News For You

March 2026

MARCH 2026

A Message from the President: Marching Toward Equity


Greetings, NAACP Fairfax County Branch Family,


As we step into March, we find ourselves at a powerful intersection of reflection and action. We transition from the profound celebrations of Black History Month into Women’s History Month, reminding us that the fight for civil rights has always been fueled by the brilliance, resilience, and leadership of women, many of whom have led from the shadows for far too long.


Honoring the Women in Our Lives


This month, I invite you to reflect on a vital question: How can we individually honor the women in our families and communities? Beyond the history books, the backbone of our progress is found in the mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and mentors who advocate for us every day. We honor them by:


Listening to their stories: Taking the time to document and preserve the oral histories of the women in our own lineages.


Supporting their leadership: Showing up for woman-led initiatives and businesses right here in Fairfax County.


Advocating for their well-being: Ensuring that our pursuit of equity always includes a focus on maternal health, equal pay, and safety for Black women.


Looking to Our Leaders: Diane Nash

When we look for motivation in the civil rights space, we need look no further than Diane Nash. A fearless strategist and founding member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), Nash was a primary force behind the Freedom Rides and the Selma Voting Rights Movement.


When others hesitated, Nash pushed forward, famously saying, "We will not stop. We are coming to Montgomery." Her brilliance reminds us that leadership isn't just about a title; it’s about the courage to stay the course when the road is difficult.


A Call to Action


Our strength lies in our membership. I encourage each of you to:

Attend our General Membership Meeting this month to stay informed on local redistricting and education updates.


Invite a friend or neighbor to join the NAACP. The larger our numbers, the louder our collective voice.


Stay Engaged: Follow our social media channels for real-time updates on local actions and volunteer opportunities.


We do not do this work because it is easy; we do it because it is necessary. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to justice and for the trust you place in me to lead this incredible branch.


Forward Together,

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.

Celebrating Women's History Month



For Women’s History Month, the Fairfax County NAACP honors the women whose courage, leadership, and determination have strengthened the fight for civil rights and justice.


The legacy of women in the NAACP runs deep. Leaders like Ida B. Wells, a fearless journalist who exposed the horrors of lynching, and Mary White Ovington, one of the organization’s founding members, helped lay the groundwork for a movement that continues to challenge injustice and expand opportunity.


That legacy continues today through the many women who lead, serve, and advocate within the Fairfax County NAACP and across our community. Their voices, vision, and commitment strengthen our work and remind us that progress is driven by those willing to stand up, speak out, and build pathways for the next generation.


This month, we celebrate the women who came before us, those leading today, and the young women who will carry this work forward.


 

(IMPORTANT UPDATE! NEW DATE!)


Fairfax NAACP Night at the Theatre – New Date Announced!



We’re excited to invite Fairfax County NAACP members and their guests to join us for our rescheduled Night at the Theatre at 1st Stage (1524 Spring Hill Rd Tysons, VA 22102). Enjoy discounted tickets to “Between Riverside and Crazy” by Stephen Adly Guirgis, directed by José Carrasquillo.


Fairfax Night: Saturday, March 14, 2026

Pre-show Reception: 1:00 PM (complimentary, with personal greeting from 1st Stage)

Performance: 2:00 PM

Discounted Ticket Price: $35 with promo code NAACPFAIRFAX


Winner of the 2015 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, this gripping story follows ex-cop and recent widower Walter “Pops” Washington and his newly paroled son, Junior, as they navigate life between Riverside and crazy. With the NYPD, landlords, and church on his back, Pops must confront old wounds, challenging houseguests, and one final ultimatum to hold on to his rent-stabilized apartment.


“…wonderful…a genuine original, that deserves to be seen….” — Newsday (NY)


Reserve Your Tickets: Use promo code NAACPFAIRFAX at 1ststage.org or call the box office at 703-854-1856 by March 9 to secure your seats!


Don’t miss this special opportunity to join us for a pre-show reception, meet the team at 1st Stage, and enjoy a memorable afternoon of award-winning theatre!




Purchase Tickets Below





Holding On to Home: A Community Conversation on Housing in Fairfax County



Following the performance of “Between Riverside and Crazy”, the Fairfax County NAACP invites attendees to stay for a brief community conversation on housing insecurity in Fairfax County, hosted by Fair and Affordable Housing Committee Chair Mary Paden.


Although Virginia does not have rent control, many residents across the county face unstable or insecure housing. With a severe shortage of homes affordable to families earning less than half of the area’s median income, many households spend 50 percent or more of their income on rent, leaving little room for unexpected expenses and increasing the risk of displacement or eviction. Rising housing costs are also affecting young professionals and seniors throughout the region.


Having advocated for affordable housing in Fairfax County for the past decade, Paden will share insights into the local housing landscape and discuss the work advocates are doing to address the issue. Raised in Detroit, where urban renewal and highway construction decimated many neighborhoods, Paden brings both personal perspective and professional experience to this important conversation. She holds a BA from the University of Detroit and an MS from the University of Michigan, and has worked as an editorial director and publications coordinator at research institutions.

March General Membership Meeting



The Fairfax County NAACP will welcome Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill as the guest speaker for our upcoming March General Membership Meeting on Tuesday, March 25, at a special start time of 6:00 PM.


Hill serves as the chief administrative officer for Fairfax County, overseeing government operations for more than 1.2 million residents and helping implement the priorities of the Board of Supervisors. A nationally recognized public sector leader, he has guided major strategic initiatives for the county and is widely respected for his leadership in public administration and fiscal stewardship. Hill is also the only county manager to have led two diverse jurisdictions that achieved and maintained AAA bond ratings while serving populations of vastly different sizes, and he has been named one of the Top 50 Most Influential People in Northern Virginia.


