NAACP to bring the 117th National Convention to Chicago

By Morgan Carpenter
AFRO Intern
mcarpenter@afro.com

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its annual convention serves as a forum for members and supporters to discuss policy priorities, develop advocacy strategies and address issues affecting the Black community nationwide.

This month, NAACP leaders will convene thousands of activists, policymakers, business leaders and community advocates in Chicago for its 117th National Convention, a five-day gathering focused on civil rights, civic engagement and social justice.

The convention, scheduled for July 18-22 at McCormick Place West, will be held under the theme of “We, the People” as the nation celebrates 250 years.

One of the convention’s central attractions will be “The Hub,” a public space featuring Black-owned businesses, cultural exhibits, discussions and interactive experiences centered on Black entrepreneurship, technology, wellness, mental health and the arts.

The Hub will officially open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. July 17, followed by an opening block party at 6:30 p.m., hosted by Chicago radio personality Tone Kapone and DJ DeeDee. Both events are free and open to the public.

Convention attendees will participate in policy discussions and vote on resolutions that will help shape the NAACP’s advocacy agenda on issues including voting rights, criminal justice reform, education, environmental justice and gun violence prevention.

The event will also feature the national finals of the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics, known as ACT-SO, where high school students from across the country will compete and showcase achievements in academic, artistic and scientific disciplines.

Additional highlights include the annual Spingarn Dinner, the organization’s signature gala recognizing Black achievement and leadership and a celebration marking the 90th anniversary of the NAACP Youth and College Division.

The convention is expected to draw elected officials, civil rights advocates, entrepreneurs, entertainers, media professionals and student leaders from across the country. 

Take a look below for the responses of NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson to various questions about the convention and the organization as a whole.

AFRO: The theme of this year’s convention is “We, the People.” As the nation celebrates 250 years, what does that phrase mean to the NAACP, and what changes do you believe are necessary for all Americans to truly be included in the dream set forth by the country’s founders? 

Derrick Johnson: When the Constitution says “We, the People,” it doesn’t say the powerful, the wealthy, or the well-connected. It says “the people.” But 250 years after this country’s founding, too many Americans are still fighting for rights and opportunities that should have been guaranteed long ago. This convention’s theme is both a recognition of that milestone and a challenge to meet the promise it represents. It’s a reminder that democracy works best when 

every voice is heard, and every community is valued. 

To fully realize the promise of this country, we must protect voting rights, expand access to quality education and healthcare, defend civil rights and ensure economic opportunity isn’t determined by your ZIP code, race, or background. The dream of the founders remains unfinished work, and “We, the People” is a call for all of us to finish it together. 

AFRO: The Hub aims to bring together entrepreneurs, artists, athletes and community leaders. How do you see economic opportunity and cultural influence playing a role in advancing civil rights today? 

Johnson: Civil rights and economic opportunity have always been connected. You can’t build lasting freedom without pathways to wealth, ownership and economic mobility. That’s why The Hub is such an important part of our convention—it brings together the innovators, business owners, creators and community leaders who are shaping the future in real time.  

Culture moves people, and people move policy. Artists, athletes, entrepreneurs and influencers have the power to elevate important conversations, challenge injustice and inspire action. When we combine economic empowerment with cultural influence, we’re creating opportunities not just for individual success, but for community transformation. That’s how moments become movements, and that’s how we harness power for progress.  

AFRO: This convention will address issues ranging from voting rights and education to environmental justice and gun violence. What are the NAACP action plans for addressing these top challenges in the Black community? 

Johnson: The NAACP is not just a civil rights organization—we’re an action organization. Every year, delegates from across the country debate and adopt resolutions that help guide our advocacy, litigation, organizing and civic engagement efforts for the year ahead. Issues like voting rights, education, environmental justice, criminal justice reform and gun violence are all on the agenda because they directly impact the quality of life in Black communities.  

Our approach is simple yet powerful. We organize locally, advocate nationally and hold decision-makers accountable. Whether we’re fighting voter suppression, pushing for equitable school funding, demanding environmental protections, or addressing the epidemic of gun violence, we’re committed to turning community concerns into policy solutions. Convention is where those ideas become action, and where action becomes impact. As the midterm election in November approaches, we will mobilize volunteers and prepare to turn out millions of voters to the polls.  

AFRO: The NAACP’s Youth and College Division is celebrating its 90th anniversary, and ACT-SO continues to showcase young Black talent. How is the organization preparing the next generation of leaders to carry forward the fight for civil rights? 

Johnson: The future of the movement is already here, and they’re already speaking. For 90 years, the NAACP Youth and College Division has empowered young people to organize, advocate and lead on the issues that matter most to their generation. Today, they are not waiting for permission to make change—they are driving it.  

Programs like ACT-SO demonstrate the extraordinary talent, brilliance and innovation that exist in our communities’ youth. For decades, ACT-SO has encouraged excellence in academics, science, technology, the arts and culture, giving young people a platform to dream bigger and achieve more.  

Our goal is to ensure the next generation has the tools, resources and opportunities to lead. We are developing not just future civil rights leaders, but future educators, entrepreneurs, scientists, elected officials and changemakers who will continue expanding freedom and opportunity for everyone. 

AFRO: What message do you hope attendees and people watching across the country take away from this year’s convention about the future of the civil rights movement? 

Johnson: The Civil Rights Movement isn’t some chapter in a history book. It’s happening all around us, powered by people who believe a better future is possible. At a time when many are trying to divide us, the theme “We, the People” reminds us that our collective power is stronger than any effort to silence, exclude, or discourage us. 

I hope people leave our Convention with a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. The challenges before us are real, but so is our ability to overcome them.  

The future of the civil rights movement is bold, multigenerational and action-oriented. And if we remember the power behind those three words — “We, the People”—there is no limit to what we can achieve together. Because when we act together, we’re unstoppable. 

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