Sign the NAACP Black Consumer Pledge

Message from the NAACP:

Black dollars have power — nearly $2 trillion strong. Yet, too many corporations profit from our spending while rolling back their DEI commitments. This isn’t just a betrayal; it’s a threat to the progress we’ve fought for.

We see it. We won’t forget it. And we’ll continue to demand better.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion, is not just a trend - it's a way of life.

To support this effort will you sign the NAACP Black Consumer Pledge?

By signing the pledge, you commit to joining NAACP in the fight for an economy that benefits everyone. You can do this by:

Spending Intentionally: Support businesses and organizations that maintain and expand their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion and prioritize investment in Black communities.

Demanding Accountability: Call out corporations that have abandoned diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and demand transparency in their practices.

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses: Prioritize Black-owned businesses and service providers in spending decisions.

Advocating for Change: Push for policies strengthening supplier diversity, workplace equity, and economic inclusion for Black professionals and entrepreneurs.

Staying Informed: Educate yourself and others about corporate rollbacks and their impact on Black communities.

Join us by signing our pledge today. https://naacp.org/campaigns/black-consumer-advisory.

BET Media Group, NAACP, JSSK, and WME Launch the Altadena Community Preservation Fund

In response to the devastating Eaton Fire and its disproportionate impact on the historically Black community in Altadena, California, a coalition of industry leaders — including BET Media Group, NAACP, Johnson Shapiro, Slewett & Kole (JSSK) and WME, in collaboration with local community organizations such as Community Aid Dena, Altadena Heritage, and WalkGood LA — has launched the Altadena Community Preservation Fund. This initiative, coordinated in partnership with LA County, aims to protect homeowners from displacement and preserve the community's cultural heritage.

Recognizing the long-term recovery challenges ahead, the fund will provide direct financial assistance to support immediate needs during the rebuilding process — including temporary housing, independent adjusters, legal fees, and administrative costs — with the goal of ensuring Altadena's historic community and homeownership remain intact for future generations.

The fund will empower recipients to navigate recovery on their own terms by providing homeowners and small business owners impacted by the Eaton Fire direct cash assistance in the form of bridge grants. Additionally, the NAACP is activating with a presence on the ground, hosting town hall meetings and creating dedicated spaces for the community to connect with aid officials.

To ensure meaningful support for those who qualify, the fund will focus on assisting homeowners who were living within the historically Black communities of Altadena, defined by census tracts, particularly those:

Homeowners who are uninsured or underinsured, including those on the California FAIR Plan

Homeowners with limited net wealth as determined by LA County means testing parameters

Multi-generational households with higher financial strains due to shared housing and caregiving responsibilities

Senior (65+) Altadena homeowners who are not in the workforce

"For generations, Altadena served as a refuge for Black Americans looking to escape the Jim Crow South and the discriminatory land ownership practices pervasive in somany other communities in California. As such, it became a haven for Black families and an exemplar of the power of generational wealth in the Black community," said Scott Mills, President & CEO of BET Media Group. "At BET, we are committed to coming to the aid of our communities when they need us most. The Altadena Community Preservation Fund is about more than just recovery — it's about empowering families, preserving history, and ensuring that this vibrant community continues to thrive for generations to come."

"The NAACP has proudly stood by our community in the face of uncertainty, and the tragedies from the California wildfires are no exception. Altadena - a city rich in Black history and homeownership deserves hope and an unwavering commitment to restoration," said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. "The unimaginable devastation has stripped generations of Black families of not just their homes, but the sanctuaries and pillars of generational wealth they built. Entire communities are facing overwhelming loss, and we remain steadfast in our pledge to the rebuilding process. Through this coalition of partners and organizations, we are dedicated to providing the critical resources needed to help families reclaim and rebuild what was lost."

"This fund was built to assist in safeguarding generational wealth for the multiethnic and socioeconomically diverse community that calls Altadena home," said Romola Ratnam, SVP and Head of Impact and Inclusion at Endeavor. "WME is proud to be rallying our network and committing resources to ensure that direct relief for Altadena residents is a priority for the entertainment community across Los Angeles."

"The Altadena Community Preservation Fund will be a critical resource for those most at risk of being permanently displaced by this tragedy," said Hannah Linkenhoker, Chief Engagement Officer at JSSK. "This initiative underscores our shared responsibility to safeguard the rich cultural heritage of this historically significant neighborhood and the power that arises when Angelinos come together to support our community in times of need."

