NAACP New York State Conference News & Events

On January 15, 2010, the NAACP New York State Conference launched Yes We Count 2010 Census Campaign; the launch program was entitled “Make King Day Count.”  The NAACP National office has mandated that NAACP units in every state vigorously campaign to make sure that every American participates in the U.S. Census. Every 10 years, the U.S. government conducts a survey of the population by sending a short questionnaire by mail to every household in the country. While low-income families and communities of color stand the most to benefit from the Census count, they are often less likely to participate.

Participation is crucial, particularly for vulnerable communities. Every person counted-or not counted-in a community impacts ten years of federal funds, political representation, public infrastructure and private investment. Here is what is at stake:

• Federal Funds: For each 100 people not counted, a community risks losing an estimated $1.2 million over the next decade for federally funded programs including: Medicaid, public housing assistance, child health programs, Head Start, transit programs, and more.

• Political Representation: States use census numbers to redraw all political boundaries and determine which states gain or lose representation, including Congressional Districts, state house and senate districts for city councils, school committees and county board.

• Public Infrastructure: All levels of government rely on census numbers to locate vital public works like schools, health centers, public transportation, highways, and affordable housing.

• Private Investment: Businesses large and small use census numbers to identify new markets, select sites for operations, make investment decisions and determine the goods and services offered.

When families do not participate in the census, it means their communities lose access to money, resources and power. In the weeks ahead we will bring you more information on how you can get involved. Together, we can make sure all Americans count.

The first National Board Meeting will be held in New York City, February 18-20, 2010 at the New York Hilton Hotel.

The NAACP New York State Conference of Branches, recipients of the 1st and 3rd Place 2009 Lucille Black Awards for highest total membership production.
The NAACP New York State Conference of Branches, recipients of the 2009 National Membership Lay Down Award for highest membership production January 1, 2009 through June 30, 2009.

In June 2009 Hazel N. Dukes was conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from the Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York.  In recognition of her dedication and commitment to the service of human needs.
Hazel N. Dukes recipient of the Twenty-Second Annual Kelly Miller Alexander, Sr. NAACP State Conference President’s Award at the 100th National NAACP Convention, New York City, July 2009.
Hazel N. Dukes, recipient of the National Action Network’s 2009 Reverend Dr. William A Jones Justice Award