Local NAACP celebrates group’s 99th anniversary

On February 17, 2008, The Albemarle-Charlottesville Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People celebrated the national organization’s 99th anniversary at an event held in the auditorium at Jackson P. Burley Middle School in Charlottesville. The theme of the day was “Standing on the Promises.”

We recorded the event, and now bring you the highlights. The master of ceremonies for the event is Mrs. Janette B. Martin, Vice-President of the Albemarle-Charlottesville NAACP.
Timeline for podcast:

  • 0:51 – Reading of original poem, God, Give Me the Strength by Miss Bekenwari Idoniboye.
  • 3:38 – Mrs. Janette B. Martin welcomes the audience, and introduces the guests
  • 5:05 – Mrs. Shirley Roundtree, President, Fluvanna NAACP, reviews the history and purpose of the organization
  • 8:05 – Dr. M. Rick Turner, President, Albemarle-Charlottesville NAACP, addresses the issue of continuing segregation in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
  • 4:27- Rev. Michael Turner, President, Staunton NAACP, speaks to the vitalness of the organization’s work.
  • 6:37 – Rev. Mildred Middlebrooks, President, Waynesboro NAACP, remembers those who sacrificed their lives for justice.
  • 22:22 – Mr. Brandon Kelly, President, UVA NAACP College Chapter, reviews current threats to and triumphs of the struggle for equality.
  • 24:28 – Mrs. Martin introduces the youth speakers, Christen Edwards and Shelby Edwards.
  • 25:18 – Dr. Turner introduces the featured speaker, Rev. Dr. J. Rayfield Vines, Jr., Virginia State Conference NAACP President
  • 28:00 – Rev. Dr. Vines speaks on the topic, “Where Are You Standing?”