News For You

December, 2025

DECEMBER 2025

President's Message


Dear Fairfax County NAACP Members, Supporters, and Friends,


As the calendar year draws to a close, December offers us a chance for both reflection and anticipation. It is a time to look back on the progress we've made in 2025 and to strategically prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the new year.


Reflecting on a Year of Action

This year, the Fairfax County NAACP chapter has been a consistent force for positive change in our community. We have:

  • Voter Engagement: Executed our most extensive "Get Out the Vote" campaign to date, ensuring that all eligible voices were heard during local and state elections.
  • Educational Equity: Successfully partnered with the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to advocate for inclusive curriculum development and equitable disciplinary policies.
  • Community Advocacy: Hosted numerous workshops and forums addressing critical issues such as affordable housing, criminal justice reform, and economic empowerment.
  • Membership Growth: Welcomed a robust class of new members, injecting fresh energy and perspectives into our mission.

Our success is not simply measured by the number of events, but by the tangible impact we've had on the lives of Fairfax County residents. Thank you to every committee chair, volunteer, and member for your tireless dedication.


A Call to Year-End Action

While the holidays are a time for rest, our mission never takes a break. We have two critical areas where your support is needed immediately:

  1. Renew Your Membership: Your membership is the bedrock of our chapter. Please ensure your 2026 membership is renewed before January 1st to maintain our chapter's strength and your voice within the organization. You can renew online at www.fairfaxnaacp.org/membership.
  2. Year-End Giving: We are launching our final fundraising push to ensure we can hit the ground running in January. Your tax-deductible contribution directly funds our advocacy work, community programs, and local scholarships. Please consider making a generous donation before December 31st.


As we move forward into the New Year, we will continue to be the watchdog and the voice for equality and justice in our county.


I wish you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and restorative holiday season. May the spirit of giving and community guide us into a prosperous new year.


In Solidarity,

Niki Zimmerman

President, Fairfax County NAACP

Events and News

Stay engaged and connected! From community forums and advocacy efforts to social gatherings and action-driven events, the Fairfax County NAACP offers opportunities to learn, network, and make an impact. Stay informed and be part of the movement for justice and equity. Join us at our upcoming events and stay up-to-date with the latest news.


Join Us For Our Holiday Party and December General Membership Meeting



Celebrate the Season with Us! Fairfax County NAACP invites you to our Holiday Party THIS Wednesday, December 17, from 6:30–8:30 PM at the Gum Springs Community Center.


Wednesday, December 17

6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Gum Springs Community Center

8100 Fordson Rd, Alexandria, VA 22306



Join us for an evening of fellowship, light refreshments, and a little holiday fun with our Ugly Sweater Contest. This event is open to members, partners, and friends of the branch. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!


Please note: A brief general membership meeting will be held just before the celebration begins. Join us for an evening of community, celebration, and connection as we close out the year together.


******


*Also, in preparation for our General Membership Meeting, please review the past meeting minutes for October and November 2025, attached below, and be prepared to vote on them at our meeting*


October General Membership Meeting Minutes

November General Membership Meeting Minutes




RSVP BELOW

120 Days of Giving



As we move through the holiday season—a time of generosity, reflection, and care for one another—Fairfax County NAACP continues our 120 Days of Giving, a focused fundraising effort supporting the ongoing work of the branch.


Throughout this season, we remain committed to advancing our core priorities, including education, civic engagement, housing, economic justice, and environmental justice, while continuing to serve and advocate for our community.


In the spirit of giving, we will share updates on our work, engage the community, and invite you to support efforts that protect, strengthen, and uplift our community members.


This holiday season, we move forward with purpose and unity. We invite you to stand with us as we continue advancing civil rights and creating lasting impact across Fairfax County.


Join us in making an impact... give today!



Applications are Now Open for the Michelle Leete Scholarship!


This year, Fairfax County NAACP is proud to award three $1,000 scholarships and two $500 scholarships to deserving students who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to equity in our community.


We invite eligible Fairfax County students to apply and take the next step toward their educational goals. Access the application and full eligibility details using the QR code or link below.


Please share widely to help us reach students who could benefit from this opportunity.


