin Jeffers, Roosevelt Wright, James Cannon, Charles Grace, John Ricks, Archie Gilchrist, Dennis Dowdell, James Campbell, Leon Mullen, Curley Fountainbery, William Thompson, Stephen Moses, William Rowland, James May, and Ceasar Marshal. On July 24, 1976, Chi Pi Chapter inducted its first line of pledges into the Brotherhood of Omega: Brothers Eudell, Ford, Frazier, Hicks, Young and Zanders.

MUHAMMAD ALI ENTREPRENEUR & SPORTS AWARD Marc Jones President and CEO, Dreissig Apparel, Inc.

Mr. Jones is the visionary and principal behind Dreissig Apparel Inc. and Fan Hands LLC. He was born and raised in Syracuse New York. Marc graduated from Christian Brothers Academy as an All-State and All-Northeast U.S. running back his senior year. Marc went on to play football at the University of Tennessee. In 1991 Marc graduated with a degree in Psychology. He went on to play professionally in the German Football League (G.F.L). He founded Dreissig Athletic in 1999 to design and manufacturer his own brand of athletic apparel. In 2007, Marc invented a novelty product called Fan Hands. Fan Hands was invented to enhance the sound of the clap for sports fans when they attend sporting events. With his businesses and success he remains active in the community and believes in giving back. He is Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of the Willow Street Foundation. Marc Jones has proven time and again that he is a self-motivated, goal oriented leader. Marc is married to wife Carol and has one son Julian and one daughter Olivia.

MAYE, McKINNEY & MELCHOR FREEDOM AND JUSTICE AWARD Honorable Judge Vanessa Bogan

Judge Bogan is currently the Presiding Justice of the Adolescent Diversion Part, an Acting Family Court Judge and hears Criminal and Civil Cases. She was appointed by Hon. James Tormey as a member of the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission on promoting racial and ethnic fairness in the courts. Judge Bogan, who is originally from Brooklyn, NY, is a veteran of the United StatesAir Force. She graduated from Columbia College, Columbia Missouri with a Bachelors ofArts in 1989 and from City University School of Law at Queens College earning a Juris Doctorate in 1993. She was admitted to the bar in 1994. She is married to Harold Bogan, who retired from the construction industryandwasmemberofLaborer’sLocal633.TheyhavetwoadultchildrenJoelandAbner,whohaveearnedand are in the process of earning Master’s degrees, respectively. Her professional experience includes serving as trial and appellant counsel to indigent defendants while working at the Frank H. Hiscock Legal Aid Society. She prosecuted juvenile delinquents and child abuse and neglect cases while with the Onondaga County Law Department. Judge BoganalsoworkedasCorporateCounseltoSyracuseCommunityHealthCenteranditsaffiliatecorporations. Judge BogancurrentlysitsontheBoardofDirectorsoftheOnondagaCountyBarAssociation’sAssignedCounselProgram, The Volunteer Lawyers Project, the DowntownYMCAand the Community FolkArt Center. She currently serves as thePresidentoftheWilliamH.JohnsonBarAssociation,abarassociationforpeopleofcolorandtheirallies. Whenshe is not on the bench, or volunteering she enjoys playing golf and playing and writing music. She has played the piano sinceshewasnineteenyearsold,andiscurrentlycomposingaoneactmusical.

The Ruby Bridges Youth Courage and Activist Award On Point for College Sam Rowser Executive Director

In photo, left to right, Tara Rowser, Sam Rowser and Aja Everson, LeMoyne College 2012

On Point for College, a non-profit program that has helped over 7,600 inner-city youth from Syracuse, Utica, and NYC to enroll in and succeed in college. The students are usually the first person in their family to go to college.

