NAACP CA/HI 36th Annual STATE CONVENTION

Thursday

Oct 26

Branch Presidents & CA/HI NAACP Executive Committee Dinner 6PM
[ INVITE ONLY ]
SAN RAMON ROOM

Saturday

Oct 28

Sunday

Oct 29

Schedule

Branch Presidents’ Dinner

6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: San Ramon

Exclusive dinner to celebrate the NAACP CA/HI Branch Presidents and State Executive Committee members. RSVP is mandatory for Branch Presidents and State Executive Committee members by October 22nd.

DETAILS

President’s Welcome: Rick Callender, President

SPECIAL GUESTS:
Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, NAACP Board of Directors, NAACP New York President
Karen Boykin-Towns, NAACP Board of Directors Vice Chair
Trovon C. Williams, NAACP SVP of Communications
Shevann Steuben, NAACP Texas YCD President, NAACP Houston, Young Adult Committee Chair, NAACP Board of Directors
Barbara Lee, Congresswomen, District 12
Rob Bonta, California Attorney General
Lori Wilson, California Legislative Black Caucus, Chair
Kamilah Moore, California Reparations Task Force
Willie Brown, Former San Francisco Mayor
Mia Bonta, Assemblymember, District 18

Business Meeting & Opening Session

8 am – 9:30 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Keeping Your Unit Compliant

9:45 am – 10:15 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Economic Development Panel Discussion

10:15 am – 11:30 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Business Opportunities with General Services Department (GSA). GSA’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization will help small businesses do business with the government.

Details

Moderator
Bobby Bivens, CA/HI NAACP Economic Development Chair

Panelists
Exodie C. Roe III, General Services Administration
Danetta Jackson, CA Department of General Services
David DeLuz, CalTrans

WIN Luncheon

11:40 am – 1 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon A-E

Details

Welcome and Introductions:
Olivia Verrette

Prayer:
Dr. Cpt. Min. Yulanda Williams

Lift Every Voice & Sing:
Aliya Hall

Greetings and Acknowledgements:
President Rick Callender

Introduction ofThe Honorable Mia Bonta:
President Callender

Greetings:
Assemblymember Mia Bonta, District 18

Introduction of Keynote Speaker:
Olivia Verrette

Keynote Speaker:
Kamilah Moore

Awards Presentation:
Mrs. Lajuana Bivens

Closing Remarks:
Olivia Verrette & Dr. Satia Austin

Dismantling Racism:
Mock Trial (Stop the Hate)

1:15 pm – 3 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

We Will Rise: Navigating the Intersection of Gun Violence and Criminal Justice Reform

Details

Special Guests:
Allison Bracy, Bracy & Hawkins Law, P.C.
Channing Hawkins, Bracy & Hawkins Law, P.C.

[CANCELED] Beyond the Golden Arches: A McDonald’s Franchisee Making a Difference

 

Focus on Branch Finances

3:15 pm – 4:15 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

[Previous Workshop Description] McDonald’s franchisees don’t just serve delicious food; they also make a positive impact on their communities. Join us to hear an inspiring story of a family-owned McDonald’s franchisee who supports local causes, achieved business success and created a lasting legacy of corporate social responsibility.

Focus On Branch Finances:
Keynote Speaker:
Junko Kobayashi – Interim Chief Financial Officer, NAACP Finance Department

A dynamic and insightful workshop, “Focus on NAACP Branch Finances,” led by Junko Kobayashi, Interim Chief Financial Officer. With years of experience and expertise, Junko plays a pivotal role in overseeing all accounting and finance functions within the NAACP, making sure they align with our evolving strategy, vision, and mission.

In this engaging session, you’ll gain valuable insights into the financial backbone of the NAACP and its critical role in supporting our endeavors. Key takeaways from the workshop include:

Financial Strategy: Learn how financial solutions are strategically aligned with the NAACP’s vision and mission, ensuring we have the necessary resources to drive meaningful change.