Fairfax NAACP Winter Reading Series



Are you a published author and a member of Fairfax County NAACP? We’d love to feature your work.


As the days grow shorter and the air turns colder, there’s no better time to curl up with a powerful story—and we’re bringing back our community spotlight with the Fairfax NAACP Winter Reading Series. This season, we’re highlighting the authors within our membership whose voices, experiences, and perspectives deserve to be shared.


Here’s how to participate:

If you’ve published a book, please send:


• A link to where your book can be found

• A short description (up to five sentences)

• A high-quality image of your book cover


We’ll feature several titles at a time in our newsletter and across our social media platforms throughout the winter.


Let’s continue to uplift one another and celebrate the literary talent within our NAACP family.


Submissions can be sent to Communications at communications@fairfaxnaacp.org, using the subject line: “Fairfax NAACP Winter Reading Series.”.


Introducing Our Winter Reading Series

Uplifting the Stories and Voices of Our NAACP Membership



This month, we’re launching the Fairfax County NAACP Winter Reading Series, a new effort to highlight the talented authors within our membership—voices that deepen our understanding, strengthen our community, and ensure our stories continue to be told.


We’re kicking things off with our first featured titles of the season—perfect reads for the colder months. More selections will follow throughout the winter.





Rooted, by Michell F. Pulliam


Rooted is both a memoir and an act of remembering. It's a journey into stolen history and the resilience of women who refused to be forgotten. Tracing her maternal line back 44,000 years to East Africa, Michell Pulliam uncovers a lineage that transforms her understanding of identity and belonging. This story speaks to anyone seeking to know where they come from—and who they truly are.

From Pugwash to Putin, by Gerson Sher


From the first scientific exchanges of the Cold War years through the years following the fall of the Soviet Union, Dr. Gerson S. Sher provides a sweeping and critical history of what happens when science is used as a foreign policy tool. Sher, a former manager of these cooperative programs, provides a detailed and critical assessment of what worked, what didn't, and why it matters.

Join the NAACP Virginia State Conference for the 2026 Pre-Legislative Session and Legislative Advocacy Day



Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Deadline to Register: Monday, January 12, 2026

Registration Fee: $15

Pre-Legislative Briefing (Virtual): Sunday, January 11, 2026 • 6:00 pm (sign up below)


Join the NAACP Virginia State Conference in Richmond as we engage directly


in the 2026 Legislative Session:

  • Meet with Legislators
  • Attend Committee Meetings
  • Sit in the Galleries during Floor Proceedings


Our Legislative Priorities


We reaffirm our mission to secure justice, equity, and opportunity for Black Virginians. This year, we are advancing bold policies in:


Voting Rights – Protecting and expanding access to the ballot

Education – Equitable resources for every student

Health Care – Affordable, accessible, quality care

Economic Justice – Fair wages, worker protections,

Environmental Protection – Safeguarding communities from harm


Why It Matters

Change requires more than reform - demands courageous leadership and sustained advocacy. Together, we will dismantle barriers, empower communities, and ensure every voice is heard.


Join us. Stand for equity. Advance justice.




Reaffirming its mission to secure justice, equity, and opportunity for Black

Virginians. This year, the organization is focused on advancing our Legislative Policies: 

  • Voting Rights – Protecting and expanding access to the ballot
  • Education – Equitable resources for every student
  • Health Care – Affordable, accessible, quality care
  • Economic Justice – Fair wages, worker protections,
  • Environmental ProtectionSafeguarding communities from harm




High School Seniors: Share Your Voice Through the E.B. Henderson Essay Contest

The Washington Wizards, alongside INROADS, the Monumental Sports & Entertainment Foundation, and the Leonsis family, are inviting high school seniors in the DMV and Baltimore area to participate in their annual essay contest. This contest honors Dr. Edwin Bancroft Henderson, a pioneer in athletics in D.C., and offers students a chance to reflect on his legacy while showcasing their writing and ideas.


Event Highlights Recap

November Event Highlights


In November, Fairfax County NAACP was proud to serve our community through hands-on volunteerism during the Thanksgiving season.


On November 22, branch leadership and members volunteered with NOVA Giving Back at their Thanksgiving Meal Assembly, helping prepare meals for families across our region.


