Javar Juarez (CUBNSC) Columbia, S.C. - On Fire For Justice, On Fire For Peace: NAACP Freedom Fund Gala Right On Time. The NAACP Freedom Fund Gala, themed "Fired Up for Justice, Fired Up for Peace," was a remarkable event focused on honoring community leaders and amplifying voices that strive for justice, equity, and peace. The evening brought together leaders from across Richland County, South Carolina, and beyond, showcasing the importance of unity and advocacy in these crucial times.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III
The keynote speaker, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer III, the General President-Elect of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., delivered an inspiring message to protect our democracy by staying informed and discerning. He emphasized the dangers of misinformation in the current political climate, particularly under the leadership of Donald Trump, whose strategies he critiqued as mere concepts without concrete plans. Dr. Lonzer encouraged the audience to vet the information they consume and remain committed to democracy and justice.
Award Winners and Honorees
The Gala honored several community leaders for their outstanding service and dedication, including Cynthia Hardy, Jonathan Kirkwood, Dr. Kim Moore, Gail Glover, Don Frierson, Pastor Ricky Ezell and Bishop Redfern II. These individuals have demonstrated excellence in communications, education, religion, and community programs, supporting the NAACP’s mission to promote equity, justice, and peace.
Historical Reflections
The legacy of activism runs deep in South Carolina, and this year’s Gala reflected on pivotal moments in the state’s history. One such moment was Bouie v. City of Columbia (1964), a landmark case in which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that retroactive application of criminal statutes violated due process. This case stemmed from a sit-in demonstration led by Allen University and Benedict College students, who were arrested for trespassing after peacefully protesting segregation at a lunch counter. The bravery of these students continues to inspire today’s activists.
Dr. Bobby Donaldson, Associate Professor of History at the University of South Carolina's College of Arts and Sciences, paid tribute to the civil rights icons who stood steadfast against injustice and exercised their constitutional rights. Among those honored was Dr. Simon Bouie, present at the gala, who played a pivotal role in the movement. Dr. Donaldson also recognized Cheryl Frazier-Leysath, one of the first African-American students to integrate Richland School District One, and Oveta Glover, a lifelong advocate for justice who, at just six years old in 1963, helped desegregate South Carolina’s public schools. Now President of the NAACP Columbia Branch, Glover continues to spearhead initiatives that amplify youth voices and promote peace.
Creating Spaces for Dialogue
In recent years, Glover has been instrumental in hosting panel conversations titled "What’s Going on in Columbia," a series that brought together elected officials, community leaders, and youth to discuss pressing issues like violent crime in Richland County. With increasing homicides and youth violence, Glover’s platform gave the community a chance to confront these challenges head-on and explore ways to resolve conflict and broker peace among our youth and young adults. 1st vice president Ms. Gene Parks presented the Columbia NAACP Youth Council with the Community Service Award.
Standing Firm Against Hate
The event took place amid heightened racial tensions and recent attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, including a public roast held at the University of South Carolina’s Russell House that sparked protests. NAACP Columbia Branch President Oveta Glover led a charge on the steps of the South Carolina Statehouse, making it clear that such hatred and white nationalist grievances have no place in our society.
Despite these challenges, the evening was a celebration of diversity, resilience, and community love, with attendees from across the state gathering to unite under the shared goal of justice.
A Night to Remember
The NAACP Freedom Fund Gala proved once again to be a vital event in the fight for equality and justice, amplifying the voices of those who are often marginalized. The Columbia Urban Broadcast Network (CUBN) salutes the efforts of President Glover and the entire NAACP Columbia Branch for their tireless work in supporting the community.
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