Budget Management: Understand the principles of effective budgeting and resource allocation, empowering your branch to optimize financial resources.

Q&A Session: Bring your questions and challenges to the workshop. Junko will provide expert guidance and insights tailored to your specific needs.

This workshop is designed to equip NAACP Branch leaders and finance teams with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage and grow their branch finances effectively.

Together, we’ll strengthen our financial foundations and further our collective mission to bring about meaningful change in our communities.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert in the field and contribute to the financial success of your NAACP Branch.

Youth & College Division:
Opening Session & Safety Brief

3:20 pm – 5 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: San Ramon
Welcome to the Bay Area! Drop off your bags and come meet the California-Hawaii NAACP Youth and College Division leadership for some fun. Let’s get to know each other, get oriented to convention, and compete for prizes with a game of NAACP Family Feud. You won’t want to miss special guest appearances by representatives from the National Youth & College Headquarters, the National Board of Directors, the NAACP Foundation, and past presidents of the state youth division.

Details

Greetings & Introductions:
Ayo Banjo, CA HI Youth & College Division, President

Youth & College Division:
Advisor’s Orientation

5 pm – 5:20 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: San Ramon

Youth Focus Dinner

7:15 pm – 9:30 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon A-E

Step into an evening of stars at the Youth-Focused Dinner and Awards. Help us to shine a spotlight on our young all-stars as we celebrate the remarkable mission, vision, and accomplishments of the California-Hawaii NAACP Youth and College Division. During this star-studded event, you are invited to walk around the room and discover the unique contributions of each youth council while grooving to the stellar sounds brought to you by the talented ACT-SO program performers. This is an elegant and formal affair that promises to be a night to remember! Intergenerational conversations are highly encouraged! Please make it a point to meet someone new.

Details

Welcome
Ayo Banjo, President, California Hawaii NAACP Youth and College Division

Invocation
Jordan Walker, Member, NAACP National Board of Directors National Youth Board Member

Lift Every Voice and Sing
Aliya Hall, ACT-SO Gold Medalist, Oakland, CA

Greetings from the State Conference

Keynote Speaker
Shevann Steuben

Awards Presentations

New Kid on the Block
Presented by James Brown IV

Juanita Jackson Mitchell Outstanding Youth Leadership and Activism Award
Presented by Jazzlyn Rainey

Membership Award
Presented by Kamden Carr

Youth Unit of the Year
Presented by Jordan Walker

Willis Edwards Leadership Award
Presented by Ayo Banjo, YCD President

Advisor of the Year
Presented by Dr. Satia Austin

Youth President’s Award
Presented by Ayo Banyo, YCD President

Movie Screening: The Space Race

10 pm – 11:30 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Youth & College Division:
Youth Social: Sip & Paint

10 pm – 1 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Bayside 2 & 3

Veteran’s Continental Breakfast & Program

7:30 am – 8:30 am

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Overview

LOCATION:
Food: Irvine
Program: Irvine

ARMED SERVICES & VETERANS AFFAIRS CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Honoring The 75th Anniversary of Executive Order 9981 and The 75th Anniversary of the signing of the Women’s Armed Service Integration Act

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Details

Presiding & Welcome
Alphonso Braggs Assistant Secretary, National Board of Directors Chair, Political Action & Legislative Affairs Committee, Co-Chair, Armed Services & Veterans Affairs Committee President, Honolulu, Hawaii Branch NAACP Honolulu, HI

Invocation
Reverend Diana McDaniel, Friends of Port Chicago

Posting of Colors
Travis AFB Honor Guard

National Anthem
Shayla Trumpmaster Bell

Special Veterans Welcome
Amaya Fields, President of the Stockton Youth Council, and Gia Berlus, 1st Vice President of the Stockton Youth Council, and Members of the Stockton Youth Council Branch

