06/28/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/28/2024 09:25
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]
WASHINGTON - Thursday evening, presidential candidates, Joseph R. Biden Jr., (D) and Donald Trump (R) met for the first debate ahead of the November elections. This debate offered a crucial opportunity for both candidates to display their dedication to prioritizing substantive solutions to the most pressing concerns for Black America.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson shared the following reaction:
"Last night's debate made one thing clear - there is much work to be done. For over a century, the NAACP has worked tirelessly to ensure Black voices are heard in every election. This year is no different. The topics from this evening's debate including health care, reproductive rights and debt relief, made it clear why it is imperative to elect leaders capable of taking decisive action to address the issues of importance to the Black community. Ahead of our 115th National Convention this July, we have extended an invitation to both candidates to present their plans to advance solutions through substantive policy platforms. It is crucial that any candidate seeking votes from our community conveys genuine commitment to our progress. The success or failure of our democracy's advancement is at stake. Let's focus on attacking the issues, not each other."
Key takeaways from last night's debate include:
For over a century, the NAACP has worked to educate, engage, and mobilize one of the largest and most influential voting blocs in our nation. This election season, we are investing millions of dollars directly in our communities to ensure Black America is prepared to cast effective ballots in November.
For more information on our voter mobilization work, please visit our website.
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.