Quck answer
The NAACP, or the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, is a civil rights organization in the United States. Founded in 1909, its mission is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights for all persons and to eliminate racial discrimination. The NAACP is known for its advocacy, lobbying, and legal efforts to fight for equal rights and justice. It has played a significant role in landmark civil rights cases and has been instrumental in advancing the rights and opportunities for African Americans and other marginalized communities in the country.
Have you ever wondered how you could show your support for the rights of all people? Would you like to be part of a group of passionate individuals dedicated to achieving equality? The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is the oldest and largest civil rights organization in the United States. But what is the story behind its formation?
On August 14, 1908, in Springfield, Illinois, race riots erupted. Two African American men were held in the local jail, accused of crimes against white individuals. A group of white people planned to storm the jail and harm the men. However, they were enraged to discover that the sheriff had secretly transferred the men to another jail.
The mob turned to violence, even burning the car that had been used to rescue the African American men. Throughout the summer, white individuals continued to attack black individuals, damaging homes and businesses. Over 40 black families lost their homes when their neighborhood was destroyed. The state militia was eventually called in to restore order in the city.
In response to the Springfield riots and the mistreatment of African Americans, a group of black and white activists convened in 1909. Some of these activists were members of the Niagara Movement, a civil rights group. White journalist William English Walling wrote an article proposing the formation of a new movement to fight for equality. He encouraged white individuals to join forces with black individuals in the pursuit of equal treatment.
On February 12, 1909, this group gathered in New York City, deliberately choosing a significant date: the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The group issued a call to examine race relations in the United States since the Emancipation Proclamation. Sixty influential Americans, both black and white, signed the call for a conference. On May 31 and June 1, 1909, 300 men and women came together in New York City for the National Negro Conference.
During the second annual meeting on May 12, 1910, a conference committee established a formal organization, which would become known as the NAACP. Its founders included notable figures such as W. E. B. Du Bois and Ida B. Wells. The organization aimed to put an end to segregation, discrimination, and racial violence.
In 1910, the NAACP launched its publication, The Crisis. This magazine provided information on racial issues, black life, and culture. W. E. B. Du Bois served as the editor and the publication also covered the activities of the NAACP. It explored politics and strategies to garner support for the rights of black individuals. Initially published monthly, it eventually became a quarterly publication. Today, The Crisis remains the oldest magazine focusing on racial and social justice issues.
In 1910, the NAACP also took on its first major legal defense case. The organization fought for the release of Pink Franklin, who had been convicted of murder and sentenced to death. Thanks to the efforts of the NAACP, Franklin’s sentence was changed to life in prison. Nine years later, he was released by the courts in South Carolina.
In 1940, the NAACP established its Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF), led by Thurgood Marshall. Marshall played a crucial role in the civil rights movement and won several cases that ultimately led to the landmark decision in Brown v. Board of Education. This ruling declared that segregation in schools was unconstitutional. In 1957, the LDF became a separate organization from the NAACP.
Today, the NAACP continues its commitment to supporting civil rights and social justice movements. With 2,200 chapters, the organization advocates for an end to racism and fights for equity in areas such as healthcare, climate justice, voting rights, and education.
Does your city or region have an NAACP chapter? Why do you think this organization remains so important?
Give It a Try
Engage in these activities to delve deeper into the history of the NAACP, civil rights, and the pursuit of racial equality.
- Head to your local library to learn more about civil rights movements throughout history. Utilize a Canva template or paper along with art supplies you have to compare and contrast two or three of the movements you study. Share the chart and your newfound knowledge with friends and trusted adults.
- How familiar are you with the experiences and perspectives of older friends and family members regarding civil rights? Formulate three or four questions to ask trusted adults. If needed, you can refer to Family Search’s website for guidance on conducting an interview. Document your family’s civil rights history to share with friends and family.
- Who is a notable figure from the civil rights history of the United States whom you admire? Seek assistance from a trusted adult in locating online images of the individual you choose. Create your own sculpture, drawing, or painting of that person. Present your artwork to your friends and family, and explain why you selected that particular figure.
Sources of Wonder
- https://www.britannica.com/dictionary (accessed Feb 22, 2023)
- https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/naacp/founding-and-early-years.html (accessed Feb 15, 2023)
- https://www.lib.niu.edu/1996/iht329622.html (accessed Feb 15, 2023)
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/National-Association-for-the-Advancement-of-Colored-People (accessed Feb 15, 2023)
- https://naacp.org/about/our-history (accessed Feb 15, 2023)
FAQ
1. What is the NAACP?
The NAACP, or the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, is a civil rights organization founded in 1909. It is one of the oldest and most influential organizations dedicated to fighting for the rights of African Americans and other marginalized communities.
2. What is the mission of the NAACP?
The mission of the NAACP is to secure political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all individuals. The organization works towards achieving its mission through advocacy, litigation, and community mobilization.
3. How does the NAACP advocate for civil rights?
The NAACP advocates for civil rights through various means, including lobbying for legislation, raising public awareness, organizing peaceful protests and demonstrations, and engaging in legal battles. The organization has played a vital role in landmark Supreme Court cases and has been instrumental in the fight for voting rights, desegregation, and equal opportunity.
4. Who can join the NAACP?
The NAACP is open to individuals of all backgrounds who support its mission and goals. While the organization was initially founded to fight for the rights of African Americans, it has expanded its focus to include other marginalized communities. Anyone who stands against racism and discrimination is welcome to join and become a member.
5. How does the NAACP address current social issues?
The NAACP addresses current social issues by actively engaging in public discourse, organizing campaigns, and advocating for policy changes. The organization focuses on issues such as criminal justice reform, educational equity, economic empowerment, healthcare access, and voting rights. Through its initiatives and partnerships, the NAACP strives to bring about systemic change and create a more just society.
6. How can I support the NAACP?
There are several ways to support the NAACP. You can become a member and actively participate in local chapter activities. Donating to the organization or volunteering your time and skills are also impactful ways to support their work. Additionally, spreading awareness about the NAACP’s mission and initiatives through social media and engaging in conversations about racial equality can help amplify their message.
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