NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) at the University of West Georgia is an organization that facilitates the progression of all students on campus.
NAACP at UWG started in 2005. Their mission is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights for all students and to eliminate racial hatred and discrimination. Students on campus can benefit from this organization by creating bonds and meeting new students.
“I hope that NAACP as a union can bring awareness to our black community and also allow them to feel a part of something and give them a chance to have themselves heard,” said event coordinator Hirie Abbajebel. NAACP increases student involvement and also give students the opportunity to earn community service hours. “It not only helps the community but helps better the individuals that partake in the organization,” said Vice President Briana Boykin.
There are currently 60 paid members of the organization and a large amount of non-paid supporters. To become a member of NAACP on-campus, you must first be currently enrolled as a student at UWG. Enrolled students must be present at a meeting and fill out a national membership sheet. Members must pay a fee of $15. Most of the events take place in the Campus Center or Bonner Lecture Hall, however this year NAACP’s goal is to hold events throughout the entire campus.
Many of the student members of NAACP take on tasks to keep the organization effective in regards to planning events, and seeking new members.
Having disciplined leaders is crucial to the success of NAACP at UWG. “Although I may hold the title of event coordinator, it does not mean that I do not have other responsibilities,” said Abbajebel. “If and when any of the other e-board members need help, it is my job to be of assistance.” Students are able to feel what it is like to be a leader and are disciplined in staying on top of their studies while researching and finding topics to bring awareness for other students.
NAACP allows student members to express themselves while coming up with solutions to fix what may be wrong in the society. NAACP believes that what matter’s is that the students’ voices are heard on different issues. “I, along with the rest of the colored community, as well as the minority voices, will be heard. The ones that aren’t necessarily ignored, but may just not possess enough in themselves to speak out on what they believe in,” said Abbajebel.
