Last week’s RANT generated some significant attention when community leaders fiercely came to the defense of the Riverside NAACP and its president Woodie Rucker-Hughes. I heard only positive comments in support of Ms. Rucker-Hughes and her leadership of the branch and the only outrage seemed to be directly squarely at the individual or individuals who dared to target the civil rights organization for their own political agenda.
According to the chapter, the Freedom Fund Gala being held on Wednesday at the Riverside Convention Center is close to selling-out. I spoke to Lea Peterson, Public Affairs Manager for The Gas Company, a lifetime member of the NAACP and corporate sponsor of the gala. She said The Gas Company would be increasing its sponsorship this year, and then offered thoughts that I heard echoed by others in the community:
“I have always admired the excellent work Woodie Rucker-Hughes & her dedicated Riverside NAACP committee perform leading an organization that insures the political equality of all citizens, helping to remove barriers through democratic processes and keeping the public informed of their legal rights.
It is important to recognize the dedication and skill of Woodie’s advocacy on behalf of the community. Keeping her eye on issues and finger on the pulse of the needs of the community always placing the mission of the NAACP first. It is very disheartening to see personal attacks under the guise of political campaigning that attempt to tear down these positive selfless efforts.”
If you haven’t purchased your ticket for the Freedom Fund Gala it’s not too late. Consider this my invitation for you to join us there: www.naacp-riverside.org/event/2014-freedom-fund-celebration
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