These young adults have had the desire to go to college, but felt that the opportunity was out of their reach for financialreasons.SambecameExecutiveDirectorofOnPointinSeptember2016. HebeganthisjourneyatOnPoint for College as ProgramAssociate – the first employee Founder Ginny Donohue was able to hire. He embodies the mission of On Point for College: We develop the programs and cultivate the relationships to change the lives of traditionalandnon-traditional,17-29yearoldstudentsbybreakingdownbarriersthroughaccesstotraining,college andcareerforsuccessinlife. SamRowserwasoneofthefewinvitedtoshakePresidentBarackObama'shandathis 2013talkaboutcollegeaffordabilityatSyracuse'sHenningerHighSchool. ToSam,thehandshakewastheultimate recognitionfortheworkhehasdonetogetthousandsintocollege.Otherhonorsinclude:MohawkValleyFrontiers - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award for Outstanding Community Service – 2017, Cuse Connection Outstanding Community Service award – 2016, NAACP Community Service Award –2014, Alliance Network Outstanding Commitment to Education – 2013, The Dr. David B. Swedlow Memorial College Access Staff Member Award of Excellence through National College Access Network (NCAN)-2011, Southside Christmas Tree Lighting Community Service Award 2011, Rotary Club - Ken Bodley Exemplary Services in the Syracuse Community Award 2009-10 and Greater SyracuseYouthAllianceYouth EngagementAward – 2010, Interfaith Works Coalition –“RacialJusticeAward”–2008,OnondagaCountyDepartmentofAgingandYouth“ProfessionalYouthWorkerof the Year 2007.” Sam is a veteran who has served with the Marine Corp, and a remarkable husband and amazing fatherofseven.SamuelRowser,alifelongresidentofSyracuse,NYhasspentnearly30yearsbeingatrustedmentor to first-generation college students, helping them to start college, earn degrees and gain employment; supporting themeverystepofthejourney.

The Benjamin Lawson Hooks Diversity and Inclusion Award Hueber-Breuer Construction Andy Breuer President

Hueber-Breuer Construction Co., Inc. was founded in 1872 and is currently managed by the fifth and sixth generations.

Caring,Community,Quality,Innovation,Integrity,andLegacyareallwordsthatdefineourcompanyidentity.Ourteamis committed to creating a better community, as well as better buildings. Some of Hueber-Breuer’s recent notable projects in CentralNewYorkincludetheDineenCollegeofLaw,theFairgroundsExpositionCenter,andtheNorthwestYMCA. Our current progress at Nottingham High School, Clary – ELMS Elementary, and NBT Stadium reflects our renewed commitment to cultivating and empowering the MWBE workforce, as well as a growing coalition of capable Veteran enterprises. Hueber-Breuer’s commitment to hiring, mentoring, and teaming with these contractors is an extension of our company culture of community service and engagement. Hueber-Breuer recognizes that more needs to be done for our workforcetoaccuratelyreflectthediversityofourcommunity;weseektofosteragreatercultureoflearningabouttheissues ofinclusionandmulticulturalism,andcommendtheNAACPfortheircontinuedpursuitoftheseideals.

The Donna Reese Trailblazer Memorial Award

Sharon Owens, Deputy Mayor, City of Syracuse

Sharon Owens has worked for more than 30 years in the fields of housing, community development, human services, and government.As Deputy Mayor, Owens serves as chief of staff to the Mayor and oversees city services that address quality of life in our community, including the Neighborhood and Business Development, Police and Fire Departments. Prior to this appointment, Owens served as the third CEO of Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility, Inc., where she secured expanded services that infused human service provision with community revitalization initiatives to further serve an increasingly needing community. Owens also has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector. She served as CEO of Syracuse Community Connections (Southwest Community Center), DeputyDirectorofhousingforHomeHeadQuarters,Inc.andJubileeHomesofSyracuse. Herinvolvementreaches totheboardroomaswell.SheservesasPresidentoftheBoardofBlueprint15,wasafoundationalboardexecutiveof the Greater Syracuse HOPE Initiative, the Consensus Commission on Local Government Modernization, and the I-81 Community Stakeholder Committee. Catholic Charities of Onondaga County announced Owens as the 2020 Humanitarian Service Award recipient, honoring her commitment to servanthood for the betterment of the community. In 2015 Owens received “The Kathy� Award from the Gifford Foundation, which recognized her commitment to establishing sound community-impacting advocacy for community residents and their families.

