The Greater Hartford NAACP: The Next 100 Years

The Greater Hartford Branch of the NAACP celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017. What does its future hold? This multi-faceted event co-hosted by the Greater Hartford Branch and CMCH will explore this question.

In a panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Stacey Close, Associate Vice President for Equity and Diversity at Eastern Connecticut State University, leaders and members of the Greater Hartford Branch will ponder the past, present and future of the organization.

Connecticut authors Lorna Little, LaToya B. McPherson, The Honorable Thirman L. Milner, Dr. Gary Rhule, William “Rab” Smith, Dr. Gloria F. Perry, and Barbara Beeching will be available during the event to discuss and sign copies of their work. Copies of their work will be available for sale.

In addition, the evening will feature selections from The Costen Cultural Exhibit, curated by photojournalist and collector Bill Costen. The Costen Cultural Exhibit is a vibrant showcase of memorabilia documenting the African American experience.

This event is free and open to the public, but please RSVP by Feb. 19 at rsvp@chs.org or by calling (860) 236-5621 x238. Questions? Contact Adult Programs Manager Natalie Belanger at natalie_belanger@chs.org or call 860-236-5621 ext. 289.

About the Panelists

Imam Abdul-Shahid Muhammad Ansari, currently the President of the Greater Hartford Branch of the NAACP, Treasurer of the Greater Hartford African American Alliance, and former Executive Director of the Open Hearth Association.

Donna Campbell, CT State Commissioner for Equity and Opportunity (CEO) and Membership chair of the Greater Hartford Branch of the NAACP.

Dr. Benjamin Foster Jr., Adjunct Professor of African American Studies at Central Connecticut State University and Convener, Institute for Cross-Cultural Awareness and Transformative Education, and educational consultant.

Joan Harrison Gibson, CT Secretary of the State Elections Officer, former Greater Hartford Branch President, and former First Vice President of the CT NAACP State Conference.

Pastor A.J. Johnson, pastor of Hartford’s Urban Hope Refuge Church, community educator, and founder of Small Business Night Out.

The Honorable Thirman L. Milner, three-term mayor of Hartford, State Representative, State Senator, Past President of the Greater Hartford Branch of the NAACP.