Earlier in the month, on November 20, branch leadership supported the Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner Program hosted by the American Turkish Friendship Association, strengthening relationships and continuing our commitment to service and community care.


These efforts reflect the heart of our mission—showing up, giving back, and standing with our neighbors, especially during times when support matters most.


Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and energy to make our November outreach efforts meaningful and impactful!


Highlights from the NOVA Giving Back–Thanksgiving Meal Assembly,


The Fairfax County Branch NAACP volunteered to pack Thanksgiving baskets with NOVA Project Giveback and other community organizations. We were honored to be a Bronze Sponsor in NOVA Project Giveback 15th year of service. Check out some of the highlights below.

Branch leadership paused for a photo while volunteering in service to the community. From left to right: PAC Chair Lenior Simmons, Assistant Treasurer Dr. Monique Norwood, Branch President Niki Zimmerman, Freedom Fund Gala Chair DeShane Jones, and Interim Religious Affairs Chair Pat Jackson.



Highlights from American Turkish Friendship Foundation's Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner Program



The gathering brought together representatives from more than 40 faith, business, and community organizations for a meaningful evening centered on gratitude, fellowship, and shared values. ATFA Executive Director Hakan Atasever, welcomed participants and expressed gratitude for the Fairfax NAACP's involvement. 

Fairfax NAACP’s Third Vice President Les Shockley (L), Interfaith Coordinator with Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Lyndzey Elliott (C), and Religious Affairs Interim Chair Pat Jackson (R) at the AFTA Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner

Be the Change

Looking for ways to make a difference? Fairfax NAACP is seeking passionate individuals to join our committees and internship programs. Whether you’re interested in advocacy, education, or community engagement, there’s a place for you to contribute and grow. Get involved today and help drive meaningful change!

Membership Committee


Help Us Grow Our Movement!


The strength of the NAACP lies in its members, and we need your help to expand our reach! The Fairfax NAACP Membership Committee is looking for volunteers and interns to engage our community, recruit new members, and ensure our branch remains strong and active. If you love connecting with people and want to make an impact, this is your chance!


Sign up today and be a part of something bigger! Fill out the following form here to get started.



membership@fairfaxnaacp.org


Please note that this is an unpaid internship opportunity.



Communications Committee


Use Your Voice to Amplify Ours!


Are you skilled in writing, social media, design or marketing? The Fairfax NAACP Communications Committee needs volunteers and interns to help spread our message, engage the community, and promote our initiatives. If you have experience in PR, graphic design, or digital media—or just a passion for storytelling—we want to hear from you!


Help us shape the narrative. Volunteer today! Fill out the following form here to get started.


communications@fairfaxnaacp.org


Please note that this is an unpaid internship opportunity.



Budget Committee


Passionate About Numbers? Help Us Make an Impact!


The Fairfax NAACP Budget Committee is looking for dedicated interns and volunteers to help manage resources that fuel our mission. If you have experience in finance, budgeting, or just love working with numbers, we need you! Join us in ensuring our branch stays financially strong and ready to fight for justice.


Sign up today and be a part of meaningful change! Fill out the following form here to get started.


budget@fairfaxnaacp.org


Please note that this is an unpaid internship opportunity.




Criminal Justice Committee


Fight for Fairness in the Justice System!


Do you believe in criminal justice reform? The Fairfax NAACP Criminal Justice Committee is looking for interns and volunteers to advocate for policies that ensure fairness, equity, and accountability in policing and the legal system. Whether you’re passionate about policy change, community outreach, or advocacy, your voice is needed!


Get involved and help us create a more just system! Fill out the following form here to get started.


justice@fairfaxnaacp.org


Please note that this is an unpaid internship opportunity.



Legal Redress Committee


Use Your Legal Expertise for Justice!


Are you passionate about civil rights and ensuring justice is served? The Fairfax NAACP Legal Redress Committee is seeking volunteers to help address discrimination complaints and advocate for those in need. Your help can make a real difference to those who have experienced discrimination. No prior legal experience is required.


Join us in the fight for justice—volunteer today! Fill out the following form here to get started.


legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.org




Internship Opportunities

At Fairfax NAACP, we believe in fostering the next generation of leaders who are passionate about justice, equity, and advocacy. Our internship program offers valuable hands-on experience in nonprofit work, advocacy initiatives, and community engagement. Join us in making a meaningful impact while gaining practical skills and insight into the work that drives social change.