She is a graduate of Syracuse University. The role she is most proud of is wife of 30 years to Shaun and mother to SimoneandIsaac.

The Syracuse Onondaga NAACP President’s Award

Shirley Rowser NAACP Volunteer Zeta Phi Beta Sorority

Honorable Pamela Hunter NYS Assembly, 128th Assembly District Lambda Kappa Mu Sorority

Michele Galvin-Jones Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Author Beyond the Underground Aunt Harriet, Moses of her People

Tonight'sEntertainment Provided by:

Jackiem Joyner

Saxophonist, Composer, and Arranger Jackiem Joyner Plays Contemporary Jazz Influenced by His Upbringing in the Gospel Church and His Love of Contemporary R&b. Initially Emerging as a Sideman in the Early 2000s, Joyner Has Earned Fans and Chart Success With His Own Sophisticated Albums, Including 2007's Babysoul, 2012's Church Boy, and 2017's Main Street Beat. Born in 1980 in Norfolk, Virginia, Joyner Was First Introduced to Music by His Bassist Father and Later Played Drums Backing the Gospel Choir in His Church. in His Teens, Joyner Relocated With His Family to Syracuse, New York, Where He Studied Saxophone and Played in a Band. While in High School, Joyner Competed in the NAACP's AfroAcademic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (Or Act-So), Taking Top Honors Three Years in a Row in the Categories of Instrumental Contemporary, Composition, and Classical Music. After Graduating High School, He Moved Back to Virginia, Where He Accepted the Position of Music Director for World Harvest Outreach Ministries in Newport News Under the Direction of Bishop Michael Patterson.

Doctuh" Michael Woods

“Doctuh” Michael Woods

is a bassist, educator, composer, lecturer and clinician. He is the recipient of numerous prestigious grants and awards for performance, education, composition, scholarship and leadership. Doc has written more than 700 compositions in styles including choral, orchestral and chamber, jazz combo and big-band. His works have been performed by the Albany Symphony, Cleveland Chamber Ensemble, Erie Philharmonic Orchestra, Midland Symphony Orchestra, Utica Symphony, Tulsa Philharmonic Orchestra, Little Rock Symphony, Anderson Symphony, North Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Lafayette Symphony, Central New York Jazz Orchestra, Tulsa Philharmonic, Pro Musica Orchestra, Salt City Jazz Collective and the Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble. "Doc" Woods Is the Leonard C. Ferguson Professor of Music at Hamilton College. Woods Has Taught at the University Level Since 1980, and Joined Hamilton College in 1993. He Is the Musical Director and Bassist for the Zoe' Jazz Band and the Omniverse Jazz Ensemble.

Sean McLeod

Sean McLeod

is an Executive Producer, Award Winning Businessman, and American Choreographer whose work spans more than 30 years and 3 continents including New York City, across the US, and internationally to the West Indies, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa. Sean is founder of Reaching for Higher Ground Consulting – a Communication, Performance, and Development Company, President of Kaleidoscope Dance Theatre, and is Executive Producer of the Harriet Tubman Freedom Music Festival, New York Dance Festival and the Global Dance Initiative. He has worked with several Senators and Congressmen and is a Conference Designer, Fortune 500 Executive Life Coach, Mediation Expert, and Motivational Speaker that uses the arts to teach Personality Development and Emotional Development for Corporations and Executives. He teaches Life Skills to Teens, Parental communication skills to adults, and does Family Development intervention for public schools and universities.

OUR SPONSORS

SPECIAL THANKS

Pastabilities SyracuseUniversityBookStore FringedBenefits

SaltCityCoffee

FingerLakesCoffee DinosaurBar-b-que

to the Syracuse/Onondaga County Chapter of the NAACP on its 41st Anniversary Freedom Fund Gala and to the 2020 Freedom Fund Award Honorees!

You Chapter's leadership has significantly benefited equal access and the quality of life in our community.

