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. | | |
Reflecting on 250 Years of Progress and Purpose
As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, we recognize that America’s story is one of both remarkable progress and unfinished work. Our history reminds us that the freedoms and rights so many enjoy today were secured through the courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of generations who refused to accept injustice.
This milestone is more than a celebration of our nation’s founding. It is an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing work of building a more just and equitable society, one where the promises of liberty, equality, and opportunity are fully realized for every person. While we honor the progress that has been made, we also reaffirm our commitment to the work that still lies ahead.
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July General Membership Meeting.
Diversion First: Building Healthier Communities
When someone is experiencing a behavioral health crisis, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Understanding the services available for ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors can help connect people to the right care while reducing unnecessary arrests, incarceration, and involvement with the criminal justice system.
Join the Fairfax County NAACP on Tuesday, July 28, at 7:00 p.m. for a General Membership Meeting featuring Lisa Potter, Director of Diversion Initiatives for Fairfax County, and Laura Maddock, Acute Services Director for the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board.
This presentation will provide an overview of Diversion First, Fairfax County's collaborative approach to connecting individuals with mental illness, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities to treatment and support instead of jail whenever appropriate. Participants will learn about the continuum of diversion services that provide alternatives at multiple points along the criminal justice system, with a special focus on crisis response and how to access community resources, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Mobile Crisis Units (staffed by behavioral health professionals), and Co-Responder Units, which pair behavioral health clinicians with law enforcement officers.
Whether you are a family member, community leader, advocate, or simply want to better understand the resources available in Fairfax County, this discussion will provide valuable information about how our community is responding to behavioral health crises with care and collaboration.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn how Fairfax County is working to help individuals receive the care they need, when and where they need it most.
Register Below!
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Moving from Conversation to Action: A Call to Action for Fairfax County Public Schools
The conversations sparked by our recent Superintendent’s Forum and subsequent media coverage have underscored the need for meaningful, lasting change in how discrimination complaints are handled within Fairfax County Public Schools.
In response, the Fairfax County NAACP has developed a strategic call to action outlining recommendations to strengthen transparency, accountability, and the complaint process for students and families.
We encourage you to read the full Call to Action and join us in advocating for policies that promote trust, fairness, and a safe, supportive learning environment for every student.
Read the full Call to Action below.
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Roland Martin to Keynote 2026 Freedom Fund Masquerade Ball
The Fairfax County NAACP is proud to announce that acclaimed journalist, media personality, and political commentator Roland Martin will serve as the keynote speaker for our 2026 Freedom Fund Masquerade Ball.
An award-winning journalist, political commentator, and media entrepreneur known for his fearless reporting and unapologetic voice on issues impacting the Black community. He is the host and managing editor of Roland Martin Unfiltered, the #1 Black-owned digital news show in America, and has spent decades amplifying stories centered on civil rights, politics, culture, and social justice. Throughout his distinguished career, Martin has appeared on major national networks including CNN and TV One, earning widespread recognition for his insightful commentary and commitment to truth and accountability.
Join us on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park for an unforgettable evening of elegance, inspiration, and purpose. The Freedom Fund Gala is more than a celebration, it's an opportunity to invest in the Fairfax County NAACP’s ongoing work to advance civil rights, promote equity, and strengthen our community.
Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, advertising packages, and vendor spaces are available now. Last year’s gala sold out quickly, and we anticipate another full house this year.
Reserve your seat today and be part of an unforgettable evening of purpose, celebration, and impact.
| | Member & Community Spotlight | | Welcome to our Member & Community Spotlight, a recurring feature that celebrates the people and organizations helping to build a stronger, more equitable Fairfax County. Each month, we’ll highlight a Fairfax County NAACP member or community supporter whose leadership, service, generosity, or partnership is making a meaningful impact. Their stories remind us that lasting change happens when individuals and communities come together in pursuit of justice, opportunity, and progress. | |
Community Spotlight: Camdyn Parker and Rock + Stone
This month, we are proud to spotlight Girl Scout Camdyn Parker and Rock + Stone for their shared commitment to preserving local Black history.
At the historic African American cemetery at Bull Run Regional Park—where the Fairfax County NAACP and our co-sponsor, NOVA Parks, recently hosted our Fifth Annual Juneteenth Commemoration—Camdyn successfully completed her Girl Scout Gold Award project, From Forgotten Ground to Sacred Space. Her project created a pathway that allows visitors to navigate the cemetery with greater care and respect while honoring the lives and legacy of those buried there.
To help bring that vision to life, Rock + Stone generously donated and delivered the stone, vegetation barrier materials, and edging needed for the pathway.
We are grateful to Camdyn Parker for her vision and leadership, and to Rock + Stone for its generosity and community support. Together, they are helping preserve this important historic site so its history can continue to educate and inspire future generations.
| | Camdyn Parker at our Juneteenth event | | Before construction of path | |  | | | |
June Event Highlights
In June, the Fairfax County NAACP continued to build momentum through scholarship, community celebration, education, and advocacy. Throughout the month, we honored student achievement, celebrated freedom and history, elevated important conversations about educational equity, and equipped members with knowledge about the rapidly evolving role of technology in our society.
