News For You

May, 2025

MAY 2025

President's Message

Members, Supporters, and Friends of the Branch,


As we move through May, the Fairfax NAACP continues its work to ensure equity and

justice for all. This month, we focus on our upcoming forum titled, “How Has This Election and Current Policies Affected the Black Community”. The forum will be held on May 29, 2025, from 6 pm - 7:30 pm at the Burke Centre Library.


As a mother, I want to take a moment to acknowledge and reflect on the recent Mother's Day.


To all the mothers in our community, I extend my warmest wishes and hope you enjoyed a wonderful Mother's Day. Your strength, resilience, and unwavering love are the foundation of our families and communities. You nurture, guide, and inspire us all. You overcome obstacles, break barriers, and pour your hearts into your children and loved ones. We honor you, we thank you, and we celebrate you.


We recognize the unique challenges and triumphs that Black mothers experience. Your contributions to our society are invaluable, and your legacy of strength and perseverance is an inspiration.


The Fairfax NAACP is committed to supporting families and working towards a world where all mothers have the resources and support they need to thrive.


We continue to need your engagement and involvement in every advocacy effort. Please join or renew your membership today. Several of our committees are in need of volunteers. If you're a member and you haven't joined a committee yet, please sign up today and make a difference!


Thank you for your continued dedication and support of the Fairfax NAACP. Together, we will continue to strive for a more just and equitable society.


Together In Service,

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.

Upcoming Community Forum: The Black Community & Policy Impact


The Fairfax County NAACP invites you to join us for an important community forum on the topic, “How Has This Election and Current Policies Affected the Black Community?” This timely event will take place on Thursday, May 29 from 6:00–7:30 PM at the Burke Centre Library (5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke, VA 22015).


This forum will offer a space for critical dialogue around how recent election outcomes and policy decisions are affecting Black Virginians in key areas such as economic development, education, healthcare, and criminal justice.


Our distinguished panel includes:

  • Rozia Henson, Virginia State Delegate, District 19
  • Karen Keys-GamarraVirginia State Delegate, District 7
  • Anthony Amos, Fairfax City Council Member
  • Krysta Jones, Social Justice Advocate


This is a valuable opportunity to hear from local leaders, ask questions, and engage in solutions-focused conversation. The event is free and open to the public.


We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful evening of civic engagement and community empowerment.


*Questions can be submitted when registering.*



Register Below



Join Us for a Powerful Panel Discussion at Our May General Membership Meeting



This month’s General Membership Meeting will feature a thought-provoking panel discussion: “Lift Every Voice and Sing?”How People of Faith Can Respond to the Current Assault on Racial Justice and Constitutional Norms.


Tuesday, May 27, 2025

7 PM

Zoom


In 1900, NAACP members James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson coauthored “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” now known as the Black National Anthem. Its words have long served as a spiritual rallying cry in the fight for justice.


Today, as civil rights and constitutional protections come under attack, how can religious communities and believers lift their voices in response?


Join us for a timely and powerful panel discussion featuring:

  • Mary Beth MathewsProfessor of Religious Studies, University of Mary Washington. “African American Spirituality and Emancipation”
  • Ms. Amy MarshakRacial Justice Ministry, The Falls Church Episcopal. “Local Truth Telling: The Falls Church’s Ties to Slavery”
  • Reverend Dr. Lakeisha CookExecutive Director, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. “Lifting Our Voice and Singing”


All are welcome. You won’t want to miss this important conversation at the intersection of faith, justice, and action.




RSVP Below!



2025 College Day is Almost Here – Join Us!



The NAACP Fairfax County Branch invites you to our 2025 College Day on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Gum Springs Community Center in Alexandria, VA.


Co-sponsored by Dominion Energy, FEA (Fairfax Education Association), FCFT (Fairfax County Federation of Teachers), and Local 5 Plumbers, this event is all about supporting and celebrating our students! We’re bringing together college recruiters, community organizations, and local families for a day filled with opportunities, resources, and inspiration.