The Altadena Community Preservation Fund will be administered in partnership with FORWARD — a platform dedicated to putting people first through efficient, secure, and human-centered technology. With a focus on reducing barriers and ensuring aid reaches recipients swiftly, securely, and equitably, FORWARD empowers organizations to deliver support when it matters most. This fund will uphold transparency, efficiency, and accountability in distributing much-needed aid, with allocation based on available funds.

"I am deeply honored to be a partner in this dynamic coalition, along with many others committed to the road of recovery. Restoration begins with stabilizing and supporting our most vulnerable community members and that's exactly what this effort is designed to do," said Aja Brown, Senior Vice President of Impact at FORWARD, who hails from Altadena.

NAACP President Condemns Trump Administration’s Roll Back of DEI Programs

In a flurry of Executive Orders enacted on President Trump's first day in office, the controversial Administration has chosen to roll back all federal programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. The move represents a significant regression from the previous Administration's approach to centering racial equity and remedying the systemic racism deeply entrenched in our nation's governing practices. 

NAACP President Derrick Johnson released the following statement condemning President Trump's Executive Order Rolling Back DEI in the Federal Government:

"It is outrageous that the President is rolling back critical Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. DEI programs help ensure that everyone can prosper. It's clear that President Trump does not value equal opportunity. 

His appalling executive order will only worsen America's racial hierarchy and benefit the oligarch class. This executive order threatens public services that benefit all Americans; it's an attempt to consolidate power and money to a few wealthy individuals. And poor and working-class people will pay the price. 

This is all part of a calculated strategy to redefine the role of government, privatize essential public services, and further discrimination. Elections have consequences and it's clear that this election has put a target on Black America's back." 

The data makes it clear: organizations with diverse workforces have a strategic advantage over those who don't. According to McKinsey, Companies in the top quartile for being ethnically and culturally diverse are 36% more profitable than those in the bottom quartile. 

To learn more about NAACP's work to advance a more inclusive economy, visit our website. 

NAACP Commends President Biden’s Clemency Actions During His Final Hours in the White House

In the wake of President Biden's announcement of pardoning five individuals including Marcus Garvey and commuting the sentences of two more, NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement:

The NAACP commends President Biden's leadership and commitment to justice demonstrated by today's pardons. Righting these wrongs highlights the systemic inequities that have – for too long – plagued our criminal justice system.

By pardoning and commuting individuals who have shown profound personal growth and dedication to serving their communities, President Biden has taken a meaningful step toward restoring their dignity and showing that this country believes in second chances.

But our work does not end here. Make no mistake, the NAACP will continue to fight on behalf of Black Americans who have been disproportionately impacted by the justice system.

NAACP Condemns Jury Verdict in Trial of Daniel Penny

A jury acquitted Daniel Penny, a white man who killed Jordan Neely, a 30-year old Black man that was experiencing a mental health crisis on the New York City subway before Penny placed him in a chokehold, leading to his tragic death.

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement, condemning the decision, warning of the dangerous precedent it sets:

"The NAACP is deeply disappointed by today's jury decision in the tragic death of Jordan Neely. This case sets a dangerous precedent by embracing vigilantism and disregarding the sanctity of human life. Let's be clear - mental health crises are medical emergencies, not crimes. America has yet again criminalized our community and subverted accountability. We remain resolute in our commitment to ensure that Black Americans receive the mental healthcare they deserve and our humanity is respected under the law."

NAACP President Condemns Racist Text Messages Sent to Black Americans Across the Country

In multiple states, including Alabama, North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, Black women, men, and students have reported receiving racist text messages from an unknown source, urging them to report to a plantation to pick cotton. 

NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson shared the following statement on the news of hateful, and racist text messages sent to individuals across the country:

"The unfortunate reality of electing a President who, historically has embraced, and at times encouraged hate, is unfolding before our eyes.  These messages represent an alarming increase in vile and abhorrent rhetoric from racist groups across the country, who now feel emboldened to spread hate and stoke the flames of fear that many of us are feeling after Tuesday's election results.

We've said it before and we'll say it again - there is no place for hate in a democracy. The threat — and the mention of slavery in 2024 — is not only deeply disturbing, but perpetuates a legacy of evil that dates back to before the Jim Crow era, and now seeks to prevent Black Americans from enjoying the same freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.  

These actions are not normal. And we refuse to let them be normalized. The NAACP was founded in the spirit of liberation and progress, bringing otherized communities together to fight for a brighter tomorrow. That spirit lives on as we continue to fight for the safety, security, and prosperity of all people. Freedom is on the horizon, and we won't be fear mongered out of the future we deserve."

