The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Salem-Keizer Branch 1166 is hosting our Annual Freedom Fund.  This year we are excited to provide culturally relevant desserts and wine to our guests. There will also be non-alcoholic drinks available. We cordially invite you and/or your organization to participate as Co-Sponsors, Table Sponsors or attendees on Monday, June 19th, 2023.  The 2023 theme 'This Little Light of Mine: Shining Beyond the Shadows' was inspired by the hymn Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing, more commonly referred to as the “Black National Anthem”.  Mr. James Weldon Johnson’s song provides a beautiful imagery of a biblical Exodus from slavery and oppression to liberation and salvation in the promised land.

Despite the progress we have made, a shadow over our Black and Brown youth is still present.  Words throughout the hymn describe a dark and gloomy past that consistently haunts us today.  Yet, we are also reminded of a deep hope and faith that may yet penetrate these shadows.  This is the kind of beautiful and unmistakable light the NAACP wants to see radiating from our children.  ‘This Little Light of Mine: Shining Beyond the Shadows’ is a reflection of our Branch’s collective motivation to energize and engage our communities–specifically with our youth of Color.  This is a moment in time to ensure their light burns brighter to fulfill their dreams and aspirations with encouragement, resiliency, and love.  In the words of Dr. Maya Angelou, “Love recognizes no barriers.  It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”   

We have strength in numbers, and we are better together when unified as one.  Join me today in replacing the shadows of despair with determination, timidity with boldness and tenacity, and bigotry and racism with love and reconciliation. 

Tickets sales begin May 1st and end June 5th. Simply go to our homepage to purchase tickets. If you want to volunteer or have questions, contact membership@sknaacp1166.org.