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. | |
Introducing Our NAACP Summer Reading Series!
Are you a published author and a member of Fairfax NAACP? Then we want to shine a spotlight on you!
This summer, we’re kicking off a brand-new feature: the Fairfax NAACP Summer Reading Series—a celebration of the authors within our own community. We know our members are full of powerful stories, unique perspectives, and deep wisdom—and now we want to share those voices far and wide.
Here’s how to participate:
If you’ve published a book, send us the following:
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A link to where your book can be found
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A short description (up to five sentences)
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A high-quality image of your book cover
We’ll be featuring several books at a time throughout the summer in our newsletter and across our social media platforms—so stay tuned to see if your title is part of the next roundup!
Let’s lift each other up and celebrate the literary talents within our NAACP family.
Submissions can be sent directly to Communications at communications@fairfaxnaacp.org using the subject line "Fairfax NAACP Summer Reading Series."
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REMINDER: A Night at the Theatre is This Friday!
Time is running out to grab your discounted tickets for our special NAACP Night at the Theatre—this Friday, June 13!
Join us at 1st Stage in Tysons for an evening of powerful storytelling with August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson, plus a pre-show reception where you’ll connect with fellow members and learn more about this award-winning theatre.
Reception begins at 6:00 PM
Showtime: 7:30 PM
Location: 1st Stage – 1524 Spring Hill Rd, Tysons, VA 22102
Tickets are just $35 for NAACP members and guests using the promo code NAACPFAIRFAX—but they’re going fast!
Reserve your spot below or call the box office at 703-854-1856. Be sure to mention the promo code when ordering by phone.
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth with a night of art, culture, and community!
Reserve Your Tickets Below!
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WISH Center Launches Free Entrepreneurship Program
Got a business idea and need that extra push to get started? Or know someone with that spark of innovation just waiting to take off?
The Workforce Innovation Skills Hub (WISH) Center is launching a FREE entrepreneurship intensive program for emerging business owners in Fairfax County.
Led by George Mason University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, this program blends bootcamp-style learning with expert mentorship to help you develop the skills to succeed as an entrepreneur.
Informational sessions (choose one):
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Friday, June 13 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
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Saturday, June 14 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
This program is only open to residents of Fairfax County who have a desired interest in entrepreneurship and are legally authorized to work in the United States. You must attend an informational session to be eligible for the program.
*Please Note: This is not a Fairfax NAACP sponsored event*
Register Below!
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Community Wellness Workshop: Exploring the Impact of Diabetes on Heart Health
Join the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Northern Virginia Chapter on June 18, 2025, from 6:00-7:30 pm for an informative workshop on preventing prevalent diseases in our community. NCBW NOVA in partnership with the Fairfax County NAACP, presents “Protecting Your Health: Connecting Heart Health and Diabetes.” The goal of the workshop is to share information about heart disease and diabetes. Managing diabetes goes beyond focusing on blood sugar levels—you’ve got to commit to living a healthy life and staying fit. It is also very important to protect and monitor your heart health.
The guest speaker is Sharmaine McCoy, DNP, MP, INOVA Women’s Cardiovascular at Inova Schar Heart and Vascular Center.
- A light dinner will be served.
- Door prizes, Giveaways.
- Resource material provided.
You must register to attend this free event for the community, all are welcome!
Register Below!
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Fourth Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration
Presented by the Fairfax County NAACP and NOVA Parks
Saturday, June 21 | 3–5 p.m.
Bull Run Regional Park, Atlantis Waterpark
7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, VA 20121
novaparks.com/BullRunJuneteenth
We invite you to join us in honoring a powerful moment in our history at the Fourth Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration. This event marks the largest emancipation to take place prior to the Civil War—on the very grounds of what is now Bull Run Regional Park.
Together, we will honor the lives of the enslaved and their descendants through:
- Reflections on Emancipation
- Words of Remembrance and Hope
- Music to Inspire
Commemorative Program | 3-4 PM
Ice Cream Social | 4-5 PM
This gathering is more than a commemoration—it is a commitment to remembrance, community, and hope.
This event is made possible by a generous donor through the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia.
RSVP Below!
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June General Membership Meeting: A Budget Conversation with County Executive Bryan Hill
We are pleased to welcome Bryan Hill, Fairfax County Executive, as our guest speaker for the June General Membership Meeting. Mr. Hill will provide insight into the Fairfax County FY 2026 Budget, offering an overview of key priorities, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead for our community.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
7 PM
Zoom
As County Executive, Mr. Hill leads the day-to-day operations of Fairfax County’s government, serving over 1.2 million residents. His leadership is rooted in financial stewardship, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to public service. Under his guidance, Fairfax County has continued to prioritize equity through initiatives like the One Fairfax policy, ensuring all residents have a voice in the decisions that shape our county.
With a distinguished background in public administration and financial management, Mr. Hill brings a wealth of experience to his role. He is the only county manager to lead two jurisdictions of vastly different sizes—each maintaining a AAA bond rating—an achievement that speaks to his skill in managing complex, diverse communities.
We look forward to an engaging and informative discussion as Mr. Hill shares how the FY 2026 Budget will impact local services, economic development, equity initiatives, and more.
We encourage all members and community partners to attend and be part of this important conversation.
RSVP Below
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The Freedom Fund Gala Is Back – Tickets on Sale Now! Don’t Miss Out!