In addition to the text messages, reports are circulating in states like North Carolina and Georgia, of planned attacks against Black Americans "from now until November." 

The NAACP has taken action to alert and urge the FBI and local law enforcement to take these messages seriously and respond appropriately. The Association continues to monitor and coordinate with our communities on the ground. If you have, or are experiencing hateful acts, please do not hesitate to contact our Constituent Services department. 

NAACP IS OFFERING FREE RIDES ON ELECTION DAY

Election Day is here! And if you need a ride to the ballot box, the NAACP has got you covered. This year, they have partnered with Lyft to provide discounted rides to help voters get to the polls.

Use the code NAACPVOTE24 to claim up to $20 off of two rides ($40 total)— one to the polls and one back. This offer runs from now through Election Day, November 5, while supplies last.

Claim your ride here: https://lyft.com/ride-with-lyft

New NAACP Data Displays Progress in Reaching Black Male Voters, Shifts in Key Attitudes and Priorities

Today, during a press briefing, the NAACP unveiled its final pre-election round of polling results outlining shifting attitudes and issue priorities of millions of Black voters. The research, in partnership with Hart Research and HIT Strategies, is part of the Association's $20 million dollar civic engagement program targeting 14.5 million voters across 12 priority states where the Black community holds significant electoral power. 

NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson, shared the following statement:

"This new data proves what we already know to be true - Black voters show up when they feel heard. The NAACP is proud to see the results of our $20 million investment as we continue to increase Black voter engagement and mobilization. Make no mistake - now is not the time to falter. We must be focused on people, not polls. Let's continue to knock doors, make phone calls, and send texts. Talk to your family members, your friends, and your neighbors. Our voices will only be heard when we cast our votes. The work continues."

Key takeaways include:

• From August to October, Black men under 50 have decreased their likelihood to vote for Trump (27-21%) and increased their likelihood to vote for Harris (51-59%). 
• To date, NAACP's $20 million civic engagement program has reached over 60 million Americans through canvassing, digital outreach, community outreach, and digital, print & radio ads.
• The NAACP has successfully ended Georgia's Hand Count rule, prevented the disenfranchisement of thousands of WA voters, and halted Alabama's "Purge Program" through coordinated litigation. 

The research study document and recording can be made available upon request. A recording from today's call can be found here and the presentation can be accessed  here.

On Election Day, the NAACP Communications team will stand up a Press War Room, providing real-time updates on what's happening at the polls, any reported incidents of voter suppression, and legal filings. Click here to RSVP and receive more information.

NAACP and Singleton Schreiber Champion Justice for Women of Color in Groundbreaking Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

The NAACP has partnered with Singleton Schreiber, a leading law firm specializing in civil rights, to pursue justice for Black and other women of color exposed to toxic chemical hair relaxers (perms). These products, widely marketed to women of color, have been linked to serious health problems such as uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and uterine fibroids with one of the following procedures: hysterectomy, myomectomy, or endometrial ablation. 

"The NAACP will use all its legal might to seek justice from those companies that have profited while Black women were harmed by these beauty products," said Janette McCarthy Wallace, General Counsel of the NAACP. "It remains the mission of The Association to protect Black women against predation of any form, most especially against their health and wellness."

For generations, Black women have used chemical relaxers to straighten their hair, a practice shaped by societal standards that favor Eurocentric beauty norms over natural Black hair textures. Haircare companies have aggressively marketed these harmful products to Black women and girls, often failing to disclose the associated health risks. Now, a lawsuit targeting major beauty corporations such as Soft Sheen-Carson LLC and others, seeks accountability for these companies' failure to disclose the dangers of their products. Women across the country have experienced health impacts, from scalp burns and infections to life-altering cancers, without being adequately warned. 

"Our partnership with the NAACP amplifies our shared mission to protect the health and rights of Black women," said Danielle Ward Mason, Partner at Singleton Schreiber. "By holding these companies accountable, we're sending a strong message that corporations profiting at the expense of women's health will face justice." 

The campaign aims to raise awareness, provide legal support to affected women, and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. This lawsuit represents a pivotal step in addressing the exploitation of marginalized communities by powerful corporations.  

For more information on this legal battle and how to join the fight, visit https://naacphairrelaxerjustice.com/  .  

