79th Annual Convention

Schedule at a glance

Adult Schedule

10:00 am - 11:00 am Natchez Grand Hotel

Branch Presidents Brunch

Ericka Cain Ericka Cain
11:30 am - 12:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Opening Program

12:00 pm - 1:45 pm Natchez Convention Center

Religious Affairs Luncheon

This luncheon will set the tone for the convention, with an inspiring program led by Pastor Raymunda Barnes, Chair of the MS State NAACP Religious Affairs Committee, and a powerful keynote address by Dr. Rev. C.J. Rhodes from Mt. Helm Baptist Church.

Rev. Dr. C.J. Rhodes Rev. Dr. C.J. Rhodes
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Natchez Convention Center

Political Action Workshop

Carroll Rhodes, Esq. Carroll Rhodes, Esq.
Jared Turner Jared Turner
Charles Taylor Charles Taylor
Marcus Williams Marcus Williams
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Natchez Convention Center

Legal Redress Updates

Todd W. Gee Todd W. Gee
5:30 pm - 6:15 pm Pilgrim Baptist Church

Delegate's Reception

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Pilgrim Baptist Church

Memorial & Community Mass Meeting

Pastor Melvin White Pastor Melvin White
9:00 pm - 11:00 pm Natchez Grand Hotel

Hospitality Suite

7:00 am - 7:45 am Natchez Convention Center

Yoga Start-Up

8:00 am - 9:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Opening Planery: Business Session

9:10 am - 10:20 am Natchez Convention Center

Health Workshop

This workshop will explore the critical role that health plays in building strong, resilient families and communities. Presiding over the session is Dr. Sandra Carr Melvin, Chair of the MS State NAACP Health Committee. She will be joined by a distinguished panel of experts, including: Warren Jones Dr. Erica Thompson Ms. Lauren Jones Together, they will engage in an insightful discussion on health strategies and solutions that benefit families and contribute to healthier communities. This is an invaluable opportunity to gain knowledge, ask questions, and take part in shaping healthier futures for our families. We encourage you to attend and be part of this impactful conversation.

Dr. Sandra Carr-Melvin Dr. Sandra Carr-Melvin
Warren Jones Warren Jones
Dr. Erica Quinn Thompson Dr. Erica Quinn Thompson
Lauren Jones Lauren Jones
10:30 am - 11:45 am Natchez Convention Center

Labor Workshop

The session will focus on actionable strategies to help ensure that Mississippiā€™s workforce of the future is diverse, inclusive, and positioned for success. Youā€™ll have the chance to engage with experts and fellow advocates who are working to empower communities of color in our state.

Crystal Moore Crystal Moore
Deeneaus ā€œDā€ Polk Deeneaus ā€œDā€ Polk
Gloria Mwase Gloria Mwase
Dr. Corey Wiggins Dr. Corey Wiggins
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Women in NAACP Luncheon

The luncheon will be presided over by Linda Spight, MS NAACP WIN Chair, and will feature an inspiring address by Jessica Beard, Minister and Author. This event will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the leadership and contributions of women within the NAACP, and to reflect on how we can continue to drive positive change in our communities.

Jessica Beard Jessica Beard
2:15 pm - 3:15 pm Natchez Convention Center

Membership Workshop

This workshop, presided over by Rev. Robert Tipton, Committee Chair, will highlight outstanding branches for their exceptional efforts in membership intake and provide valuable insights into best practices for recruitment and retention. Itā€™s a fantastic opportunity to learn, share experiences, and collaborate on ways to strengthen our membership base.

Rev. Robert Tipton Rev. Robert Tipton
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Natchez Convention Center

State of the State Address

This important address will be delivered by Executive Director, Charles V. Taylor, Jr. and will focus on our significant accomplishments for the 2023-2024 year, as well as charting our path forward. Itā€™s a unique opportunity to reflect on our progress and engage with the vision that will guide us in the coming years. Join us as we celebrate our achievements and look ahead to the future of the Mississippi NAACP. Your presence and participation are vital as we come together to strengthen our mission and community.

Charles Taylor Charles Taylor
7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Natchez Convention Center

Screening of "The Eversā€ Film

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Magnolia Bluffs Hotel & Casino

Youth & College Reception

9:00 pm - 11:00 pm Natchez Grand Hotel

Hospitality Suite

7:00 am - 7:45 am Natchez Convention Center

Yoga Start-Up

8:00 am - 9:00 am Natchez Convention Center

Plenary II

9:15 am - 10:45 am Natchez Convention Center

Education Workshop : What Gets Measured, Gets Done!

This insightful workshop will be presided over by Dr. Earl Watkins, Education Committee Chair and will address key issues shaping the future of education in our state. The workshop will cover: A review of the current accountability model for schools and school districts A review of the new school funding formula An exploration of the schoolā€™s role in workforce development This session promises to provide valuable information and tools to help you advocate for educational equity and success in Mississippi.

Dr. Adrian Hammitte Dr. Adrian Hammitte
Dr. Sandra Nash Dr. Sandra Nash
Dr. Toriano Holloway Dr. Toriano Holloway
Shemekia Lacey Rankin Shemekia Lacey Rankin
Zandra McDonald-Green Zandra McDonald-Green
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Criminal Justice Luncheon in Partnership with Youth & College

A joint luncheon hosted by the Youth & College and Criminal Justice Committees, will feature Judge Carlyn Hicks, Hinds County Youth Court Judge, as the keynote speaker. Judge Hicks will serve as the keynote speaker, sharing her experiences and the importance of youth engagement within the justice system. Her address will offer powerful perspectives on leadership, justice, and advocacy.

Judge Carlyn Hicks Judge Carlyn Hicks
1:15 pm - 1:45 pm Natchez Convention Center

Closing Plenary

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Natchez Civil Rights Tour

This special tour will take you to some of the most significant civil rights sites in Natchez, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on the history and legacy of the civil rights movement. One of the key highlights will be the unveiling of a Mississippi Freedom Trail marker dedicated to the Natchez Deacons for Defense and Justice, a group that played a pivotal role in defending the African American community during the height of the movement. President James will be a speaker at this event, sharing powerful insights on the history of the Deacons for Defense and the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

6:30 pm - 7:15 pm Natchez Convention Center

Freedom Fund Awards Reception

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Natchez Convention Center

79th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet

The eveningā€™s keynote speaker will be none other than Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, a renowned actress, activist, and Mississippi native whose voice and work have inspired countless individuals across the nation. Her keynote conversation promises to be thought-provoking and offer valuable insights into the continued fight for justice and equality. The Freedom Fund Banquet is always a highlight of the convention, offering a space for leaders and members alike to honor our shared achievements, reflect on our progress, and renew our dedication to empowering our communities.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
10:00 pm - 11:50 pm Natchez Convention Center

Hospitality Suite

Youth & College Schedule

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Magnolia Bluffs Casino & Hotel

Youth & College Reception

8:00 am - 8:45 am Natchez Convention Center

Breakfast & Registration

8:30 am - 9:10 am Natchez Convention Center

"Using Your Voice"

Henrycia Simmons Henrycia Simmons
9:15 am - 9:55 am Natchez Convention Center

"Civically Savvy"

10:00 am - 10:40 am Natchez Convention Center

"All In"

11:00 am - 1:00 pm Natchez Convention Center

Criminal Justice and Youth & College Joint Luncheon

Judge Carlyn Hicks Judge Carlyn Hicks