Members and guests will have the opportunity to hear directly from Hill about the priorities shaping Fairfax County and the work underway to serve one of the most diverse communities in the nation.


We encourage all members and community partners to join us for this important conversation.




RSVP BELOW




2026 Women's History Month Breakfast



The Fairfax County NAACP, in partnership with the Fairfax County Commission for Women, invites you to attend the 2026 Women’s History Month Breakfast, a special morning celebrating the leadership and impact of women across our community.


This year’s theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” honors the vision, strength, and contributions of women who continue to shape a more equitable and sustainable future for Fairfax County.


Friday, March 27, 2026

8:30 – 11:00 a.m.


The River View at Occoquan

9751 Ox Road

Lorton, VA 22079


Community members are encouraged to join us for this meaningful gathering recognizing the women who lead, serve, and help move our communities forward.


In support of local needs, attendees are encouraged to bring unopened feminine hygiene products to donate during the event.


For more information contact:

Alexandra Hernandez: alexandria.hernandez@fairfaxcounty.gov



Register BELOW

Fairfax NAACP Stands With Virginia State Conference on Voting Rights



The Fairfax County NAACP Branch stands with the NAACP Virginia State Conference in calling out deceptive tactics aimed at undermining Black voter participation. The branch supports voting yes on the Redistricting Referendum, which is essential for protecting the voting power of Black Virginians.


The branch denounces manipulative mailers from a MAGA-aligned political action committee that falsely liken this measure to Jim Crow, a cruel system that stripped Black Americans of their rights. These tactics threaten fair representation and civic accountability in Virginia.


Read the full statement below.





120 Days of Giving



As we wrap up our 120 Days of Giving, we’re celebrating the incredible power of our community. Your generosity has fueled advocacy, supported local leaders, and sustained the work that makes Fairfax County stronger and more equitable.


In honor of Women’s History Month, we recognize the women whose leadership, vision, and commitment have carried our communities forward—and we honor everyone who has joined them in this effort. Because of you, we’ve moved the needle—and together, we’re building a legacy that will last far beyond these 120 days.


Thank you for standing with us, giving, leading, and sustaining change. The movement continues—and you are at the heart of it.



GIVE TODAY



Apply Now — Extended Deadline!



The Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Fairfax County NAACP, is awarding three $1,000 and two $500 scholarships to outstanding Black students who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to equity in our community.


Eligible Fairfax County students must apply by April 30 to be considered. Don’t wait—take the next step toward your educational goals today! Access the application and full eligibility details using the QR code or link below.


Please share widely so we can reach students who could benefit from this meaningful opportunity.



Applications close April 30th!




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.”.


Event Highlights Recap

February Event Highlights


In February, the Fairfax County NAACP continued its commitment to education, reflection, and community connection with two meaningful events in recognition of Black History Month.


Members and supporters gathered for our General Membership Meeting, where we were honored to welcome E.B. Henderson as our guest speaker. Henderson shared thoughtful insights on the importance of preserving history, strengthening community leadership, and remaining engaged in the ongoing work of advancing civil rights. His remarks offered both perspective and inspiration as we continue our efforts to advocate for equity and justice throughout Fairfax County.


Later in the month, the branch hosted its Black History Month Gospel Celebration at Harvest Assembly Baptist Church. The celebration brought the community together through music, fellowship, and reflection on the rich spiritual and cultural traditions that have sustained generations in the fight for freedom and equality.


We are grateful to Harvest Assembly Baptist Church, our special singers, guest speakers, and everyone who joined us in honoring the legacy of Black history while strengthening the bonds that move our community forward.

Highlights from the Black History Month Gospel Explosion,


The Fairfax County NAACP hosted our annual Black History Month Gospel Celebration at Harvest Assembly Baptist Church, bringing the community together for an uplifting evening of worship, music, and reflection honoring the rich spiritual legacy of Black history. Check out some of the highlights below.









Highlights from the February General Membership Meeting


The Fairfax County NAACP hosted our February General Membership Meeting, featuring E.B. Henderson as our guest speaker. Members and community supporters gathered for a thoughtful conversation on history, leadership, and the continued importance of civic engagement in advancing equity and justice.


You can view Mr. Henderson’s insightful conversation in the video below at timestamp 1:05:14



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   

Les Shockley

2ndvp@fairfaxnaacp.org


Third Vice President 

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

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

Matthew Sowd

justice@fairfaxnaacp.org


Economic Development

Richard America

economicdev@fairfaxnaacp.org


Education

Dr. Iris Hunter

education@fairfaxnaacp.org


Environmental and Climate Justice

environment@fairfaxnaacp.org


Fair and Affordable Housing

Mary Paden

housing@fairfaxnaacp.org


Freedom Fund (Fundraising)

DeShane Jones

freedomfund@fairfaxnaacp.org


Health

health@fairfaxnaacp.org


Legal Redress

Meredyth Havasy

legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.org


Membership

Jesse Ernest

membership@fairfaxnaacp.org


Political Action

Lenior Simmons

politicalaction@fairfaxnaacp.org


Religious Affairs

Pat Jackson

religiousaffairs@fairfaxnaacp.org


Women in NAACP (WIN)

Evelyn Spain

win@fairfaxnaacp.org


Youth Works

youthcouncil@fairfaxnaacp.org






Fairfax County NAACP

www.fairfaxnaacp.org | communications@fairfaxnaacp.org

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