NAACP calling for North Carolina Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Mark Robinson to drop out of the race

CNN released a story claims that Mark Robinson, the North Carolina Republican candidate for governor used a username he allegedly used frequently online to make several inflammatory comments on a message board of a pornography website more than a decade ago, including one comment where he allegedly referred to himself as a "black NAZI! After the story was released the NAACP has now called for Mark Robinson to step down:

Anyone who identifies as a Black Nazi and supports reinstating slavery has no place running for governor.

We’re nonpartisan, but we’re not blind. And we speak out against what is wrong.

Mark Robinson: drop out. https://t.co/O2P5l6cK6E

— NAACP (@NAACP) September 19, 2024

NAACP Announces Chicago as Home of the 117th National Convention

At a press conference in Chicago, Illinois, NAACP leaders welcomed Governor of Illinois J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson to announce a 2-year partnership bringing the NAACP National Convention to Chicago in 2026. The announcement comes as thousands of Black Americans gather in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, where Kamala Harris is poised to become the first Black woman to receive the Presidential nomination from a major political party.

NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson, shared the following statement:

"The NAACP is proud to partner with the Illinois State Conference, state and local leaders, and community partners to bring the nation's largest civil rights organization to Chicago. Being home to one of the largest Black populations in America, we're confident that our attendees will feel at home. As we celebrate a pivotal moment in Black history this week, we remain focused on our mission to advance Black culture and support the Black community. Chicago sits at the intersection of Black history, and Black future. We're excited to be here today, embarking on a partnership to bring the largest nationwide cohort of Black advocates to the Windy City."

The NAACP's first national convention in Chicago was in June 1926, a time when the civil rights movement was working to impart much-needed change for the Black community. A century later, the NAACP will return to the city in the Summer of 2026 with the same vision in mind – to galvanize and empower Black America. We are proud to partner with Choose Chicago, the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism, and the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA), owners of McCormick Place.

"100 years after the first NAACP Conference took place in Chicago, I couldn't be more proud to welcome them back in 2026 for what I'm sure will be the best conference yet,"said Governor JB Pritzker. "Chicago's Black community carries a storied history and an important place in the legacy of culture, activism, and advancement, and the NAACP Convention will be an opportunity to show off the best of Chicago and Illinois while also supporting the ongoing fight for racial justice."

"Chicago is proud to welcome the NAACP back to Chicago in 2026 and we cannot wait to showcase the best of our city to thousands of attendees," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "As a city rooted in Black history and committed to carrying forward the values of the NAACP in all that we do, there is no better place than Chicago for this historic event. I want to thank the NAACP for choosing Chicago as its home for the 2026 National Convention and I look forward to working together to deliver an incredible Chicago experience."

NAACP president: Georgia 'infringing on the right of voters' to participate in election

The NAACP is calling on the Department of Justice to open an investigation into Georgia's online voter registration removal portal. President and CEO of the NAACP Derrick Johnson joins MSNBC's Andrea Mitchell to explain more.

NAACP statement on President Biden’s Decision to end Re-election Campaign

President Joseph R. Biden Jr., announced that he would be stepping aside from his re-election campaign to focus on fulfilling his duties as President for the remainder of his term. Within his announcement, President Biden extended his thanks to and endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris to serve as the Democratic nominee for the 47th President of the United States. NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson released the following statement in reaction to the news:

"For over a century, the NAACP has been proud to galvanize the Black vote, ensuring our voices are heard on the most pressing policy issues for our community. We recognize that today's news may come as a shock to Black America. Just last week, President Biden energized thousands of Black voters attending our 115th National Convention in Las Vegas. And for four years, they've worked with us, delivering more than $160 billion in student debt cancellation, supporting nearly 10 million families through the Child Tax Credit, and developing our nation's first ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention, just to name a few. We understand that this decision was not an easy one, and we thank President Biden for prioritizing the good of the country over personal ambition.

While today's news requires a discussion - we cannot be distracted. Our focus must remain on the policies that presidential candidates stand for, not their political performances or personalities. Ahead of November, we must remain all in on educating, engaging and mobilizing Black America. All in on fighting for policies that will advance, not undermine our progress. We must remain all in on our community, standing as a united front as we head to the ballot box to defeat fascism, defend democracy, and determine our futures. The NAACP is all in, are you?"

Watch President Biden speech at the 115th National NAACP Convention

Watch President Biden's entire speech at the NAACP Convention in Las Vegas about the need to address violence, political violence and gun violence against children. He also defended his record and talked about inflation, child care, historical black colleges and universities, and his plans for a second term.

