December 22, 2025

On behalf of the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of Betty Reid Soskin, who was a National Park Ranger, historian, and lifelong advocate for justice whose impact spans generations.

As the nation’s oldest National Park Ranger and an inspirational voice for truth, Betty Reid Soskin dedicated her life to ensuring that the stories of Black Americans, particularly Black women, were not erased, overlooked, or misunderstood. Her work challenged dominant narratives and expanded our collective understanding of American history, democracy, and civil rights. 

Betty Reid Soskin’s legacy reminds us that civil rights work is not confined to a single era. It is ongoing, intergenerational, and rooted in courage, integrity, and truth-telling. Her commitment to justice, equity, and historical accountability aligns deeply with the mission of the NAACP and continues to inspire our work across California and Hawaii.

A beloved Bay Area icon, Betty’s life and work have been celebrated locally and nationally. Her story has inspired artistic and documentary projects, including Sign My Name to Freedom, a feature documentary that explores her life through music, memory, and the continued struggle for justice — a connection that deepens our shared mission and reflects her lasting influence on historical memory and civic engagement. As a ranger at Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park, she helped ensure the broader narrative included the experiences of Black Americans, particularly during WWII.

We honor her life, her voice, and her unwavering dedication to ensuring that our history is told fully and honestly. Rest in peace, Betty Reid Soskin. Your legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.

Sincerely,  

Rick L. Callender. Esq,
President, NAACP California Hawaii State Conference