Albany Dougherty NAACP reorganizing, planning town hall

ALBANY — The reorganizing of the Albany Dougherty branch of the NAACP, and what will be expected of it, is anticipated to be the topic of a town hall meeting planned for next week.

Officials said the branch is reorganizing thanks to a community effort of individuals who hope to see its return to join other south Georgia NAACP branches in the fight to eradicate racism. The town hall it is hosting will take place at 6 p.m. on April 18 at Albany State University East Peace Hall, Room 127.

Chartered in the 1950s during the civil rights movement era, the branch was involved in the fight for civil rights in the state of Georgia. Home to prominent civil rights leaders and fighters for justice, it made strides for African Americans throughout the years — being on the forefront of the fight against Jim Crow laws that impacted south Georgia citizens.

Officials said issues such as voter suppression, wage laws, interactions with police, mass incarceration and the climate of the current presidential administration has caused a surge in memberships nationally for the NAACP. The same interest has occurred in Albany.

“I am excited to see the birth of a new NAACP branch in Albany,” Albany Dougherty NAACP interim President Joshua Nelson, pastor of Emanuel Seventh-day Adventist Church, said. “As an historic organization for defending the disenfranchised and advancing people of color, it is encouraging to see so many grassroots organizations and movements rising up throughout Albany. There is an undercurrent power and resilience by residents who love their city and want to see it prosper.

“The reorganization of the NAACP comes at a time to join these movements together to maximize our impact. There are still many issues to tackle such as food security, economic development, criminal justice reform, utilities, voter suppression and racial reconciliation. Our hope is to empower and organize the community towards sustainable change. This city will be the shining example in southwest Georgia of how a community comes together to end all inequities for the betterment and prosperity of all.”

The prevalence of racism in Albany, the relevance of the NAACP today and what issues can the NAACP tackle in Albany are among the questions the town hall will answer. At the event, individuals can learn all about the Albany Dougherty NAACP past and present, and learn how to shape the future.

Officials said there is no cost to attend this event, and individuals can apply for membership onsite. Those wishing to get more information about the Albany Dougherty branch can email [email protected] or call (229) 231-0208.

Those wishing to become a NAACP member can pick up copies of the membership application at the Albany Civil Rights Museum and mail the payment in the form of a check or money order to P.O. Box 5261, Albany, GA, 31706. They can also send the branch an email containing an electronic copy of the application.

Special Logo