"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
The National Association of Colored People...better known as the N-double-A-C-P... has played and continues to play a major role to obtain justice for African Americans.
But in a world where there is still racial tension, it's sad to say Charlotte... the largest city in North Carolina... is not on board with the oldest and largest civil rights organization in the country.
The chapter here dissolved years ago, after the Alexander family ran it successfully for decades.
It doesn't matter what happened... but rather how it can get started again.
Recently, during the N-double-A-C-P's 100th year anniversary celebration in New York, officials said a reorganization would take place this month in Charlotte.
They said a chapter will be up and running by October.
We want NAACP leaders to stick to their word.
Why?
Because the organization is not just for blacks.
All races have joined the group to ensure that equal employment opportunities, voting rights and other rights happen for ALL citizens.
America, including Charlotte, has come a long way in understanding diversity.
But the battle is far from over.
An N-double-A-C-P chapter in Charlotte will not only empower our neighbors...
It will hopefully make people think twice before committing acts of racial hatred.
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" - tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
