Our Mission Statement: to achieve equity, political rights and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination and accelerate the wellbeing, education and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.

Juneteenth —a day that Black Americans have been celebrating for more than a century. The NAACP Brockton Area Branch joined multiple organizations in honoring freedom and Black Culture.

• June 13, 2026 - African American Association ( Executive Commitee)
• June 19, 2026 - Harambee Learning and Cultural Center (Education Committee)
• June 19, 2026 - Stoughton (WIN Committee)
• June 20, 2026 - Father Bills's Shelter (WIN Committee)

Members of the Executive Committee, the Education Committee and the WIN Committee celebrated Juneteenth by hosting tables at various events and serving food at Father Bill's and Mainspring.

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States. The holiday's name, first used in the 1890s, is a portmanteau of the words "June" and "nineteenth", referring to June 19, 1865, the day when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation.

NAACP Brockton Area Branch Participates in Juneteenth Celebration - June 19, 2026

The NAACP Brockton Area Branch participated in the 7th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, “Quest for Freedom,” held June 19 at Brockton City Hall Plaza. The event was hosted by the Harambee Learning and Cultural Center in collaboration with the African American Association and featured music, drumming, poetry, dance, and family activities commemorating Juneteenth.

The celebration brought together residents from across the Greater Brockton area to honor African American history, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity.

A special thank you to Erin Mburu, a student home from college, who contacted our branch about volunteering opportunities. She also volunteered at the African American Association on June 13.

Vanessa Nascimento

Chair, Education Committee

June 18, 2026 Prostate Cancer Awareness - Virtual

The NAACP Brockton Area Branch and AdMeTech Foundation hosted a “Prostate Cancer Awareness” virtual event on Thursday June 18^th. The featured speakers were Dr. Ryan Frankel of Greater Boston Urology and Dr. Faina Shtern, President and CEO of AdMeTech Foundation. Dr. Frankel reviewed Emerging Advances in Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment. Dr. Shtern reviewed the Prostate Cancer Equity Resource Program.

The NAACP Brockton Area Branch and AdMeTech have held similar events twice a year for the last ten years; encouraging men, especially black men, to be screened for Prostate Cancer beginning at age 40 because statistics show that Black Men are 2.5 Times More Likely to Die from Prostate Cancer. Early Detection Saves Lives!

Since we began our Prostate Cancer Awareness presentations in 2016, the mortality rate for prostate cancer in Brockton has been significantly reduced.

At our June 18, 2026 event, State Representatives Bridgett Plouffe and Rita Mendes shared supporting comments for our program. We also heard from Brockton Mayor Moises Rodrigues, who has advocated for our program since it’s inception.

Thanks to Bishop Tony Branch for serving as MC.Awareness.

Steve Bernard

Past President

June 23, 2026 - Brockton Library

The NAACP Brockton Health Committee presented a very meaningful and informative program on Sickle Cell Anemia on June 23, 2026.

It was held at the Main Brockton Public Library. 

Guest Speakers included Barbara Cotton, Executive Director of the SE Chapter of the Mass American Red Cross; Mimi Campbell and Elsa Franco, two mothers who have children with Sickle Cell Anemia; and Jeffrey Campbell, a young man who is a Sickle Cell Anemia Warrior and Survivor.

Our Masters of Ceremony included Dr. Sheila Marcellus, and Ana Oliver from The Brockton School Committee.

Mimi and Elsa shared their heartfelt feelings and the difficulties of raising children with Sickle Cell Anemia.

Jeffrey provided much information on growing up and living as a young adult with Sickle Cell Anemia, which included the experience of a longterm stay at the world famous St. Jude Hospital in his childhood.



Barbara Cotton the very eloquent Red Cross Director provided educational slides and a presentation on "Sickle Cell Anemia: What You Need to Know."

