The Greater Hartford chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) hosted its 106th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on September 28, 2023, in Hartford, Connecticut.
With the theme of “Thriving Together: Towards Equity and Change,” the evening was a remarkable blend of inspiration, camaraderie, and a collective commitment to fostering a more equitable society. Dr. Gregory J. Vincent, president of Talladega College, served as keynote speaker.
Vincent delivered an empowering speech, taking the audience on a journey through the impactful history of the NAACP and delved into past and current civil rights issues. He reminded attendees of the significant role the organization has played in advocating for a wide spectrum of human rights and equality for all while tirelessly working to eradicate injustice.
In his keynote address, Vincent stated, “Make no mistake, 114 years after the founding of the NAACP, we find ourselves still working toward the core objectives of that organization: political, educational, social, and economic equality for all, eliminating racial discrimination, securing civil and constitutional rights.”
Reflecting on the ongoing struggle for equality, Vincent highlighted, “While we have made immense strides, the journey is far from over. We must never forget that every step we take towards equality is a step towards a better future for us all.”
His speech was a powerful reminder of the essential work the NAACP continues to do. “There is no doubt that we face daunting challenges," Vincent said, "But together, unified in purpose and fortified by our shared commitment, we can and will effect meaningful change.”
Vincent went on to share that, as an HBCU president, he experiences the brilliance and talents of students of color on a daily basis. He spoke about HBCUs being safe havens, giving bright minds opportunities they sometimes don’t receive in other settings. As a callout, he noted one HBCU graduate, a Talladegan, who, after graduating, left the segregated south to make bold and audacious moves in the legal profession.
“George Williamson Crawford was a graduate of an HBCU—Talladega College—where I am honored to serve as president. Crawford was a native of Alabama but could not attend law school there because of Jim Crow laws. After graduating from Talladega in 1900, he was admitted to the Yale Law School,” said Vincent. “Throughout his nearly 69-year legal career, Mr. Crawford was an outstanding advocate and public servant. He lived in Connecticut until his death in 1972.”
As the event drew to a close, Vincent left the audience with a resonating thought, “So, my message is to go and fight the good fight—make good trouble, as the late Rep. John Lewis said. We have much work to do to continue the invaluable, brave work started by the many heroes of the NAACP and Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s.”
