Washington, D.C. — The NAACP released the following statement regarding the hostile characterization of the protests–Race and Violence in Our Cities–in the upcoming presidential debate.
The mischaracterization of what transpired in this country over the last several months creates a false and dangerous narrative around what democracy looks like in America. The current framing steers people away from the relevant conversation we should have about police brutality, systemic oppression, racial injustice, and police officer’s role in our society. Instead, we are setting the stage for the vilification of non-violent political and social movements, such as Black Lives Matter (BLM), that seek accountability for the injustices Black Americans have suffered at the hands of our justice system.
During this debate, we hope to hear our urgent concerns about Black people’s lives and their treatment in this country addressed. The poorly veiled attempt to shift the public discourse and scrutiny away from the cause of the peaceful protest is a tactic to deceive people about the origin of the violence and where it is directed.
We must meet this moment with collective power that sends a message about our real concerns. From a viable COVID-19 response to economic insecurities to racial injustice, the issues and conversations that need to be addressed are missing from the public dialogue.
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About NAACP
Founded in 1909 in response to the ongoing violence against Black people around the country, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation. We have over 2,200 units and branches across the nation, along with well over 2M activists. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.
The NAACP is a c4 organization (contributions are not tax-deductible), and we have a partner c3 organization known as NAACP Empowerment Programs (contributions are fully tax-deductible as allowed by the IRS).
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation’s first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.
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