General Meetings are Open to the Public!
Meetings are held every third Tuesday of each month
At 6:30pm at the King Kennedy Memorial Center:
601 Martin Luther King Dr, Modesto, CA 95351
Our Mission
The mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.
The Modesto-Stanislaus Branch works locally to pursue this mission through advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Our Vision
We envision a society in which all individuals have equal rights without discrimination based on race, and where our community celebrates diversity and inclusion.
A Message from Wendy Byrd, President of the NAACP
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The recent elections, along with troubling decisions from the Supreme Court, remind us that democracy is fragile and under attack. We have witnessed setbacks on affirmative action, voting rights, and protections for our communities—proof that hard-won freedoms can be chipped away if we are not vigilant. And now, we are also witnessing the dangerous use of federal power as National Guard troops are deployed into cities led by African American mayors. This is not just politics; it is a direct assault on civil rights and democratic self-governance.
Since 1909, the NAACP has shown what happens when ordinary people step into
extraordinary responsibility. Those before us faced voter suppression, segregation, and
open hostility—yet they organized, marched, voted, and built movements that reshaped
history. Today, it is our turn. Leadership cannot rest in the hands of a few; democracy
depends on all of us. It is truly all hands-on deck.
That means registering voters ahead of the 2026 midterms. It means mentoring our young
people to carry this struggle forward. It means running for local office and showing up at
school boards, city halls, and county boards where decisions affecting our daily lives are
made. And it means strengthening the NAACP—by every member recruiting at least three others who believe in justice and equality. Our silence is their victory; our participation is the answer.
Setbacks are not the end of the story. History teaches us that each challenge can become the spark for a greater victory. Those who work to roll back our rights are counting on our
fatigue and despair. Instead, we must meet this moment with courage and action. Don’t sit
out—step up. Don’t despair—organize. Don’t wait for permission—lead.
To those who ran for office this year, we honor your courage. Whether you won or not, you advanced our principles and reminded us that change begins locally. Your example calls us all to greater service.
The NAACP has stood strong for 116 years. We will not retreat now. We will outlast this
moment—and together we will protect democracy and build the future our people deserve.
Peace & blessing’s
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Dear NAACP Family,
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Dedication.Passion
UPCOMING COMING EVENTS
Join us at our upcoming events and be part of the change in our community
This Is an American Issue
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The backbone of American society isn't wealth — it's us: the people.
Regardless of one's race or ethnicity, programs like Social Security,
Medicare/Medicaid, SNAP, and Veterans benefits provide a lifeline to millions of Americans, ensuring that those who have sacrificed and contributed so much to our nation receive the support they deserve. As lawmakers are
considering drastic cuts to vital programs, and we must act swiftly to stop it.
Government funding decisions should not hurt the elderly, veterans, or those
benefitting from Social Security. Cutting these essential lifelines to fund yet
another billionaire tax break is unacceptable and is un-American.
Protect Our Safety Programs
The proposed "Big Beautiful Budget" bill is anything but. Under it, social safety programs like healthcare, Medicaid, SNAP, and more at risk of being cut in this. The safety of our people and our children are not partisan issues. They are as American as our democracy, the Constitution, and yes — even apple pie.
These fundamental values should never be bargaining chips as elected officials shape federal policies and agencies. The quality of life of our most vulnerable neighbors is non-negotiable when it comes to cuts.
The Senate is in session, inching the budget closer to adoption. Call your senator and tell them to vote NO: (202) 224-3121
Robert Rose, Product Designer
Have you experienced a hate incident or crime? Get support now.
We are proud to stand with California vs Hate – a non-emergency reporting program for anyone in California to report hate incidents or crimes and get connected to support services. Whether it’s a hate incident or crime, your voice matters.
Why is reporting important?
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When you report to CA vs Hate, you can get connected to support services, including legal aid, mental health support, and community assistance in your local area.
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It strengthens our community! Reporting helps raise awareness about what’s happening in our communities. When you report, you make your voice heard. Our stories matter and can help stop the normalization of hate.
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When you report a hate incident, you can help prevent future incidents.
Know Your Rights
Both the California Constitution and the First Amendment to the United States Constitution protect your right to free expression. However, police and other government officials are allowed to place certain narrow restrictions on the exercise of speech rights.
Choose from the scenarios below to make sure you’re prepared before heading out into the streets.
AFRICAN AMERICAN GRADUATE RECOGNITION CEREMONY
FREEDOM FUND
2025
On behalf of the Modesto/Stanislaus NAACP, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your support of our annual Freedom Fund & Community Service Awards Banquet, held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Modesto Centre Plaza.
Your generous contribution played an important role in helping us celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of local leaders and organizations who continue to make a meaningful impact in our community. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in advancing the mission of equity, justice, and progress.
Thank you once again for your support. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
There’s still time to apply for NAACP Inspire Initiatives Scholarships, but the application period closes on April 11, 2025 — and we need your help to ensure every eligible student takes advantage of this opportunity.
If you know a Black student or student of color in need of financial assistance for college, please encourage them to apply. Whether they’re a high school senior preparing for their next step or a current student furthering their education, these scholarships can help lighten the financial burden.
Available scholarships include:
If you’ve already applied, we encourage you to share this opportunity with your friends, classmates, and community. Let’s work together to make sure every deserving student has a chance to succeed.
To the vibrant and resilient LGBTQ+ community, the California vs. Hate Campaign stands firmly by your side. Your courage in the face of adversity and your unwavering authenticity inspire us all.
Together, we fight against hate and discrimination to ensure a world where love and acceptance triumph over prejudice. Your voices, your stories, and your experiences are essential in this journey.
Let’s continue to support each other, celebrate our diversity, and create a California where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, is free to live and love openly and proudly.
2025 OFFICERS
WENDY BYRD
PRESIDENT
CONSTANCE GUSTAFSON
1ST VICE PRESIDENT
SAMUEL WHITE-EPHRAIM
2ND VICE PRESIDENT
ERIC JACKSON
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Gladys Williams
Sherri Nelson
Christopher Nelson
Juanita Gaillard
Jacquelyn Forte
Michael Baldwin
Sharon Froba
Angela Dallas
Terry Johnson
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SECRETARY
GIA SMITH
TREASURER
WE THANK THE EXECUTIVE MEMBERS FOR THEIR TIRELESS ENERGY AND HARD WORK TOWARD IMPROVING THE LIVES OF OTHERS!
VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOMED!
“Black residents experienced disproportionate use of force by Modesto police over past decade.”
Over the past decade, the Modesto Police Department has used force against Black individuals at a rate of more than four times greater than their population, according to police data.
“Reporting on disproportionate uses of force against people of color makes clear what communities of color across California and the country have long known. Police violence is a tool of racial oppression,” said....
"If you feel you have been treated unfairly by the Modesto Police Department, fill out an NAACP COMPLAINT FORM"
NAACP response letter to the Modesto Bee article on disproportionate use of force.
Modesto City Council approves Forward Together recommendation to establish a Citizens Review Board with an Independent Auditor to help improve relations between the community and law enforcement. Read More at ModBee...
