News For You

May 2026

MAY 2026

A Message from the President:


Greetings Members and Friends,


Honoring Resilience and Advocating for Change


As we step into the vibrant month of May, we are surrounded by themes of renewal and recognition. This month offers us a profound opportunity to celebrate the foundations of our community while addressing the critical challenges that persist within it.


Celebrating Motherhood


First and foremost, I want to extend a heartfelt Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and maternal figures within the NAACP Fairfax County Branch. Your dedication, wisdom, and unwavering support form the bedrock of our families and our advocacy work. We honor the diverse ways you lead—both in the home and in the public sphere—and we thank you for the sacrifices you make to build a brighter future for the next generation.


A Call to Action: Black Maternal Health


While we celebrate, we must also remain vigilant and vocal about the systemic issues affecting our community. May is a vital time to bring renewed focus to Black Maternal Health. It is a sobering reality that Black women continue to face disproportionately high rates of pregnancy-related complications and mortality, regardless of their socioeconomic status or education level.


The NAACP Fairfax County Branch remains committed to the mission of equity and health justice. We must continue to advocate for:


  • Equal Access: Ensuring every mother receives high-quality, culturally competent prenatal and postpartum care.
  • Systemic Policy Change: Supporting legislation that addresses implicit bias in healthcare and expands maternal health resources.
  • Community Support: Creating environments where Black mothers are heard, respected, and empowered throughout their healthcare journeys.


Looking Ahead


Our work does not stop at awareness. As we prepare for our upcoming Scholarship Brunch on June 6, let us remember that the investments we make in our youth today are the key to breaking cycles of inequality tomorrow.



Thank you for your continued commitment to our shared vision. Together, we will continue to champion justice and celebrate the strength of our community.


In Solidarity,

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.

Happy Mother's Day



As Mother’s Day weekend comes to a close, Fairfax County NAACP extends heartfelt appreciation to the mothers, grandmothers, aunties, godmothers, and caregivers whose strength, sacrifice, wisdom, and love continue to shape our families and communities.


This weekend offered an opportunity to honor the women who nurtured generations, advocated for justice, opened doors where there were barriers, and poured into others often without recognition. Their resilience and leadership have helped move our communities forward and laid the foundation for future generations to thrive.


We also hold space for those who spent the weekend grieving, remembering, healing, or navigating complicated emotions. We hope the day brought moments of reflection, love, and connection in whatever way was needed most.


From our Fairfax County NAACP family to yours, thank you to the women who continue to lead, uplift, and inspire our communities every day.


A Community Conversation on Voting Rights and Representation




Fairfax County NAACP is proud to partner with fellow Fairfax County organizations for an important virtual conversation on maps, voter rights, and the upcoming midterm elections.


Join us on this Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM for Maps, Voter Rights, and the Midterms, featuring an engaging panel of leaders and experts, including Vivian Watts, Prof. Jeremy Mayer, Dr. Jennifer Victor (GMU), Arina Van Breda (LWV), Sarah Moore (NCBW), Krysta Jones (Black Women’s Roundtable), and representatives from the Fairfax County NAACP.


Register Below!




Connect With Employers at the Just-In-Time Hiring Fair




Ready for your next opportunity?


Join Fairfax NAACP, in partnership with George Mason University and Virginia TOP, for the Just-In-Time Hiring Fair. Meet employers who are actively hiring and take advantage of pre-fair workshops designed to help you refine your resume, strengthen your interview skills, and show up prepared.


Monday, May 18 | 1 – 4 PM

George Mason University

Dewberry Hall (Johnson Center, lower level)


RSVP now and view the Employer Directory to see who’s hiring and plan ahead.



Register Below!



May General Membership Meeting

Honoring Legacy, Leadership, and Civil Rights History



Join the Fairfax County NAACP on Tuesday, May 26 at 7 PM for our upcoming General Membership Meeting as we celebrate service, legacy, and the power of collective action.


This month, we are proud to recognize Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Alpha Beta Alpha Omega Chapter as the winner of the Fairfax County NAACP’s 3rd Annual BGLO Legacy Membership Challenge.


The challenge was created to strengthen support for the NAACP’s strategic priorities while honoring the longstanding impact of Black Greek-letter organizations and their commitment to service in our communities. We are grateful for Alpha Beta Alpha Omega Chapter’s partnership and dedication as we continue working together to make Fairfax County a better place to live, work, and thrive.


We will also hear from our very own Mike O’Brien, Secretary of the Fairfax County NAACP branch, as he discusses his latest book, The Tougaloo Nine: The Jackson Library Sit-In at the Crossroads of Civil War and Civil Rights. Released in November 2025, the book recently received the Mississippi Historical Society Book of the Year Award for 2026.


The book tells the compelling story of the first student-led civil rights demonstration in Mississippi in 1961 and its connection to the state’s Confederate centennial celebration during the 100th anniversary of secession. It also highlights the role of the national NAACP in supporting the students and Mississippi NAACP Field Secretary Medgar Evers during this pivotal moment in civil rights history.