All of us in attendance left the Library with new knowledge on the pain, complications, and treatment of Sickle Cell Anemia. We also were inspired to work harder on Sponsoring Blood Drives that provide the much needed life saving blood for folks with Sickle Cell Anemia; which our NAACP Branch has previously sponsored. We also left that evening with encouragement to donate blood ourselves. Our speakers truly touched our hearts. We were grateful to everyone who attended our Program, and hope to work harder in the future to encourage family and friends to donate blood. The photos below are from the evening we spent at The Brockton Public Library.

Janet Trask

Chair, Health Committee

June 17, 2026 Voter Registration at Brockton High School

The NAACP Brockton Area Branch was proud to host a voter registration initiative at Brockton High School, where 101 students registered or pre-registered to vote as they prepare to reach voting age. The event provided students with an opportunity to learn about the voter registration process, ask questions about civic participation, and better understand the importance of exercising their constitutional right to vote.

For more than a century, the NAACP has worked to protect and advance voting rights, recognizing that access to the ballot box is fundamental to a strong democracy. Educating and empowering young people to participate in the electoral process remains an important part of that mission.

Massachusetts allows eligible residents who are 16 or 17 years old to pre-register to vote. Individuals who are U.S. citizens, Massachusetts residents, and not currently incarcerated due to a felony conviction may submit a voter registration application before reaching age 18. Once they turn 18, they are automatically added to the voter rolls, ensuring they are ready to participate in future elections.

Throughout the event, students engaged in thoughtful discussions about citizenship, civic responsibility, and the history of voting rights in America. Their enthusiasm and curiosity demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement and public service. The Brockton Area Branch NAACP extends its sincere appreciation to the administration, faculty, staff, and students of Brockton High School for their partnership and support. By helping young people become informed and engaged voters, we strengthen our communities and help ensure that every eligible voice has the opportunity to be heard.

The right to vote is one of the most powerful tools citizens possess. Through voter education, registration, and outreach efforts, the Brockton Area Branch NAACP remains committed to encouraging full participation in our democracy and preserving the voting rights that generations fought to secure.

Tony Branch

1st Vice President

Political Action Committee Report

The Political Action Committee continues to advance the mission of the NAACP through voter registration, voter education, civic engagement, and monitoring public policy issues affecting civil rights, voting rights, education, economic opportunity, criminal justice, healthcare access, and equal protection under the law. Consistent with the Association's bylaws, all political action activities are conducted on a nonpartisan basis and do not include endorsements of candidates for public office.

A major focus of the committee's recent work has been voter engagement. The Brockton Area Branch NAACP recently hosted a voter registration initiative at Brockton High School, resulting in 101 students registering or pre-registering to vote. Massachusetts permits eligible 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register to vote, allowing them to be automatically added to the voter rolls upon reaching age 18. Students participating in the event engaged in meaningful discussions regarding citizenship, civic responsibility, and the importance of participating in the democratic process. The committee extends its appreciation to the administration, faculty, staff, and students of Brockton High School for their cooperation and support.

The committee also monitors matters of public interest involving local government and public officials. Recently, a court reviewed a harassment prevention order involving Brockton Mayor Moises Rodrigues and a Brockton High School student. During the hearing, testimony was presented by both the student and Mayor Rodrigues regarding an interaction that occurred during a public parade. Following the hearing, the court declined to extend the harassment prevention order. Because the matter involved a minor, the student's identity has not been publicly disclosed.

Election Update

Brockton School Committee member Tony Rodrigues has announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for the 10th Plymouth District seat in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He is challenging incumbent State Representative Michelle DuBois in the September 2026 Democratic primary.

According to the Massachusetts Legislature, the 10th Plymouth District consists of portions of Brockton (Ward 4 Precincts B and C; Ward 5 Precincts B, C, and D; and all of Ward 6), Precinct 1 of East Bridgewater, and the Town of West Bridgewater.

As the election cycle progresses, voters will have the opportunity to learn more about the candidates' qualifications, experience, and positions on issues affecting the district and the Commonwealth.

