Local NAACP News – November 2016

by Carmen Ramos-Kennedy –

As we move towards the conclusion of a fractious election season, I want to lift up the work of the many Asheville-Buncombe Branch NAACP member/volunteers and Democracy NC volunteers who have trained to register voters and poll monitors.

Those nonpartisan volunteers registered and educated voters on the issues, made thousands of phone calls, canvassed, worked to protect the rights of voters at their polling place, and transported voters to the polls. They gave it their all in the work of the people!

Whatever the election result, it’s my fervent hope that people will stay engaged. We must hold our newly elected or re-elected officials accountable for ensuring that no child goes to bed hungry, that each child no matter where they live has an opportunity to a high-quality education.

We have to continue the fight for Medicaid expansion in the state of NC. The fight for reform in our Criminal Justice System must be a priority, AND we must continue to fight for economic justice that includes a living wage for workers and affordable housing for all.

Election of officers: At the October 11, 2016 regular monthly Branch meeting the Nominating Committee Chair asked three times for additional nominations for executive office. With no nominations from the floor, the Nominating Committee Chair asked that the slate of current officers be elected by acclamation.

Those present were asked by the Chair who favored and who opposed the election by acclamation. All present, but one member, approved. The one member requested that the election by ballot still be held. In consideration of that member, even with the majority agreeing to the election of officers by acclamation and no other nominations coming forward, an election by ballot will be held.

Due to the General Election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, and many members working at the polls or GOTV efforts, the regular monthly meeting of the Asheville-Buncombe Branch is postponed until Saturday, Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Hill Street Baptist Church. That meeting will be for the sole purpose of the formal election of officers as indicated in the previous paragraph.

Carmen Ramos-Kennedy is the President of the Asheville-Buncombe County NAACP Branch #5363. For questions and membership information, call (828) 255-4453, or send an email to [email protected]. Asheville Buncombe NAACP, PO Box 2881, Asheville, NC 28802.