This summer, the NAACP National Convention will be held in Boston from Wednesday, July 26 –  Tuesday August 1. As the region prepares for this significant event, the Roundtable hosted an Open Forum discussion with Tanisha M. Sullivan, Esq., President of the NAACP Boston branch to learn more about the programming and how the business community can support it. The national convention is being produced by the National NAACP and the NAACP Boston will play in important role in engaging our community to showcase our region’s progress in advancing equity and racial justice. Thanks to Tanisha for her leadership and taking the time to connect with Roundtable members to share an overview of the programming elements for the convention and outlining initial opportunities for business community engagement, which are listed below. The Roundtable will continue to share further information as it becomes available throughout the planning process this spring.

Overview and key takeaways

  • The national convention is one of the NAACP’s two marquee events and the national office leads the planning. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend the Convention.
  • NAACP is a multiracial organization and doors are open to all to participate in the Convention’s programming.
  • There are various programming elements, including a pre-convention competition for high school students (ACT-SO), affinity group programming, and more.
  • The Convention will also highlight and tell the story of Boston throughout the program. The business community has an important role to play in highlighting areas of progress and showcasing impactful leaders and stories.

Business Community Engagement Opportunities

  • Financial support and sponsorship for the Convention programming
  • Participate in the Career Summit
  • Support volunteer recruitment and presence through employee affinity groups and ERGs
  • Attend pre-convention programming with NAACP Boston
  • Showcase stories of progress in our region

How to get involved: Email convention@naacpboston.org. NAACP Boston is bringing on staff to run point on Convention planning who will monitor this email account. You can also contact the Roundtable for further opportunities to get involved including the activities listed above.