Assemblywoman Vanessa L. Gibson is Proud to Honor the NAACP on its 100th
Anniversary
Dear Neighbors:
The west Bronx is a diverse community with a unique energy all its own and the 77th
Assembly District is in the heart of it all. While more still needs to be done to improve our
community, we have good reason to be proud of our neighborhoods and I believe in honoring those who
have helped lay the groundwork for the progress we have made.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has a 100-year
history of fighting against prejudice, knocking down racial barriers and making a difference in the
lives of all New Yorkers. And during the week of July 11th - July 16th, 2009, the NAACP commemorated
its centennial with a celebration of "Bold Dreams & Big Victories" that was held in New York City.
Since its inception, the NAACP has tirelessly worked with thousands of community advocates
and residents across the nation to ensure that under served communities of color obtained access to
basic rights and a voice in the realms of public policy, education and social justice. And we can
not forget that the NAACP has worked to ensure that issues of racial injustice and inequality are
addressed to make democracy work for people of all races, colors, and ethnicities.
Overcoming many challenges and difficult obstacles, the NAACP has continued to gain strength
and promote awareness of key issues. The election of the first African American President of the
United States is a testament to the barriers that can be broken.
With the continued efforts of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
and other organizations working against the scourge of discrimination, our community can make even
more progress and open the doors of opportunity for everyone who lives in the 77th Assembly District.
I am taking this opportunity to honor the NAACP and all its chapters for their hard work and
efforts to put justice for all people at the top of the public policy agenda while continuing to be
an advocate for underserved communities in the Bronx and across the United States.
I offer my hearty congratulations and best wishes to Hazel Dukes, Todd Benjamin Jealous and
the NAACP on the occasion of this momentous centennial commemoration and look forward to your
continued success in the years to come.
Sincerely,
Vanessa L. Gibson
Member of Assembly