Greetings
Virginia Wimmer, MSW
Cal-Vet Deputy Secretary of Women Veterans

The Trailblazing 6888th Battalion of WWII
Video Presentation

Observance of the 75th Anniversary of the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act
Dr. Antwanisha Williamson-Berlus Member, National Board of Directors Armed Services & Veterans Affairs Committee, Chair, California-Hawaii State Conference Armed Services & Veterans Affairs Committee NAACP Stockton, California

Observance of the 75th Anniversary of the Desegregation of the U.S. Armed Services and the 50th Anniversary All Volunteer
Alphonso Braggs

75th Anniversary of Executive Order 9981
Video Presentation

Closing Remarks: Addressing African American Veteran Disparities on the Homefront and Effectively Advocating through Partnerships, Relationships, and Truth
Pastor Paul Hall, Pastor Pentecostal Temple COGIC

Special Announcement introducing the CA-HI State NAACP Distinguished Military Leadership Award and the Women Veteran Meritorious Service Award
Rick Callender, President California-Hawaii NAACP State Conference

Benediction
Dr. Sue May, ASVA Committee Member, California-Hawaii NAACP State Conference

Youth & College Division:
Juvenile Justice Workshop

8 am – 9:45 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon G & H
Delve into crucial topics such as prevention, intervention, and post-conviction, and discover effective ways to engage with government officials on matters vital to our state’s youth, particularly impacting black and brown juveniles. Our discussion will revolve around the pursuit of equitable treatment, the provision of essential support, and the development of innovative strategies to steer our youth away from the justice system. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the change!

Details

Facilitator
Khalil Burrell

Presenter
Khalil Ferguson

Veterans’ Affairs Workshop

8:45 am – 10:15 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Irvine

We shall honor the 75th anniversary of Executive Order 9981: Desegregation of the Armed Forces (1948) by hosting the screening of “Love & Liberty” documentary followed by a panel discussion about EO 9980 and EO 9981.

In 1940, African-Americans made up almost 10 percent of the total U.S. population (12.6 million people out of a total population of 131 million). During World War II, the Army had become the nation’s largest minority employer. Of the 2.5 million African-American males who registered for the draft through December 31, 1945, more than one million were inducted into the armed forces. Along with thousands of Black women, these inductees served in all branches of service and in all Theaters of Operations during World War II.

On July 26, 1948, President Truman issued this executive order abolishing segregation in the armed forces and ordering full integration of all branches. Executive Order 9981 stated that “there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed forces without regard to race, color, religion, or national origin.” It established the President’s Committee on Equality of Treatment and Opportunity in the Armed Services to recommend revisions to military regulations in order to implement this policy.

Details

Moderator
Dr. Antwanisha Williamson-Berlus
Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Chair, CA/HI NAACP

Panel
Jonathan Lee, Assistant U.S. Attorney
Yulie Padmore, Port Chicago Alliance
Rev. Diana McDaniel, Friends of Port Chicago

Gwen Moore Utilities Forum:
Broadband, Equity Access & Adoption for All

9:15 am – 10:15 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Access to broadband services is no longer an option to Californians; it has quickly become an essential service. Of the many inequities highlighted by the pandemic, the most glaring has been the “digital divide”. Whether it was access to education, healthcare, the ability to work from home or order household necessities, the gap in technology access quickly became a dividing line between low-income families and those with more affluence. A key strategy towards addressing these inequities is ubiquitous access to technology.

This workshop will address questions such as: What is the State of California doing to ensure ubiquitous access to broadband services in unserved communities, especially rural communities and multi-family dwellings? What programs are available to reduce costs for this essential service in lower income communities? How do we ensure that lack of access to high speed broadband does not create an artificial redline in certain communities?