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson statement on Donald Trump being shot at political rally

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson issued the following statement after Donald Trump was shot at a political rally in Pennsylvania:

The incident in Pennsylvania is incredibly disheartening. We stand firm in our belief that there is no place for political violence in a functioning democracy.

— Derrick Johnson (@DerrickNAACP) July 14, 2024

NAACP Announces President Joe Biden as Key Speaker at 115th National Convention in Las Vegas

The NAACP, the nation's preeminent civil rights organization announced President Joe Biden will join the group as a key speaker at the 115th National NAACP Convention taking place in Las Vegas from July 13 to July 17. 

"Ahead of this crucial election, the NAACP has worked fervently to educate our members and our community on the importance of exercising our right to vote," said NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson. "The rights of Black Americans are under rampant attack - from efforts to limit access to education, the mass absolving of diversity programs, and officials at every level actively working to dilute voting rights. There is no better time than now for our presidential candidates to reassure our community that our voices are heard and our concerns are a priority. We welcome President Joe Biden as a key speaker at our national convention. It is our hope that we leave Las Vegas feeling more empowered to cast our ballot - knowing in full faith that we will not be silenced."

President Joe Biden engaged with The Association multiple times this spring. The current president and presidential candidate gave an address at the NAACP's Brown v. Board 70th anniversary event at the National African American History and Culture Museum. He also attended the NAACP Freedom Fund dinner in Detroit as a key speaker for the annual event.

The NAACP has shared invitations to both presidential candidates as a welcome to address its members at the upcoming national convention.

NAACP Response to Guilty Verdict in Trump Criminal Fraud Case

This evening, a 12-person jury in Manhattan found former president Donald Trump guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal alleged affairs during his 2016 campaign. The conviction comes amidst three ongoing cases against the current Republican presidential candidate.

Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO shared the following statement:

"Today is a monumental step toward justice for the American people. Whether it's an attempt to steal an election or overthrow our government, one thing has long been apparent - Donald Trump is unfit to represent American democracy. The NAACP strongly believes that anyone who has been found guilty of criminal offenses of this magnitude is unfit to occupy the Oval Office. As Black Americans have been denied basic human rights due to less offensive crimes, any attempt to advance Donald Trump's nomination for Presidency would be a gross advancement of white supremacist policy."

NAACP Launches Multi-Million Dollar Fund to Propel Voter Registration and Turnout Ahead of November

The NAACP has announced the official launch of their Building Community Voice Fund (BCVF). The non-partisan, multi-million dollar fund established by the NAACP to provide grants to 501(c)(3) voter registration and voter turnout initiatives and organizations, including complementary voter education and voter protection programs. 

Dominik Whitehead, NAACP Vice President of Campaigns shared the following statement:

"This year, The NAACP is laser-focused through our robust civic engagement work. As we mobilize 13.5 million Black voters across 12 priority states, we recognize the power of investing directly in community. The Building Community Voice Fund will provide crucial resources to our grassroots organizations, ensuring that Black Americans are informed and engaged around pivotal local elections that are too often overlooked. Together, we will ensure that democracy prevails and Black voices are heard loud and clear."

Our research shows that targeted investment in state groups have positive effects on Black voters' daily lives. With a continued commitment to the BCVF program, the NAACP aims to delve deeper into defining the impact of investing in competitive races in both competitive and progressive counties.

"In many Black communities, a lack of resources directly contributes to low voter registration and subsequent election turnout," said Brittany Smith, Program Director of the NAACP Building Community Voice Fund. "The BCVF program is critical for Black Americans to have a voice in this crucial upcoming election and beyond."

To learn more about the NAACP's Building Community Voice Fund, visit our website.

NAACP Leads Call for Presidential Pardon of Marilyn Mosby

The NAACP led 14 civil rights organizations in sending a letter to President Joe Biden requesting a presidential pardon of former Baltimore City State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby. Mosby is facing up to 40 years in federal prison when sentenced on May 23, 2024. The call from civil rights organizations echoes rallying cries from activists, advocates, and concerned citizens who believe Mosby has been unfairly targeted and unjustly convicted. 

Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO issued the following statement:

"We've watched, decade after decade, as Black Americans have faced wrongful prosecution at the hands of those who seek to promote injustice. The only thing Marilyn Mosby is guilty of is the desire to provide her family with a better life. The sad reality is, as Black women take their rightful places in positions of power, dark forces seek to tear down both their progress, and that of our community. The NAACP refuses to stand idly by as injustice takes the wheel, driving us down a path of further disparity. We are proud to stand alongside our partners in calling on President Biden and the Department of Justice to reemphasize their commitment to racial equity by pardoning Attorney Mosby. Enough is enough. It's time to stand with Black women."

