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March, 2025

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MARCH 2025

Championing Women's Rights and Equal Opportunities


As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s important to reflect on the incredible contributions women have made to our society, both historically and today. Yet, the fight for true equity continues. Women, particularly women of color, still face systemic barriers that hinder their full participation and advancement in nearly every sector of society.


At the Fairfax NAACP, we remain committed to advocating for policies and practices that promote equity, justice, and inclusion for all women. Whether it’s closing the gender pay gap, ensuring access to healthcare, or dismantling the societal and systemic barriers that continue to oppress, we know that true progress can only be achieved when women, in all their diversity, are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.


This month, let us honor the legacy of the women who have paved the way, while renewing our collective commitment to creating a future where all women have the opportunity to thrive.


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.

Fairfax NAACP March General Membership Meeting – Special Guest Speakers



In honor of Women’s History Month, we are honored to present, at our General Membership Meeting on Tuesday, March 25, In Her Footsteps: Remembering Rosa Parks Through Family Memories, a powerful discussion on the personal legacy of Rosa Parks. Carolyn Williamson Green, Rosa Parks’ cousin and former caretaker, will be interviewed by her granddaughter, Jasmine Carr, Co-Chair of the Fairfax NAACP Membership Committee.


Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Via Zoom

7:00 PM


Together, they will share heartfelt stories about Ms. Parks' life, activism, and the sacrifices she made in the fight for justice.


This conversation will offer a rare glimpse into the woman behind the movement and highlight the importance of family narratives in preserving history.



Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of one of the most influential figures in the Civil Rights Movement.



RSVP Below!



RSVP HERE

Join Us for the Women’s History Month Breakfast


The Fairfax County Commission for Women and the Fairfax County NAACP invite you to celebrate Women’s History Month at the Women’s History Month Breakfast on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at The River View, 9751 Ox Road, Lorton, VA.


The theme of this year’s event is "Moving Forward Together: Women Educating & Inspiring Generations"—a gathering dedicated to honoring the contributions of women and girls in our community.


Please bring unopened feminine hygiene products to donate, supporting those in need. We look forward to an inspiring morning filled with meaningful conversations, networking, and celebration!


We hope you will join us as we celebrate the achievements and future of women and girls in Fairfax County!



Register Below!



REGISTER HERE

Employment Resource Fair to Support Those Affected by Federal Downsizing


The Fairfax County Interfaith Association (FCIA) is hosting an Employment Resource Fair on Saturday, March 23, from 12:30–2:30 p.m. at Mount Olive Baptist Church. This event is designed to provide valuable resources and support to individuals impacted by the recent downsizing of the federal government.


Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with employment specialists, receive job search assistance, and explore career opportunities. Whether you are seeking new employment, career transition guidance, or professional development resources, this fair aims to help you take the next step forward.


You're encouraged to take advantage of this vital community resource.



*This is not a Fairfax NAACP event*




Register Below!



REGISTER HERE

Honoring “The Enslaved 16”: A Historic Marker Dedication


The Historical Marker Unveiling and Dedication honoring The Enslaved 16 is a significant event recognizing the lives and contributions of enslaved individuals whose stories have long been overlooked. As part of the Fairfax County Black/African American Historical Markers Project, this dedication serves as a powerful reminder of our shared history and the importance of remembrance.


Saturday, April 5, 2025

11:00 AM

West Springfield High School

6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA


Join Fairfax County leaders, community members, and the students and staff of West Springfield High School as they come together to reflect on our shared history and honor those who came before us. Your presence will reinforce our collective commitment to truth, remembrance, and justice.



*This is not a Fairfax NAACP event*




RSVP Below!



RSVP HERE

Updated 2025 Advocacy Agenda


The 2025 Advocacy Agenda has been updated and is now available for review. This agenda outlines the key issues and priorities we will focus on this year to ensure positive change and progress in our community.


We encourage everyone to review the updated agenda to stay informed on the critical work ahead.