Details

Facilitator
Morandon Henry

Panel
Michael Redding, Special Assistant Attorney General
Pastor Michael McBride, Live Free USA
Khalil Ferguson, The United CORE Alliance

Youth & College Division: Back to the Bylaws & Leadership

10 am – 11:10 am

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LOCATION: Salon G & H

Environmental Justice

10:30 am – 11:25 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Equity in Emergency Preparedness: Strengthening Communities of Color Against Climate Disasters

Climate change is our new reality, and its adverse impacts disproportionately affect our communities, whether through catastrophic flooding, punishing droughts, contaminated water, or destructive wildfires. This panel session features speakers from key organizations – the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), and Valley Water, a local agency specializing in clean drinking water and flood protection. You will gain insights into practical steps you can take today to enhance your community’s readiness. You will also learn about the resources available—including grant funding—at every level of government to aid communities in both preparing for and recovering from climate change-induced disasters that persistently impact us. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it’s here, and the time to bolster emergency preparedness for our most vulnerable communities is now. Join us to ensure your community is climate resilient and prepared for the next climate disaster.

Details

Moderator
Rachael Gibson, Environmental and Climate Justice Chair, NAACP

Panel
Brandi Richard Thomas, Public Affairs Officer, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Connie Casto, Grants Management Specialist, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
JR DeLaRosa, Climate and Science Advisor, Cal OES
Cindy Martinez, Valley Water Office of Emergency Services, Sr. Emergency Manager

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Voter Empowerment

11:30 am – 12:15 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Details

Introductory Statements and Introduction of Presenters
Mr. Bobby Bivens, NAACP CA/HI Economic Development Chair and Moderator

Panel Presentations
Exodie C. Roe III, General Services Administration
Danetta Jackson, CA Department of General Services
David DeLuz, CalTrans

Political Luncheon

12:30 pm – 1:45 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon A-E

Details

Welcome and Introductions
Rick Callender, Esq., NAACP CA/HI President

Prayer
Rev. Lori Owens

Lift Every Voice and Sing
Rayland Albert

Recognition of Sponsors

Lunch is Served

Musical Performance
Rayland Albert

Video Greetings
Assemblymember Chris Holden and Superintendent Tony Thurmond

Introduction of The Honorable Elihu Harris
Rick Callender, Esq., NAACP CA/HI President

Introduction of The Honorable Willie L. Brown
The Honorable Elihu Harris, Political Action Vice Chair, Former Mayor of Oakland

Greetings
The Honorable Willie L. Brown, Former Mayor of San Francisco

Introduction of The Honorable London Breed
President Rick Callender

Greetings
The Honorable London Breed, Mayor of San Francisco

Introduction of Keynote Speaker
Carolyn Veal-Hunter, Esq., NAACP CA/HI Treasurer

Keynote Speaker
Councilmember Treva Reid

Musical Selection
Amaya Fields, Stockton Youth Council President

Awards Presentation
Ruby McKnight Williams Award- Ms. Marian Fifi Locke
Lulann Sapp McGriff Award- Dr. Cheyenne Bryant

Closing Remarks
President Callender

Youth & College Division: Health Forum: Ending Racial Health Disparities

2 pm – 3:10 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Anaheim

Youth & College Division: How Can Communities Thrive in Green Spaces

2 pm – 3:10 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Newport Beach

Youth & College Division:
Male Forum

3:20 pm – 4:40 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Bayside II

Male Forum: Finding Joy in the Black Male Experience
Join us for an open forum and discussion where we shift the narrative and uplift the authentic voices of young black men. We’ll challenge the age-old misperceptions and the unfair obstacles they’ve faced. In this inclusive space, we’ll break free from societal critiques and naive judgments, which often overshadow the real issues. Together, we’ll dismantle the stereotypes and delve into a more nuanced understanding of their experiences. Let’s change the conversation and foster a platform for truth, understanding, and growth, and allyship.

Details

Facilitator
James Brown IV

Presenters
Philip Johnson
Dr. William Syms

Youth & College Division:
Female Forum

3:20 pm – 4:40 pm

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LOCATION: Bayside III

Black Girl Magic: Fierce, Fabulous, Phenomenally Feminist
This spirited dialogue revolves around the vision and choices that shape the future of the female voice, a vital force in addressing today’s most critical challenges. We believe that full and equal participation of women is not only a fundamental human right but also essential to a thriving society. Join us to challenge and change the narrative, recognizing the importance of women’s representation in all aspects of life, from politics to entertainment and the workforce. It’s time to amplify, support, and unite for a brighter future.

