🗽The Power of Unity!

The month of October was a reminder of what we can do when we do it together. We started the month with our 89th NAACP New York State Convention, which kicked off with our first-ever Black Policy Roundtable, where leaders across the state gathered to discuss what we can do—not individually, but collectively.

We convened for our 89th State Convention, embodying our theme Rooted to Rise—rooting ourselves in knowledge and community so we may rise against the growing tension in this country. Building on the momentum of the convention, branches took to the streets for Golden Day, a day when you can register and vote on the same day, activating voters from Buffalo to Long Island.

Closing the month, the NAACP New York State Conference led the New York Fights Forward rally with a clear message. This  presidential administration has attacked our residents, including Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James and as President L. Joy Williams put it, “Tish has a history of defending the people, and with her under attack, we feel we the people are under attack.”

So we came together to echo a message: Hands off Tish. Hands off New York. Hands off our democracy!

📬 Know someone who should be in the loop?
Forward this to a friend and invite them to subscribe at nysnaacp.org.
Let’s stay connected—and keep building together.

👊🏾✊🏾New York Fights Forward

The New York Fights Forward rally was held at the First Baptist Church of Crown Heights, where community leaders, elected officials, and members of the public gathered in solidarity with the people of New York and Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James.

The rally opened with powerful words from our president, L. Joy Williams: “Free people don’t stand around while others are bound.”

Many esteemed freedom fighters attended and spoke, including Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, among others. We thank them all for continuing to serve as examples and leaders within our communities.

Through all the voices, one message rang clear — we must stand up to those who try to instill fear in us, to show that we are not afraid, and that we will not only fight back, but fight forward.

🎥_{CLICK HERE TO WATCH NEW YORK FIGHTS FORWARD RALLY} 

🌳 Rooted to Rise: 2025 89th NAACP New York State Conference Convention Recap

The 2025 NAACP New York State Conference Convention gathered members, delegates, and youth leaders from across the state under the powerful theme “Rooted to Rise.”

This year’s convention marked an emotional milestone — the first without the presence of Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, whose lifelong leadership and dedication to justice continue to guide our mission. Her spirit was felt throughout every plenary, panel, and conversation, reminding all that the seeds she planted continue to grow through each of us.

The Long Island Region served as a gracious and dynamic host, setting the stage for groundbreaking dialogue, including the first Black Policy Roundtable, which brought together activists, policy experts, and public officials to discuss pathways for legislative and community advancement.

There were many award winners this year — too many to name — but we thank each of them for their relentless commitment to serving their communities. A special salute goes to longstanding Treasurer Lottie Tann and First Vice President Karen Blanding, as they transition from their current roles to continue supporting the NAACP New York State Conference in new capacities.

The convention also became a defining moment in solidarity, as attendees responded to the breaking news of Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James’s indictment. The first chants of “Hands off Tish!” echoed throughout the convention hall, uniting members in defense of a leader whose pursuit of justice mirrors the NAACP’s own mission.

As the convention closed, delegates and members alike departed with determination to strengthen branches, expand membership, and continue building a foundation for lasting change.

Rooted in purpose. Rising in unity.

📝Become a Member as we continue the work — because united, we rise.

October was an eventful month to say the least, From the national convention to the No Kings protest, from rallying in support of Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James to taking the streets on Golden Day to get out the vote. New York branches proved once again the power of the NAACP.