On June 6, the Fairfax County NAACP celebrated the recipients of the Michelle Leete Scholarship at the annual Michelle Leete Scholarship Awards Breakfast. Named in honor of our beloved former president and lifelong civil rights advocate, the scholarship recognizes outstanding students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to serving their communities. Congratulations to this year’s recipients:
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Emily Martineau — $1,000
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Noah Isirimah — $1,000
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Amara G. Orakwue — $1,000
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Cameron M. Thorpe — $500
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Camdyn Parker — $500
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Sovay A. Reid — $500
On June 13, the Fairfax County NAACP, in partnership with NOVA Parks, hosted its Fifth Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration at Bull Run Regional Park. The event brought together families, community organizations, and local leaders to celebrate freedom, honor the legacy of those who came before us, and reflect on the continuing pursuit of justice and equality. Throughout the month, the branch also proudly participated in Juneteenth celebrations hosted by the Gum Springs Community Center and First Baptist Church of Vienna, strengthening community partnerships while commemorating this important chapter in our nation’s history.
On June 18, the Fairfax County NAACP hosted its FCPS Superintendent’s Forum with Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. The forum provided students, parents, educators, and community members an opportunity to openly discuss concerns surrounding racial discrimination and inequities within FCPS. The conversation generated significant community engagement and received both local and national media attention. In response to the issues raised during the forum, the branch developed a comprehensive four-part strategic plan outlining recommendations to strengthen accountability, improve reporting processes, expand staff training, and ensure safer, more inclusive learning environments for every student.
On June 20, the Fairfax County NAACP’s Political Action Committee (PAC) participated in the 2026 Gum Springs Community Day at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park by hosting a voter registration and education table. The annual event, hosted by the New Gum Springs Civic Association and community partners, celebrated Juneteenth while honoring the life and legacy of Mattie L. Pattimore. Through voter education and engagement, the PAC continued its commitment to empowering residents and encouraging civic participation throughout our community.
At our June 23 General Membership Meeting, members welcomed Dr. Nicol Turner Lee, Senior Fellow in Governance Studies and Director of the Center for Technology Innovation at the Brookings Institution. A nationally recognized expert on technology policy, digital equity, and artificial intelligence, Dr. Turner Lee shared valuable insights into the growing influence of AI, the digital divide, broadband access, internet governance, and the role technology plays in shaping civic engagement, economic opportunity, and the criminal justice system. Her presentation encouraged thoughtful discussion about how emerging technologies are transforming our communities and the importance of ensuring equitable access for all.
June’s events reflected the Fairfax County NAACP’s ongoing commitment to empowering our community through education, advocacy, partnership, and civic engagement. Whether celebrating student success, honoring Juneteenth, advancing educational equity, or exploring the future of technology, we remain steadfast in our mission to secure political, educational, social, and economic equality for all.
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Highlights from the Branch's Michelle Leete Scholarship Awards Breakfast
Take a look at moments from this year’s celebration honoring the outstanding student recipients of the Fairfax County NAACP’s Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship and their academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to their communities.
| | Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid joins Fairfax County NAACP President Niki Zimmerman, Scholarship Committee Chair Darrell Allen II and 2026 Michelle Leete Scholarship recipients during the Michelle Leete Scholarship Celebration Brunch in Alexandria. | | Six graduating seniors are recognized as recipients of the 2026 Michelle Leete Scholarship during the Fairfax County NAACP’s annual scholarship celebration. | | FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid addresses the crowd. | | Fairfax NAACP Scholarship Committee Chair, Darrell Allen II, addresses the audience. | | |
Highlights from the Fifth Annual Bull Run Commemoration
A look back at this year’s Juneteenth celebration as the Fairfax County NAACP and NOVA Parks joined the community in honoring freedom, history, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
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Featured on Fairfax Public Access Channel 10
Watch interviews from our Fifth Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration as participants share their reflections on the significance of Juneteenth and what the celebration means to our community.
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Highlights from the Fairfax NAACP Superintendent's Forum
Below are a few highlights from the Fairfax County NAACP’s Superintendent’s Forum with FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, where students, parents, educators, and community members engaged in an important conversation about educational equity and student experiences.
| | From left to right: Moderator, Chris McMillan; FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid; Moderator, Dr. Elena Walker; Fairfax County NAACP Education Chair Dr. Iris Hunter; and Fairfax County NAACP President Niki Zimmerman. | | Community members, parents, educators, and advocates attend the Superintendent’s Forum, engaging in a meaningful dialogue on issues impacting Fairfax County Public Schools. | | FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid responds to questions during the Superintendent’s Forum as moderators guide the conversation with community members. | | |
Watch the Superintendent’s Forum:
If you missed our June 18 Superintendent’s Forum or would like to revisit the conversation, you can watch the full recording below.
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Gum Springs Community Day
Some highlights from the Fairfax County NAACP PAC’s participation in the 2026 Gum Springs Community Day, where volunteers provided voter registration and education resources while celebrating Juneteenth and engaging with the community.
| | Fairfax County NAACP Political Action Committee Chair Lenoir Simmons and Branch President Niki Zimmerman staffed the Branch’s voter registration and education table, engaging with community members during the 2026 Gum Springs Community Day. | | |
Highlights from Our June General Membership Meeting
Dr. Nicol Turner Lee, Senior Fellow in Governance Studies and Director of the Center for Technology Innovation at the Brookings Institution, shared an insightful presentation on artificial intelligence, digital equity, and the future of technology. Her full presentation can be viewed below beginning at timestamp 53:16.
| | 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
| | 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. | | |
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.
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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.
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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 | | | | |
