The NAACP Richmond Branch recognized local leaders and organizations for their work in civil rights and community service at its annual Community Engagement Recognition Banquet last week at Contra Costa College. This year’s event, MC’d by Rev. Aubry K. Williams Sr. of First A.M.E. Church, focused on the people bridging gaps between residents and essential services.
Branch President Willie Robinson presented the Life Member Award to Carl D. Adams, and also the President’s Award to three officers: Health Committee Chair Sarah L. Grant, Secretary John R. Stewart Jr., and Treasurer Kathie Breedlove-Brooks. Robinson highlighted their consistent dedication to the organization’s mission and their roles in maintaining the branch’s daily operations.
The branch also honored Chevron Richmond for providing essential resources that help the organization stay in operation and support the wider community. Robinson highlighted the company’s efforts in local environmental and regulatory programs, noting that the branch and the company collaborate through a community advisory group on initiatives including Assembly Bill 617 and Air District Board requirements.
“Chevron continues to bring vital resources to the community in a number of different fashions and also helps the NAACP to keep its doors open,” Robinson said.
Also recognized was the Bright Futures Growth and Development Center for its work supporting working parents. The center provides a reliable pipeline for families by transporting children to and from school and providing care until parents finish work. Also recognized was the African American Leadership Program at Contra Costa College. For over 20 years, the program has mentored students and hosted symposiums to help young men connect with educational and social resources.
Individual honors were given to Superintendent Cheryl Cotton and County Supervisor John Gioia. Cotton is a homegrown leader who grew up in Richmond and graduated from local schools before becoming the first permanent African American woman to serve as superintendent of the West Contra Costa Unified School District. Gioia was recognized for his work with the Office of Racial Injustice and the Federal Glover Holistic Network, which focus on supporting communities historically harmed by segregation and discrimination.
Robinson said leaders like Cotton and Gioia are critical in helping young residents navigate systems that have not historically supported African Americans. “The systems can be very frustrating to those navigating them,” Robinson said. “You are trying to put square pegs in a round hole.” He noted that these leaders help create the necessary space for young people to succeed.
The ceremony included testimonials from residents who received help from the NAACP. One centenarian shared how the organization and Supervisor Gioia intervened to help her navigate county housing issues. Another story featured a student who the NAACP assisted in joining a study trip to Africa; that student is now attending Morehouse University, historically Black university.
“To me it’s good always to celebrate,” Robinson stated. “You don’t want to forget the things of that past that’s negative, you also want to celebrate those achievements that have been done, where people don’t always have the opportunity to be recognized.”
The NAACP Richmond Branch intentionally chose Contra Costa College as the venue as it is a “jewel” in the community’s backyard, Robinson said. He noted that many local students do not always view the college as a primary option, and he wants the institution to serve as the central hub for training and education in Richmond. By holding the event there, Robinson aims to strengthen the connection between local youth and the academic resources available to them.
Check out video highlights from the ceremony by clicking here.
All photos in this piece are by K. Trass and The Advocate.