Congressional Election Update

Congressman Stephen Lynch is facing a Democratic primary challenge from Patrick Roath, a Jamaica Plain attorney and former head of Massachusetts Common Cause, in the 2026 election cycle. Representative Lynch has served Massachusetts' 8th Congressional District since 2001 and is seeking reelection. Roath has announced his candidacy and is campaigning on a range of federal issues. As the election cycle progresses, voters will have the opportunity to review the candidates' qualifications, records, and positions on issues affecting the district and the nation.

The Political Action Committee will continue to monitor legislative developments, public policy initiatives, voting rights issues, and significant civic matters affecting the Brockton community and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Members are encouraged to remain informed, participate in civic affairs, and engage constructively in the democratic process.

This report is provided as part of the Political Action Committee's responsibility to inform members of matters affecting civic engagement, public policy, and local government. Information contained herein is derived from publicly available sources, court proceedings, government records, and news reports believed to be reliable at the time of publication.



The inclusion of any matter in this report does not constitute an endorsement, condemnation, legal conclusion, or official position of the Brockton Area Branch NAACP regarding any individual, allegation, organization, candidate, or court proceeding. The Branch does not adjudicate disputes or determine the merits of legal claims. Readers are encouraged to consult official records and multiple sources when evaluating matters of public interest.

Tony Branch

Chair, Political Action

This country is governed by the U.S. Constitution, which begins with the reminder "We, The People..." Not the politicians. Not the wealthy. The People. As the country celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026, the NAACP continues to fight for the rights overdue to many. 

Registration is OPEN for the 117th NAACP National Convention, July 18–22, 2026, in Chicago! Join us under the theme We The People to build pathways to justice, engage with top voices, and celebrate Black excellence.



Register now!

https://naacp.org/convention/registration?emci=217cbac3-d85a-f111-8fcb-000d3a18905c&emdi=2fa95bc8-a95b-f111-8fcb-000d3a18905c&ceid=3577511

NAACP News and Updates

• NAACP Celebrates Federal Court Ruling Striking Down Executive Order Threatening Mail-In Ballots
• NAACP Condemns Supreme Court Ruling to End Temporary Protection Status for 350,000+ Haitian Immigrants
• NAACP Applauds Sixth Circuit Decision Protecting Michigan Voter Data
• NAACP Applauds New Legal Team for Karmelo Anthony

Know Your Rights - Legal Redress Committee! 

Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live.

If you or someone you know experiences harassment, discrimination, or unfair treatment UNDERSTAND YOU HAVE RIGHTS and YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!

🏡 Your Rights in Your Neighborhood

• You have the right to live free from racial harassment or intimidation.
• You have the right to report incidents to both local police and state civil rights agencies.
• You have the right to ask police for incident numbers, reports, and next steps.

📌 What is considered harassment?

• Racial slurs or threats
• Intimidation, stalking, or targeted surveillance
• Property damage or vandalism
  

✍️ What to do when/if something occurs:

• Write down who, what, when, and where.
• Save photos, videos, texts, voicemails, and social media posts.
• Ask neighbors or bystanders for witness statements.
• Keep a timeline of events.
  

🛠️ Contact the Police

• Ask for a written incident report.
• Request the supervisor on duty.
• Report the issue to the Massachusetts Attorney General – Civil Rights Division.
  

🤝 We are Here for You



The NAACP Brockton Area Branch & surrounding areas are committed to protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of every community member. Feel free to contact President Phyllis Ellis at presidentphyllis@naacp-brocktonbranch.org or phone us at 508.587.0502

Jayme Scott

Chair, Legal Redress Committee

The Brockton Area Branch NAACP is extremely busy. If you would like to join our organization and become a member of any of the active committees, please contact: presidentphyllis@naacp-brocktonbranch.org

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Committees

• ACT-SO - The Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological & Scientific Olympics mentoring program for high school students. With ACT-SO, the NAACP is providing an instrument through which African-American youth are encouraged and inspired toward excellence in academic and cultural pursuits while benefiting from the maximum support of their communities;