We are all in this together! mcmahonforonondagacounty.com Not paid at taxpayer expense

CenterState CEO Congratulates Members & Partners 2020 Freedom Fund Honorees MeʼShae Brooks-Rolling Upstate Minority EconomicAlliance Marc Jones DreissigApparel Inc. Hueber-Breuer Construction On Point For College Sharon Owens DeputyMayor, City of Syracuse Presidentʼs Award Honorees Michele Jones Galvin, Hon. Pamela J. Hunter, & Shirley Rowser and all of thisyearʼs award recipients

Thankyou NAACP Syracuse/Onondaga County for your commitment to making an impact in our community.

NAACP Central New York

Thank You for 145 Years of Service to Our Community

& Congratulations to the 2020 Freedom Fund Honorees

WWW.DEJOSEPHFORJUDGE.COM Paid for by DeJoseph for Family Court

SyracuseUniversity proudlysupportsthe

NAACP ofSyracuseand Central NewYork

syracuse.edu

Congratulations to the 2020 Freedom Fund Honorees and to the NAACP for all your good work!

State Senator Rachel May may@nysenate.gov

Congratulations to the individuals being honored

by Freedom Fund for their achievements in pursuing justice and defeating hate.

“Central New Yorkersdeserve a representative who will show up, listen, and stand up forthem.”

IN CONGRESS, DANAWILL REPRESENT THE PEOPLE BY Fighting for affordable healthcare for all Getting big money out of politics Working for good jobs, better wages & fair taxes Implementing common sense gun safety

TO LEARN MORE, PLEASE VISIT (315)308-0164

PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF DANA BALTER

! a n a D or f e t Vo

NOVEMBER 3RD, 2020

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TheCentral New York Community Foundation is a proud supporter of the

NAACP Thankyou for your passion and dedication to improving our community and thelives of itsresidents.

315.422.9538 | CNYCF. ORG

Onondaga County Early Voting Hours Saturday, October 24, 2020: 10AM – 3PM Sunday, October 25, 2020: 10AM – 3PM Monday, October 26, 2020: 10AM – 6PM Tuesday, October 27, 2020: 12PM – 8PM Wednesday, October 28, 2020: 12PM – 8PM Thursday, October 29, 2020: 10AM – 6PM Friday, October 30, 2020: 10AM – 6PM Saturday, October 31, 2020: 10AM – 3PM Sunday, November 1, 2020: 10AM – 3PM CAMILLUS FIRE STATION (Rear Entrance) 5801 Newport Rd, Camillus NY 13031 CLAY TOWN HALL COURTROOM (Rear Entrance) 4401 Route 31, Clay NY 13041 DEWITT TOWN HALL COURTROOM 5400 Butternut Drive, E. Syracuse NY 13057 LAFAYETTE FIRE STATION #1 (Rear Entrance) 2444 Route 11 South, LaFayette NY 13084 ARMOND MAGNARELLI COMMUNITY CENTER AT MCCHESNEY PARK 2300 Grant Blvd, Syracuse NY 13208 SYRACUSE COMMUNITY CONNECTION (SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY CENTER) 401-425 South Ave, Syracuse NY 13204

Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter 711 E. Genesee Street, 2nd Floor Syracuse, NY 13210 315-449-9536 hunter@nyassembly.gov

Pursuing JUSTICE...

Defeating HATE

CONGRATULATIONS ON 41 YEARS OF GROWTH, DEVELOPMENT, OPPORTUNITY AND ADVANCEMENT FROM ALL OF US AT KOESTER ASSOCIATES

www.koesterassociates.com

Christian Brothers Academy congratulates Marc Jones ʻ86 Muhammed Ali Entrepreneurand Sports Award

Hueber‐Breuer Construction Jim ʻ68, Andy, and Charlie ʻ01Breuer Benjamin Lawson Hooks Diversity and Inclusion Award

All the recipientsof the 2020CNY NAACP Virtual FreedomFund Awards

cbasyracuse.org ~315.446.5960~FB: CBA Syracuse

Congratulationsto tonightĘźs honorees.

Thankyoutothe Syracuseand OnondagaNAACP for yourcontinued service to our community.

129th AssemblyDistrict 333 E.W ashingtonSt. Room 840,Syracuse,13202 (315)428-9651 Magnarw@nyassembly.gov