There are no new internship opportunities this month, but we remain committed to creating opportunities that inspire and empower young leaders. Stay connected for future announcements.

Member Spotlight

Welcome to our Member Spotlight! Each month, we’ll be shining a light on one of our amazing members who embodies the spirit of our community.


Our Member Spotlight will return next month




Maintain Your Membership

A friendly reminder to those who pay annual membership dues to belong to the NAACP:  


We rely on those dues payments to help us meet our financial obligations, both at the local, state, and national level. Your contributions and engagement are important to us. Please take a moment to check your membership card and see if it’s time to make your dues contribution.


Payment is simple. The following link will bring you to our Fairfax County NAACP web site, where you can update your membership information and then pay via PayPal. Please also consider making a donation when you remit your dues payment.


We very much appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to engaging with you.


For questions about your membership dues, please contact our Branch Secretary Mike O'Brien at secretary@fairfaxnaacp.org.






Get Involved


Volunteer & Become a Member


Join us in the fight for justice and equity! Whether you have time to volunteer, want to engage in advocacy, or simply wish to stay informed, becoming a member of the Fairfax County NAACP is the first step. Your voice and effort can help create meaningful change in our community.

Donate


Your support fuels our work. Contributions to the Fairfax County NAACP help fund critical programs, advocacy efforts, and community initiatives that advance racial and social justice. Every donation—big or small—makes a difference.

Fairfax NAACP Executive Committee

Officers:


President

Niki Zimmerman

president@fairfaxnaacp.org


First Vice President

Evelyn Spain

1stvp@fairfaxnaacp.org


Second Vice President   

Dr. Sujatha Hampton

2ndvp@fairfaxnaacp.org


Third Vice President

Les Shockley   

3rdvp@fairfaxnaacp.org


Secretary

Michael J. O'Brien

secretary@fairfaxnaacp.org


Assistant Secretary

Rachel Luckenbaugh

secretary@fairfaxnaacp.org


Treasurer

Erica Scott

treasurer@fairfaxnaacp.org


Assistant Treasurer

Dr. Monique Norwood

treasurer@fairfaxnaacp.org



At-Large Members:


Meredyth Havasy

Lenior Simmons

Karen Campblin

Dr. Gerson S. Sher

Jasmine Carr

Marvin Powell

Darrell Allen

Anthony Amos

Debra Graves

Anthony Walker

Committee Chairs:


ACT-SO

Jaelin N. Mitchell and Nico Climaco

ACT-SO@fairfaxnaacp.org


Armed Services and Veterans Affairs

veterans@fairfaxnaacp.org


Budget

Les Shockley

budget@fairfaxnaacp.org


Communications | Press and Publicity

Michell Pulliam

communications@fairfaxnaacp.org


Criminal Justice

Pratik Kharat and Matthew Sowd

justice@fairfaxnaacp.org


Economic Development

economicdev@fairfaxnaacp.org


Education

Dr. Sujatha Hampton and Marquis Smalls

education@fairfaxnaacp.org


Environmental and Climate Justice

environment@fairfaxnaacp.org


Fair and Affordable Housing

Mary Paden

housing@fairfaxnaacp.org


Freedom Fund (Fundraising)

Evelyn Spain

freedomfund@fairfaxnaacp.org


Health

health@fairfaxnaacp.org


Legal Redress

Meredyth Havasy

legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.org


Membership

Jasmine Carr and Jesse Ernest

membership@fairfaxnaacp.org


Political Action

Lenior Simmons

politicalaction@fairfaxnaacp.org


Religious Affairs

Pat Jackson and Pam Dister

religiousaffairs@fairfaxnaacp.org


Scholarship

Darrell Allen and Tara Smalls

scholarship@fairfaxnaacp.org


Women in NAACP (WIN)

win@fairfaxnaacp.org


Youth Works Advisor

Anita Gill-Anderson

youthcouncil@fairfaxnaacp.org






Fairfax County NAACP

www.fairfaxnaacp.org | communications@fairfaxnaacp.org

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