• The Committee on Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs shall: (1) seek to establish a working relationship with those agencies in government, national, state and local, having the responsibility in the affairs of members of the various Armed Services and Veterans and to see that the programs to which they are responsible are administered fairly and justly to members of the minority community; (2) study conditions pertaining to veterans and members of the Military Service and their dependents and/or survivors in the community; (3) serve as a center of information on matters affecting the members of the Active Military, Reserves, State National Guard and Veterans; (4) maintain a repository of materials, information and forms to be used in assisting veterans and/or dependents of veterans and military personnel with their problems; (5) receive and act on all complaints relative to acts of discrimination on account of race, color, creed, or denial of benefits to which they are entitled because of discrimination; (6) prepare a quarterly report on committee activities to be submitted to the Executive Committee of the Unit and the National Director of Armed Services and Veterans Affairs

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• Economic Development. The Committee on Economic Development shall implement local efforts and support national programs to preserve and expand economic empowerment among African-Americans and other communities of color by: (1) researching and establishing relationships with private and public entities; (2) supporting the work of the National Office in monitoring the progress and activity of private and public entities designated by national programs; and (3) implementing local efforts to promote the growth of business ownership; (4) increasing employment and job creation; and (5) encouraging business development and home ownership.

• Education - The Committee on Education shall: (1) seek to eliminate segregation and other discriminatory. practices in public education; (2) study local educational conditions affecting minority groups; (3) investigate the public school system and school zoning; (4) familiarize itself with textbook material there from which racially derogatory; (5) seek to stimulate school attendance; (6) keep informed of school conditions and strive to correct abuses where found; (7) investigate the effects of standardized and high stakes testing practices; (8) teacher certification; (9) promote parental involvement in education; and (10) aim to be a center of popular education on the race question and on the work of the Association.

• Health - The Health Committee shall: (1) work to promote, protect and maintain the health of African Americans; (2) assess the health needs of the community; (3) advocate for equal access to health education, care, treatment and research for all Americans; (4) sponsor health-related activities such as health forums, fairs and workshops highlighting issues of importance to people of color; and (5) support health initiatives of the Association

• Housing - The Committee on Housing shall:) (1) study housing conditions in the local community; (2) receive and seek to address complaints of discrimination; (3) oppose all restrictive practices whether public or private; and (4) disseminate information and render such other assistance which may eliminate discrimination in housing.

• Legal Redress - The Legal Redress Committee shall: (1) investigate all cases reported to it; (2) supervise all litigation in which the Unit is interested; and (3) keep the National Office and the Branch informed on the progress of every case. It shall not give general legal advice.

• Membership - The NAACP Membership Committee is a standing committee within each local Branch responsible for maintaining and growing membership by planning annual campaigns, soliciting new members, securing renewals, and exploring ways to obtain life memberships. This work is essential, as a strong membership base provides the nationwide footprint and financial support necessary for the NAACP to achieve its mission of racial equality and social justice.

• Political Action - The Political Action Committee shall: (1) seek to increase registration and voting; (2) work for the enactment of municipal, state and federal legislation designed to improve the educational, political and economic status of minority groups; (3) seek the repeal of racially discriminatory legislation; (4) work to improve the administration of justice; (5) work to secure equal enforcement of the law; and (6) keep the National Office and the Unit informed of all proposed legislation which affects minority groups. The Committee shall be nonpartisan and shall not endorse candidates for public office



• WIN (Women in NAACP) WIN shall address within the framework of the NAACP, civil rights issues affecting women and children and shall carry out other civil and cultural activities to enhance membership and provide financial support to the Branch. The purpose WIN is (1) to enhance the leadership role of women; (2) to serve as an advocacy vehicle to address the social, economic, political, educational, health and welfare issues affecting women; (3) to advocate for the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual development of children and (4) to support the policies as well as the on-going mission and vision of the NAACP. 

Brockton Area Branch NAACP

PO Box 1535

Brockton, MA 02303

(781) 807-1092