To learn more about our advocacy efforts and the specific goals we are working toward in 2025, please visit the link below:


VIEW HERE

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 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!

membership@fairfaxnaacp.org





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 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!

communications@fairfaxnaacp.org





Budget Committee


Passionate About Numbers? Help Us Make an Impact!

The Fairfax NAACP Budget Committee is looking for dedicated 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!

budget@fairfaxnaacp.org




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 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!

justice@fairfaxnaacp.org





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 with legal knowledge to help address discrimination cases and advocate for those in need. Whether you’re a lawyer, law student, or just someone eager to learn, your help can make a real difference.


Join us in the fight for justice—volunteer today!

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.

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.



Event Highlights Recap

Our branch hit the ground running in 2025, from our engaging Community Conversation to the exciting rollout of our 2025 Advocacy Agenda, to celebrating Black History Month with a powerful event. We also had the privilege of hosting an in-depth discussion with the authors of Desegregation in Northern Virginia Libraries during our February General Membership meeting (which can be viewed on our YouTube channel here). As we continue to advocate for justice and equality, please take a moment to reflect on the events we’ve held so far this year.

2025 Advocacy Agenda Rollout


Here’s a look at our 2025 Advocacy Agenda Rollout. Thank you to everyone who joined us. These moments capture our commitment to advancing key priorities and driving change in our community. Stay connected and engaged as we continue this important work together.

Housing Chair Mary Paden

Les Shockley, Budget Chair and 3rd VP

Guests in attendance

Black History Month Celebration


Our Black History Month Gospel Explosion was a powerful celebration of faith, culture, and history. With uplifting music from the choir and an inspiring message from our guest speaker, the event honored the legacy and spirit of the Black community. Thank you to all who joined us for this special occasion!

Harvest Assembly Baptist Church

Fairfax NAACP President Niki Zimmerman (L) presents guest speaker Leslie Houston (C) with an award as National Education Association Director Kevin Hickerson (R) looks on.

Bishop Johnnie Abrams, pastor of Harvest Assembly Church, stands with his wife.

Transit Equity Day


In partnership with NOVA Parks and the NAACP Virginia State Conference, we commemorated Transit Equity Day by honoring Caroline Ware and the four Howard University women who courageously challenged bus segregation. This event recognized their contributions to the fight for equal transportation access and their lasting impact on the Civil Rights Movement. Thank you to all who joined us in remembering and celebrating this important history.

Officials from NOVA Parks, the Fairfax County NAACP, and community leaders unveiled a sign at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens honoring Howard University students who challenged bus segregation.

(Left to right): Rev. Cozy Bailey, NAACP Virginia State Conference President; Jasmine Carr, Fairfax NAACP Membership Co-Chair; Karen Campblin, Region 3 Vice President & Environmental and Climate Justice Chair for the Virginia NAACP; and Mike O’Brien, Secretary, Fairfax NAACP.

(Left to right): Jasmine Carr, Karen Campblin, and Dr. Vernon Walton, pastor of First Baptist Church of Vienna.

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.

Become a Member Today!

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.

Visit our Website

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

Mary Paden

Lenior Simmons

Karen Campblin

Dr. Gerson S. Sher

Jasmine Carr

Marvin Powell

Darrell Allen

Anthony Amos

Debra Graves

Anthony Brown


Committee Chairs:


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

justice@fairfaxnaacp.org


Economic Development

economicdev@fairfaxnaacp.org


Education

Dr. Sujatha Hampton

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

Eliza Selander and Pam Dister

religiousaffairs@fairfaxnaacp.org


Women in NAACP (WIN)

win@fairfaxnaacp.org


Young Adult

Jaelin N. Mitchell and Nico Climaco

youngadult@fairfaxnaacp.org


Youth Works Advisor

Anita Gill-Anderson

youthcouncil@fairfaxnaacp.org







Fairfax County NAACP

www.fairfaxnaacp.org | communications@fairfaxnaacp.org

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