We hope you will join us for this meaningful evening of recognition, reflection, and community.




Register Below!




Bringing Court Services Closer to Our Community



Access matters. And when essential services are easier to reach, our entire community benefits.


The Fairfax Circuit Court is expanding access by offering a monthly Satellite Clinic in the southern portion of the county—making it more convenient for residents to take care of important legal needs without traveling far.


Services are available on the second Tuesday of every month from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Gerry Hyland Government Center.


Upcoming Dates:


  • May 12, 2026
  • June 9, 2026


Services Include:


  • Marriage license issuance
  • Civil filings for existing cases
  • Certified copies of select court documents and records
  • Free notary services


This initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to increasing accessibility, convenience, and community connection—ensuring residents in every part of Fairfax County have access to the services they need.


We encourage our community to take advantage of this valuable resource and share it with others who may benefit.


For more information, visit the Fairfax Circuit Court website at the button below.



SAVE THE DATE!



Join us for the Fifth Annual Bull Run Juneteenth Commemoration, hosted in partnership with NOVA Parks, as we come together to honor freedom, history, and community.



Saturday, June 13

3:00–5:00 PM


Bull Run Regional Park

Atlantis Water Park

7700 Bull Run Drive

Centreville, VA 20121



Save the date and plan to celebrate this meaningful occasion with us as we reflect, rejoice, and remember.



RSVP Below





SAVE THE DATE!



It’s that time of year again—and this year, we’re making it even more unforgettable.


This year, the Fairfax County NAACP Annual Fundraiser Gala returns as a Masquerade Ball! An evening of elegance, mystery, and purpose awaits as we gather to celebrate community and continue the work of advancing equity and justice.


We are honored to welcome renowned journalist and media personality Roland Martin as this year’s keynote speaker.



Saturday, October 10, 2026  

5:30 PM  

Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park  

3111 Fairview Park Drive  

Falls Church, VA 22042



Tickets are on sale now, along with sponsorship opportunities, advertising packages, and vendor spaces. Reserve your seat today—once they’re gone, they’re gone.


Last year’s event sold out quickly, and we anticipate the same excitement this year. Don’t wait to secure your place at one of the most anticipated evenings of the year.


We look forward to welcoming you for a night where purpose meets celebration in true masquerade style.



Purchase tickets below!!




Keynote Speaker

Roland S. Martin


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.



Event Highlights Recap

April Event Highlights


In April, the Fairfax County NAACP continued its work to educate, engage, and empower the community through advocacy, civic engagement, and strategic partnerships.


The branch proudly partnered with George Mason University to help facilitate its Annual AI Conference, which welcomed 650 attendees. As part of the event, the Fairfax County NAACP was honored to award two cash prizes to Fairfax County Public Schools students in recognition of their outstanding AI projects and innovation.


At our April General Membership Meeting, we recognized Fair Housing Month with a timely and important discussion on housing justice. We were honored to welcome Thomas Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia (HOME), who spoke on the ongoing fight for fair housing and expanding access to safe, affordable housing for all.


Throughout the month, our Souls to the Polls efforts, led by our PAC Committee and its Chair, Lenior Simmons, remained active in support of the April 21 Constitutional Amendment campaign, “Don’t Guess, Vote Yes.” Volunteers worked to educate voters and encourage civic participation across the community.


The branch also hosted a virtual town hall, Understanding the Proposed Constitutional Amendment, where community members engaged in an informative discussion and asked thoughtful questions about the proposed amendment. Special thanks to panelists Penny Blue of Virginia for Fair Elections, and Delegates Kathy Tran and Karen Keys-Gamarra for helping lead this important conversation.


We thank our members, partners, volunteers, and community supporters for continuing to show up, stay engaged, and help advance the work of justice, equity, and civic empowerment throughout Fairfax County.



Highlights from the Annual AI Conference


The Fairfax County NAACP proudly partnered with George Mason University for its Annual AI Conference and awarded two cash prizes to Fairfax County Public Schools students for their outstanding AI projects. Check out some of the highlights below.








Highlights from Souls to the Polls Community Engagement Efforts


Throughout April, Fairfax County NAACP volunteers participated in Souls to the Polls events in support of the “Don’t Guess, Vote Yes” campaign, helping educate and engage voters across the community. Check out highlights from these efforts below.




Highlights from the April General Membership Meeting


At our April General Membership Meeting, we recognized Fair Housing Month with special guest Thomas Fitzpatrick, who led an important conversation on housing justice and expanding access to safe, affordable housing. 


You can view his full conversation in the video below, beginning at the 55:48 timestamp.



Highlights from the “Understanding the Proposed Constitutional Amendment” Town Hall


Community members joined us virtually for an informative town hall discussion on the proposed constitutional amendment, featuring an engaging panel and thoughtful community questions.


You can view the full conversation in the video below,



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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