Details

Facilitator
Jazzlyn Rainey

Presenter
RaShawna Williams

BREAKOUT SESSION #1
Labor

2 pm – 3:15 pm

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LOCATION: Salon F

Black Workers Center: Helping Increase Underrepresented Black Workers in Los Angeles
This session aims to delve into the evolving role and responsibilities of labor in our society. We’ll explore the historical significance of labor in sustaining fair wages and thriving communities nationwide.

As we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, our conversation will also focus on the goals of this historic march and the pivotal role labor played in it. We will examine how labor continues to be a crucial factor in ensuring equitable pay for Californians and all residents of our nation.

Dr. Michael Davis, Chair of the NAACP CA/HI Labor Committee, will lead this engaging dialogue. Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect on the past, analyze the present, and shape the future of labor’s impact on our communities and the pursuit of economic justice.

Details

Moderator
Mike Davis

Panel
David Sanders, SEIU
Kevin Gresham, Workforce Equity Demonstration
Boo Athj, BWC

BREAKOUT SESSION #1
Communications

2 pm – 3:15 pm

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LOCATION: Salon J

Strategy and Media Response
Having to respond to crises is nothing new to NAACP California Hawaii Branches, but thinking strategically can be difficult when prioritizing a swift response. Hear from NAACP Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Trovon Williams and NAACP Oakland Branch President Cynthia Adams on best practices for branches, including building a unified strategy to address a crisis playing out and the first steps to a media response.

Details

Facilitator
Y’Anad Burrell, Glasshouse PR, NAACP CA/HI Communications Committee

Panel:
Trovon Williams, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications NAACP
Cynthia Adams, NAACP Oakland Branch President

BREAKOUT SESSION #1
Education Workshop

2 pm – 3:15 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon H & G

The African American family and supporting village are thrust into school systems that are more concerned with school policing of our youth than their Civil and Educational Right to be educated. This workshop is designed to empower, liberate, and heal Black families impacted by unfair treatment in California’s public schools. Through engaging discussions and expert guidance, we will explore strategies to combat systemic biases, foster inclusivity, and advocate for equitable education.

Details

Moderators
Dr. Lawanda Wesley, NAACP CA/HI Education Chair
Hank Roberts, NAACP CA/HI Education Committee Member

Panelists
Dr. Patricia Nunley, Nubian Consult
Dr. Goddard, Institute for the Advanced Study of Black Family Life and Culture, Inc.
Zelon Harris, Black Parent Resource Center

BREAKOUT SESSION #1
Health

2 pm – 3:15 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon I

Increasing Health Equity Through the Cancer Lens

Details

Moderator
Kristina Martel, Strategic Director DE&I, American Cancer Society

Speakers
Stephanie Gordon-Rivera
Nynikka Palmer, Dr.PH, MPH
David Ford

BREAKOUT SESSION #2
Criminal Justice

3:30 pm – 4:45 pm

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LOCATION: Salon G & H

We Will Rise: Navigating the Intersection of Gun Violence and Criminal Justice Reform
In 2022, California made significant progress towards reducing its homicide rates, but more remains to be done. While crime rates remain significantly below their historical highs, property and violent crimes continue to have devastating consequences for communities across the state, and gun violence remains a major threat to public safety. Despite having a gun death rate significantly below the national average, gun violence accounted for nearly three-fourths of all homicides in California in 2022.

