Dayton NAACP Marks 111 Years of Advocacy as Hall of Freedom Awards Approach

As the organization prepares for its 75th Hall of Freedom Awards, rising discrimination complaints and voter engagement efforts underscore its continuing role in the community.

By Dayton Weekly News Staff

DAYTON, Ohio — More than a century after its founding, the Dayton Unit of the NAACP continues to confront familiar challenges while responding to new concerns about discrimination, civil rights and civic participation.

The organization, established in 1915, will celebrate its 111-year history during the 75th Hall of Freedom Awards on Friday, October 23, at the Dayton Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Standing Strong Together!”, reflects the organization’s emphasis on collective action and community responsibility.

Dr. Derrick L. Foward, president of the Dayton Unit NAACP, says the annual celebration serves a dual purpose of recognizing individuals who have contributed to the advancement of civil rights, while generating essential financial support for the organization’s ongoing work.

Unlike many nonprofit organizations, the Dayton branch operates without paid staff. Volunteers manage its programs, advocacy efforts and day-to-day operations from its headquarters at 915 Salem Avenue, a building the organization acquired in 2020.

This year’s Hall of Freedom Awards will feature Leon W. Russell, chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors, as a special guest.

The celebration will also introduce a Civil Rights Hall of Fame Award, recognizing individuals whose contributions have advanced civil rights and social justice. Foward said four individuals would be inducted into the inaugural class.

Alongside its annual recognition program, the Dayton branch continues efforts to develop future leaders through youth engagement, adviser training and opportunities for community participation.

While the Hall of Freedom Awards celebrate progress, the branch’s recent activity illustrates why its mission remains relevant.

According to the organization’s June 2026 newsletter, the Dayton Unit NAACP investigated 26 discrimination complaints that month, representing a 62.5% increase compared with the same period the previous year.

Employment discrimination accounted for the largest share of complaints at 23.08%, followed by housing discrimination and discrimination involving public businesses, each representing 15.38%. Police misconduct and allegations involving false charges were also among the reported categories.

The figures reflect complaints investigated by the organization, rather than independently established findings of discrimination.

Beyond individual complaints, the branch has engaged in discussions surrounding public safety, surveillance technology and the use of automated license plate readers. These conversations reflect broader community concerns about accountability, privacy and the relationship between residents and law enforcement.

The organization is also preparing for its November 1 branch leadership election, which is an opportunity for members to help shape its direction.

Encouraging Participation Beyond Election Day

With the November 3 general election approaching, voter education has become another priority.

The Dayton NAACP has supported voter registration activities, participated in candidate forums and promoted nonpartisan voter engagement. Its outreach includes billboards encouraging residents to exercise their right to vote.

The branch’s September 28 candidate forum at Grace United Methodist Church provided an opportunity for community members to hear from candidates and consider issues affecting local residents, including property taxes and fairness in the courts.

For Foward, civic participation extends beyond casting a ballot. During an October 13 interview with Dayton Weekly News, he emphasized the importance of remaining engaged with elected officials and public institutions after elections conclude.

That commitment will continue with a planned November 10 event, Beyond Voting, at the Dayton Convention Center, bringing community organizations together to encourage sustained civic involvement.

After 111 years, the Dayton Unit NAACP’s work remains rooted in the simple principle that progress requires more than celebrating past achievements. It demands continued participation, accountability and a willingness to address the challenges facing the community today.

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For information about membership, programs or civil rights concerns, contact the Dayton Unit NAACP at (937) 222-2172 or visit naacpdayton.org.