You are invited to join us! On Saturday, October 24th, 2026, the Monroe County Branch NAACP will hold its 45h Freedom Fund Banquet. Funds raised from the dinner financially support the branch’s activities such as the Scholarship Program for local high school seniors, public forums on significant civil rights issues, and community programs that advance the mission of the NAACP. This year’s theme is We, The People...

The 2026 President's Award: Dr. Audrey McCluskey

Each year, the Monroe County Branch NAACP president selects a person to recognize for their special achievements and distinguished public service. This year's honoree for the President's Award is Dr. Audrey McCluskey! Dr. McCluskey is professor emerita at Indiana University-Bloomington where she taught and conducted research in several fields including Gender Studies,African American Cultural History ,Media, Representation, and the lives and work of Black women educators. Her academic work has centered on African American cultural history, media representation, and the lives of Black women educators. As a writer, educator, and public intellectual, she has played a vital role in illuminating the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans, particularly women, to the nation’s educational and social foundations.

Our 2026 Keynote Speaker: Mr. Denzil Ross

The keynote speaker for the 2026 Banquet is Mr. Denzil Ross. Mr. Ross joined IU Health as president of the South Region in February 2024. In this role, he leads strategic and operational avenues for IU Health Bloomington, IU Health Bedford Hospital, IU Health Morgan, IU Health Paoli Hospital, and over 60 ambulatory clinics and joint ventures encompassing more than 5,000 team members in seven counties.

About the Monroe County Branch of the NAACP

The NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is a leading civil rights organization dedicated to ensuring political, educational, social, and economic equality for all individuals, while working to eliminate race-based discrimination. Founded in 1909, the NAACP has been at the forefront of key movements for justice, advocating for voting rights, fair housing, criminal justice reform, and equal opportunity. Through grassroots activism, legal action, and community empowerment, the organization strives to create a society where everyone can thrive.

The Monroe County Branch of the NAACP is a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization. Your ticket purchases, sponsorships, ad purchases, and donations support our critical advocacy, organizing, and policy work. Though not tax-deductible, your support of the NAACP is one of the most powerful investments you can make in the fight for justice and equality.

More information about the Monroe County Branch of the NAACP may be found at https://www.mcbnaacp.org/ or by contacting contact@mcbnaacp.org

We, The People...

2026 Monroe County Branch NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet