NAACP sees membership increase after Freedom Fund Banquet

By Janell Williams

 The NAACP hosted its 49th annual Freedom Fund Banquet last weekend at the Convention & Trade Center. The event featured Congressman James Clyburn as a speaker. The funds generated at the event assist the organization in its numerous contributions to the Muscogee County community. Membership and community service were key topics throughout the Thriving Together-themed night. 

In an audience of over 600, there was no shortage of current members offering insight into the many opportunities the NAACP has offered them and their communities. One particular member, District 6 South Carolina Congressman James Clyburn, shared the lifelong effect NAACP membership has had on his life. Clyburn shared that his journey with the organization began when he was a kid and continues today.

“I became the president of my local NAACP Youth Council at the age of 12. Now, I’m 83 – you do the math. And I still have the shirt they gave us that year at the youth council,” said Congressman Clyburn.

At the end of the event, attendees were encouraged to sign up for membership in the NAACP. The sign-up booklet filled almost instantaneously with the names, phone numbers and email addresses of interested parties.

“We have seen an increase in memberships of about 20 percent. We are so thankful to everyone who was able to attend,” said Columbus NAACP President Melvin Tanner.

As the year progresses, the organization will continue to host events for the Columbus community, including a blood drive and voter registration assistance. More information about upcoming events and membership can be found here.