The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) hosted its 25th Black History celebration in Lake County on Sunday. Along with a program that celebrated achievements and advancements in civil rights, awards were presented honoring the achievements of individuals who have worked locally to bring equality to the people.
More than 200 people, representing multiple ethnic backgrounds, came together in harmony at the Clearlake Senior/Community Center to partake in “A Journey into Black History.” The celebration hosted an honorable set of speakers as well as musical and dramatic presentations.
“The community turned out in numbers and we really appreciate that,” said NAACP Lake County chapter Vice President Rick Mayo.
Opening the event, NAACP Lake County chapter President Aqeela Bakheit welcomed all to the venue with recognition of dignitaries present for the celebration. Guest speakers included Clearlake Mayor Judy Thein, who also presented the chapter with a proclamation from the city recognizing the significance of Black History and the continuing efforts of the NAACP. Other speakers included Dr. Linda Robinson, pastor of Praises of Zion Baptist Church; Senator Patricia Higgins, who enjoyed her first NAACP event in Lake County; and District 1 Supervisor Ed Robey, who is a lifetime member of the NAACP and has made speaking at the celebration an annual event. St. Elmo Mosby, Jr. delivered the “Martin Luther King” speech and Jeffrey Wright spoke of his personal African/American experience.
Music was provided by Mike Heintz & Friends, Beit Chavurah and David Neft. Voris Brumfield performed a dramatization in which she portrayed Martin Luther King”s mother, Alberta Williams King.
Prior to Reverend Sampson”s closing prayer, awards were presented to several individuals whose efforts have served for local advancements. Sampson”s son Alan accepted an award honoring the entire Sampson family for its continued support of the Lake County branch. Mae Nahmias also received the same award for her continual support. The highest honor presented by the local branch is the “Founder”s Trailblazer”s Award.” The award was bestowed upon Clearlake”s own Dorothy Myer. The award reads: “For your many years of outstanding and dedicated commitment toward the civil rights of all people.”
Following the program, guest enjoyed a hearty buffet of ethnic food deliciously prepared by Sister Woodard.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
