The NAACP says it will not invite President Donald Trump to it’s annual convention — breaking with a 116-year tradition of inviting sitting presidents.
Here’s what NAACP stands for and what they said.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said in a statement on Monday, “We’re nonpartisan and always welcome those who believe in democracy and the Constitution. But right now, it’s clear — Donald Trump is attacking our democracy and our civil rights. He believes more in the fascist playbook than in the U.S. Constitution. This playbook is radical and un-American. The president has signed unconstitutional executive orders to oppress voters and undo federal civil rights protections; he has illegally turned the military on our communities.”
Johnson went on to say, “The NAACP Convention has always been a place where people across the country come together to map out our advocacy and mobilization strategies to advance civil rights and democracy for all. Our annual convention is meant to be a safe space for all people — regardless of political ideology — who believe in multiracial democracy and the ideal of building a more perfect union.”
Aug 19, 2024; Chicago, IL, USA; Derrick Johnson, President & CEO of the NAACP, left, and Melanie L. Campbell, President & CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, speak during the first day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center. The DNC program will feature President Joe Biden and Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during Monday’s ceremonies. Mandatory Credit: Jasper Colt-USA TODAY
The NAACP concluded, “To that end, the NAACP has made the decision to break with tradition and not invite Donald Trump or J.D. Vance this year. This administration does not respect the Constitution or the rule of law. It would be a waste of our time and energy to give a platform to fascism, which would be unacceptable.”
The Washington Post has reported the White House responded to the snub by claiming the NAACP is promoting hate and division.
What does NAACP stand for?
The NAACP is the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, a civil rights organization founded in 1909. It is the oldest and largest civil rights group in the U.S.
The group origins are rooted in the fight for African American rights, with a core mission to eliminate racial discrimination and ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality rights for all, according to the NAACP.
The NAACP uses legal action, advocacy and lobbying to promote civil rights and equality as well as grassroots activism to fight for social justice.
What is the NAACP National Convention?
The NAACP National Convention is an annual event that seeks to bring together members, activists and leaders to discuss and address civil rights issues, network and celebrate the organization’s work, according to the NAACP.
When is this year’s NAACP National Convention?
This year, the 116th NAACP National Convention will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina from July 12-16, 2025.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Donald Trump not invited to NAACP Convention. What’s NAACP stand for?