It’s here – the moment we’ve all been waiting for! The 2025 Freedom Fund Gala is officially on the calendar, and tickets are now on sale! This year promises to be even bigger and more impactful, with our Inaugural Sneaker Ball and our powerful theme, "The Rebirth of DEI".
Saturday, October 18, 2025
5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Tysons Corner Marriott Grand Ballroom
8028 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, VA 22182
Tickets are now available!
Last year, we sold out fast—and this year, we expect nothing less! Seats are limited, so don’t wait—secure yours before they’re gone!
PLUS—there are sponsorship opportunities and ad space available to showcase your business or support the cause. You can become a sponsor and receive exclusive recognition throughout the evening, or reserve ad space in our event program to promote your organization to our engaged audience.
This is more than just an event; it’s a movement. Join us as we come together to celebrate and advance the cause of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community.
Why You Should Attend:
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An unforgettable evening of networking, celebration, and inspiration
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Sponsorship and ad opportunities to showcase your brand
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Our first-ever Sneaker Ball – where black-tie meets bold style
We can’t wait to see you at the Gala—let’s make this the most impactful Freedom Fund Gala yet!
Get Your Tickets & Reserve Your Ad Space Today!
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May Event Highlights
May was a month of elevating voices and shaping policy through community-centered advocacy.
We opened the month with a powerful Spring Education Forum, hosted by our Education Co-Chairs, Marquis Smalls and Dr. Sujatha Hampton, engaging families, educators, and community members in critical dialogue around equity in our public schools. The event underscored the importance of inclusive curriculum, resource equity, and student-centered policies that serve all children.
Our Housing Chair, Mary Paden, continued her strong leadership and dedication by representing the branch at a public hearing on the Franconia Triangle Comprehensive Plan Amendment. Voicing Fairfax NAACP’s strong support for an affordable housing project that faced local opposition, her remarks underscored the longstanding legacy of residential segregation in Fairfax County and reminded the Board of Supervisors of its responsibility to advance equity for all residents.
We closed out May with The Black Community & Policy Impact Forum, a compelling event that brought together residents, advocates, and community leaders to explore how policy decisions at every level affect Black lives—and how we can collectively influence those outcomes.
Each event reflected our continued commitment to educating, empowering, and organizing our community toward meaningful change.
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Highlights from our Spring Education Forum
Here’s a look at our Education Forum: The Future of Education in America. Held on May 7, 2025, this interactive forum—hosted by our Education Co-Chairs Marquis Smalls and Dr. Sujatha Hampton—brought together educators, advocates, and policy leaders for a compelling conversation about advancing equity in our public schools. Watch the full video below.
Featured speakers: Levi Goren (The Commonwealth Institute), Dr. Nardos King (FCPS), and Dr. Iona Spikes (FABSE).
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Highlights from our Testimony on the Franconia Triangle Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
During a six-hour public hearing on the Franconia Triangle Comprehensive Plan Amendment, our Housing Chair, Mary Paden, delivered a passionate and compelling testimony in support of an affordable housing project that faced strong local opposition. She addressed the county’s long history of residential segregation and urged the Board of Supervisors to advance equity for all residents.
While the video is unavailable, her written testimony can be viewed below and captures the full spirit and strength of her message. The Board voted 9–0 to move the project forward—a meaningful step toward housing justice in Fairfax County.
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Highlights from our Black Community & Policy Impact Forum
Here’s a look at The Black Community & Policy Impact Forum. This powerful forum gathered community members, advocates, and public officials to examine how policy decisions—local, state, and national—directly affect Black communities. Hosted by Fairfax County NAACP, the event highlighted key issues in education, housing, economic opportunity, and justice. Watch the forum below.
| | From left to right: Virginia Watts (Virginia State Delegate), Anthony Amos (Fairfax City Council), Rozia Henson (Virginia State Delegate), Karen Keys-Gamarra (Virginia State Delegate), and Krysta Jones (Social Justice Advocate) pictured during event. The panel engaged in a thoughtful dialogue on policy and equity—answering questions from the audience and sharing insights on how to drive systemic change in our communities. | | Community members listened intently to local leaders and policy experts. The event created space for powerful questions and shared experiences on how public policy shapes the lives of Black residents in Fairfax County. | | Fairfax County NAACP First Vice President Evelyn Spain (L) and Third Vice President Les Shockley (R) served as moderators for the event, facilitating a dynamic Q&A by reading audience-submitted questions and engaging directly with attendees. | | 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. | | |
Legal Redress
If you are interested in gaining valuable experience working on civil rights issues, consider applying to be an intern with the Fairfax County NAACP Legal Redress Committee.
We are currently accepting applications for both school year and summer internships.
The Legal Redress Committee investigates discrimination complaints based on incidents that happen within Fairfax County. We provide complainants support on issues of employment, housing, education, consumer transactions, banking, racial profiling, encounters with police, and similar matters. As an intern, you would help to:
- collect information to support complainants
- find resources to help resolve complaints
- draft letters/emails on behalf of complainants
- support complainants in any meetings related to their complaints (such as EEOC hearings or school IEP meetings)
- research housing, education, employment, and criminal justice issues relevant to the committee's work
Please submit a resume and cover letter indicating your interest to: legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.com.
*Must be 18 or older to apply.* Flexible scheduling available. Please note that this is an unpaid internship opportunity.
| | 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
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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 | | | | |