Details

Facilitator
Morandon Henry

Panel
Michael Redding, Special Assistant Attorney General
Pastor Michael McBride, Live Free USA
Khalil Ferguson, The United CORE Alliance

BREAKOUT SESSION #2
Housing

3:30 pm – 4:45 pm

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LOCATION: Salon J

Navigating California’s Housing Crisis
The panel discussion on “Navigating California’s Housing Crisis” delves into one of the most pressing issues facing the state today. California’s housing market has undergone significant challenges, with soaring prices, limited affordable options, and increasing homelessness rates. This session brings together experts, policymakers, and thought leaders from various fields to dissect the multifaceted dimensions of this crisis and explore potential solutions.

Through a thoughtful exchange of ideas and experiences, the panel aims to shed light on the root causes of the housing crisis, examining the roles of government policies, market forces, and community dynamics. Discussions will also revolve around innovative approaches to create more accessible and sustainable housing options for all Californians.

Attendees can expect a dynamic dialogue that combines research-backed insights with on-the-ground experiences, offering a comprehensive understanding of the current state of California’s housing landscape. The panelists will also address audience questions, providing a unique opportunity for direct engagement and collective brainstorming.

Details

Moderator
D’Adrea Davie, Housing Chair, NAACP

Panel
Mr. Ashley Thomas, III, National Association of Real Brokers (NAREB), First Vice President
Aliyah Shaheed, Organizer Rise Economy
Leanne Walker, California Housing Finance Agency

BREAKOUT SESSION #2
Health

3:30 pm – 4:45 pm

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LOCATION: Salon I

President’s Reception

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

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LOCATION: San Ramon

President’s Awards Dinner

6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

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LOCATION: Salon A-E

The Branch Awards Dinner is NOT included in the 3-day and 1-day pass Adult Registration. You must purchase this add-on ticket to attend. Join NAACP CA/HI State Conference President Rick Callender for the NAACP CA/HI Branch Awards Dinner for high performing NAACP Branches and members, and a fireside chat which promises to be a dynamic and interesting conversation.

$125.00 per ticket

Details

Emcee
LaJuana Bivens, NAACP CA/HI Secretary/State Director

Performances

San Francisco All Star Big Band

VOG Introduction of Mrs. Bivens
Taneicia Herring

Emcee Welcome
NAACP CA/HI Secretary/State Director LaJuana Bivens

Invocation
NAACP San Jose/Silicon Valley Branch President, Rev. Jethroe Moore

Lift Every Voice and Sing
San Francisco All Star Big Band

Dignitary Greetings
LaJuana Introduces Dignitary Lori Wilson
Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson, Chair Black Caucus

Video Introduction of Hazel Dukes

Introduction of Fireside Chat Speakers
LaJuana Bivens

Fireside Chat
NAACP CA/HI President Rick Callender
NAACP National Board Member, Hazel Dukes

Swearing in of 2024-2026 NAACP CA/HI NAACP Executive Committee
Hazel Dukes

Presentation of NAACP CA/HI President’s Award
Rick Callender

Closing Remarks
NAACP CA/HI President Rick L. Callender, Esq.

Youth & College Division:
Youth Social: San Francisco Nights Paparazzi

10 pm – 1 am

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LOCATION: San Ramon

Prayer & Memorial Breakfast

8 am – 9:15 am

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon A – E

Details

Emcee:
Rev. Jethroe Moore II

Greetings:
Congresswoman Barbara Lee

Invocation:
Rev. Thomas Fisher

Scripture:
Rev. Thomas Fisher

Performance:
Carla Johnson

REMEMBERING OUR MEMBERS (Memorial)

Prayer:
Rev. Jethroe Moore II
Rabbi Mychal Copeland

Keynote:
Rev. Thomas Fisher

Closing Remarks:
Rev. Jethroe Moore II

Youth & College Division
Executive Committee Meeting

9:30 am – 10:30 am

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LOCATION: San Ramon

Closing Business Meeting and Resolutions

9:30 am – 12:30 pm

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Overview

LOCATION: Salon F

Program

President’s Report

Thank you to our generous sponsors!
NAACP CA/HI 36th Annual STATE CONVENTION