An evening of inspiration, information, empowerment and entertainment was presented to virtual guests on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021 as the JMC-NAACP presented its 58th Freedom Fund Gala . The event, live streamed from the St.Paul CME began with the Welcome and Presentation of Dr. Martha Robinson who served Mistress Of Ceremonies.
The eloquent Dr. Robinson guided the program with the introduction of the 2021 Freedom Fund Co-Chairs, Mrs. Alicia Brooks and Mr. David Carter who were followed by the The Black National Anthem and another selection given by the Lane College Choir under the direction of Professor Alexis Rainbow. Following the choir's outstanding performance , Mr. Javonte Mahone, President of the TN State Youth and College Division delivered the invocation followed by greetings from Mr. Derrick Johnson/President CEO of the NAACP and The Honorable Scott Conger/Mayor Of the City Of Jackson. Mrs. Patricia Porter then presented the 2021 NAACP Freedom Fund Awardees:
Medgar Evers legacy Award-Dr. Joe Mays
Youth Excellence Award Mr. Jah'Karious Conley
Jo Helen Imani Beard Community Service Award-Dr.Mechelle Taylor Moragne
William D. Smart Race Relations Award-Mr. Matthew Marshall
Meritorious Service to the Branch Award- Mrs. Daphne Nelson
The Rising Phoenix Award- Mr. JoVante Mahone
Mr. David Carter followed with the Salute To The Armed Forces then Mrs. Gloria Sweet-Love/TN Conference President introduced the keynote speaker Dr. Gina Stewart. Dr .Stewart's powerful delivery was laser focused on the 2021 Freedom Fund theme Demanding Justice. The Celebrated Lane College choir brought another selection to enhance Dr. Stewart's delivery followed by a heartfelt Membership Appeal brought by Membership Chair -Mr. Murphy McKinney As the evening concluded, Mr. Harrell Carter/JMC-NAACP President issued the Challenge and Closing Remarks and Rev. William Cole gave the Benediction just as the Benediction ended, CME Bishop Williamson paid a welcome surprise visit and briefly,but fervently addressed the audience on the importance of the NAACP and then made a generous financial contribution to the JMC-NAACP Branch.
The gala event concluded with rowsing rendition of "Freedom" by the Lane College Choir and St. Paul's CME pastor,Dr. Claude Bass delivered the closing prayer.