Following her push to prosecute officers involved in the death of Freddie Gray, Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby found herself at the center of a politically motivated "fraud" case for withdrawing funds from her own retirement account. Since her conviction in February, there have been growing calls for the Biden Administration to intervene, alleging a complete miscarriage of justice. 

Excerpts from the letter include:

• "We are deeply concerned that the last administration abused their power to advance a meritless indictment against Ms. Mosby…"
• "Her courageous commitment to justice made her a target of admiration and punishment."
• "…739 individuals withdrew funds from their retirement accounts without being charged for improper withdrawals, including three within her agency."
• "We expect that political persecutions and malicious prosecutions pursued during the Trump Administration would not continue in the Biden Administration."
• "We ask that you grant a full pardon to Ms. Marilyn Mosby before May 23, 2024, and restore her full rights."

Signers include; Black to the Future Action Fund, Black Voters Matter, Black Women's Roundtable, Color of Change, Fair and Just Prosecution, National Action Network, National Bar Association, National Black Justice Coalition, National Black Law Students Association, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, National Council of Negro Women, National Urban League, Until Freedom and World Without Genocide. 

For access to the full letter, visit this link.

NAACP Calls for DOJ Investigation into Suspicious Death of Mississippi Black Man

The NAACP sent a letter to the Department of Justice urging an investigation into the suspicious death of 37 year-old Jackson, Mississippi resident, Dau Mabil. The letter echoes previous requests from Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) urging Attorney General Merrick Garland and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Kristine Clarke, to open an investigation into Dau's mysterious disappearance.

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement:

"Today, the NAACP stands with the Mabil family and the broader Jackson community in mourning the loss of Dau Mabil. It is our hope that the recovery of Dau's body will allow his family to grieve while we fight for justice. Dau's life mattered, and everything must be done to ensure that his tragic death receives the investigative due diligence it deserves. It is unacceptable that for weeks, the Mississippi Capitol Police havefailed to follow the basic fact patterns while delaying the course of justice. We are disgusted, but not surprised. This is not the first time that Capitol police have neglected the Black Jacksonians they supposedly serve.

The NAACP is not backing down from this fight. We call on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to act swiftly and put us on a path toward justice for this tragic loss of life. Dau, his family, and our community deserve action, transparency, and accountability."

A copy of the letter sent to the Department of Justice can be found here. Excerpts include:

"... I write to request that the Department of Justice open an investigation into the disappearance and death of Dau Garang Mabil of Jackson, Mississippi."

"The NAACP has a longstanding commitment to holding law enforcement accountable…"

"… there appears to have been a concerning amount of irregularities associated with the Capitol Police's investigation."

"Today, our hearts are with the family of Dau Mabil as we grieve the loss of another Black life lost far too soon. Black Jacksonians are under attack from a racist political landscape while being occupied by outside forces who rule over, but fail to protect, or invest in our community,"said Nsombi Lambright, President, Jackson Branch of the NAACP. "We demand action and answers. In the wake of neglect from the Capitol police force, it is imperative that our local and federal law enforcement deliver justice for Dau. Enough is enough. The Jackson branch of the NAACP remains committed to shedding light on injustice and working to prevent tragedies like this one." 

On March 25, 2024, Dau Mabil was reported missing by his wife, Karissa Bowley, who had last seen him at noon. The case was assigned to the Capitol Police as the residence fell within their jurisdiction of Jackson, which was recently expanded by controversial legislation, HB 1020. 

Over the course of the following two weeks, the Jackson Police Department, and State Capitol Police ran two parallel investigations, with Capitol police leading on the case due to recently expanded jurisdiction as a result of anti-Democratic legislation passed in 2023. 

Throughout the course of their investigation, Capitol police repeatedly failed to follow standard operating procedures that would have supported a more expeditious progression of the case. Although a body was found in the Pearl River on Saturday, April 13, Dau Mabil's brother was not brought in for DNA testing until April 15, nor had he been allowed to view the body as of Thursday, April 18. 

On April 18, following the Sheriff's public announcement and confirmation of Dau's death, the NAACP sent a letter to the Department of Justice calling for an investigation into the disappearance and death of Dau Mabil to ensure that any failure by the Capitol Police to swiftly and thoroughly investigate this matter does not deprive Mr. Mabil's family and his community of the answers and the justice they deserve.