Highlights include:



• Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship Presentation

• School Bag Giveaway

• K-12 Book Giveaway

• Stuff the Trunk Gifts for 2025 High School Seniors (while supplies last)

• College Recruiters and Community Info Tables


All are welcome. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or supporter—you don’t want to miss this!


Come connect with others and help us cheer on the next generation of leaders.



Register Below!



Clean-Up Day at the Historic African American Cemetery




Join Fairfax County NAACP and NOVA Parks on Saturday, June 7, from 9 AM to 12 noon at Bull Run Regional Park as we clean up the historic Harris Family Cemetery—resting place of formerly enslaved individuals freed by Robert Carter III in the 1790s.


This effort prepares the site for our Juneteenth Commemoration on June 21.

Meet at 9 AM by the big shade tree near the Atlantis Water Park entrance. Wear long sleeves, bring gloves, water, and bug spray. Tools provided.



Sign Up Below!



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:

  • An unforgettable evening of networking, celebration, and inspiration
  • Sponsorship and ad opportunities to showcase your brand
  • 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!



Event Highlights Recap

April Event Highlights


April was a month of advocacy, community outreach, and action across our Fairfax County Branch.


We began with a Senior Town Hall, where older residents connected with local leaders and received vital updates on services impacting their daily lives.


Our Homeownership Forum for People of Color followed, providing practical tools and insights to help close the racial wealth gap and support families on the path to ownership.


Later in the month, our Budget Committee presented a powerful testimony at the Fairfax County FY 2026 Budget Public Hearing, Urging the Board of Supervisors to invest in equity across key community systems.


We wrapped up the month with a hands-on Postcard Party, rallying volunteers to remind voters about the upcoming primary and the power of showing up at the polls.

Highlights from our Senior Town Hall


Here’s a look at our Senior Town Hall, where Fairfax County NAACP and Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) brought together local officials and leaders for an open, solutions-focused conversation for seniors. From housing and healthcare to safety and services, this conversation centered around the needs and voices of our senior community. Watch the full discussion below.



Highlights from our Homeownership Forum for People of Color


Here’s a look at our Homeownership Forum for People of Color, where Fairfax County NAACP, along with NCS, joined with local experts and advocates to address the deep-rooted barriers to homeownership in our communities. Moderated by our Housing Committee Chair, Mary Paden, the forum covered everything from financing and credit to navigating the housing market—offering real tools and strategies to build generational wealth and close the racial homeownership gap. View photos and watch the full conversation below.

Housing Chair Mary Paden (seated in blue) led the forum as moderator, bringing focus and passion to the conversation on equitable homeownership.

Attendees listened in as panelists shared tools and insights on navigating the homeownership journey—from financing to fair access.

The forum offered more than information—it created a space for community, connection, and shared learning.

Highlights from our Fairfax County FY 2026 Budget Public Hearing Testimony


Here’s a look at the testimony delivered by our Budget Chair and 3rd Vice President Les Shockley during the Fairfax County FY 2026 Budget Public Hearing. His compelling remarks called for increased investment in equity-driven policies across education, housing, legal services, economic development, and criminal justice reform. You can watch his five-minute testimony below, and read the full written testimony at the link provided.

Highlights from our Postcard Party


Here’s a look at our Postcard Party, hosted by our Political Action (PAC) Chair Lenior Simmons. Volunteers gathered to write personal messages encouraging voters to participate in the upcoming primary election. It was a fun, hands-on way to boost civic engagement and remind our community that every vote truly counts.

Volunteers writing postcards during our Postcard Party. Dozens joined us at the Burke Center Library to send postcards to Fairfax County residents encouraging them to vote in the June 27th Primary Election.

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.

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.



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:


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


Scholarship

Darrell Allen and Tara Smalls

scholarship@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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