Stockton Branch NAACP

Fighting For Freedom & Justice

The Stockton Branch of the NAACP works to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination.

Our Mission

The mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

The Stockton Branch of the NAACP has been serving our community since 1931, working tirelessly to address civil rights issues and promote equality for all residents.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS

Proposition 50 and California’s redistricting

Civic engagement was on full display this week as the NAACP Stockton Branch, alongside community partners, mobilized to oppose a resolution brought before the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors that targeted Proposition 50 and California’s redistricting process.

With a sense of urgency, speakers and advocates emphasized the importance of protecting the political influence of Black voters and strengthening an inclusive democracy for all communities. “The urgency of now” became the rallying cry, as voices across Stockton came together to push back against policies threatening fair representation.

The Board of Supervisors ultimately voted down the resolution in a 3–2 decision:

NO Votes: Chair Paul Canepa, Supervisor Mario Gardea, and Supervisor Sonny Dhaliwal
YES Votes: Supervisor Steven Ding (who introduced the resolution) and Supervisor Robert Rickman

The outcome was celebrated as a victory for equity and representation. NAACP Stockton expressed deep gratitude to everyone who showed up—whether in person or through written letters of support—to stand behind Proposition 50 and defend democratic fairness.

“This is what democracy looks like,” leaders reflected, underscoring the power of community participation and persistence. The call to action remains clear: Keep showing up.

Buffalo Foundation, Inc. of Arkadelphia, Arkansas “Hall of Fame”

LaJuana Johnson Bivens was honored with induction into the Buffalo Foundation, Inc. of Arkadelphia, Arkansas “Hall of Fame”—a recognition that celebrates her remarkable journey and contributions. The Buffalo Foundation’s mission is to preserve, collect, interpret, and celebrate the historical and notable achievements of African Americans in Clark County and Arkadelphia, AR.

For LaJuana, this honor was not just about personal achievement—it reflected the love, guidance, and unwavering support she has received throughout her life. She acknowledged her family, especially her grandparents Walter & Willie Smith, who raised her; her father Grover Johnson; her aunt Nancy Weaver; her sister Jean Adkins; her teachers, mentors, Greater Pleasant Hill Church, and the entire Arkadelphia community.

She shared that her early beginnings in Arkadelphia laid the foundation for all she has accomplished. It was there she first learned the power of advocacy, the value of education, the strength of community, and the importance of service.

LaJuana also expressed heartfelt thanks to her husband Bobby Bivens, their children, the NAACP Stockton Branch, NAACP CA-HI State Conference, NAACP National Board, her cousins, Greater Faith Baptist Church Family, the Class of 1970 classmates, her best friends Gracie & Debra, and her classmate, soror, and friend Shirley Wheeler Hayes—who served as keynote speaker and delivered a powerful “sneak peek” into history past.

In closing, LaJuana thanked the Arkadelphia community for their unwavering love and support, and the Buffalo Foundation for preserving a rich tradition of excellence and community.

“I am deeply honored,” she said.

JULY HIGHLIGHTS

The Urgency of Now: Reflections from the 116th National NAACP Convention

The 116th National NAACP Convention in Charlotte, NC exceeded all of our expectations under the powerful theme, “The Urgency of Now.” Together, we successfully passed key resolutions that will empower our Units to drive meaningful change in our communities, ensuring that the work we do today leaves a legacy for tomorrow.

As a proud representative of Region 1 on the NAACP Board of Directors, I am honored to leverage this role to create lasting impact and to elevate our units across the nation. This convention reminded us that now is the time to act boldly, organize strategically, and remain relentless in our pursuit of justice and equity.

Celebrating Our Youth Leaders

One of the highlights of the convention was witnessing the dedication and leadership of our youth, who continue to be the heartbeat of this movement. Our very own NAACP Stockton Youth Council exemplifies this commitment through their hard work and community engagement.

We are thrilled to share that Caleb Davie of the NAACP Stockton Youth Council received the National NYWC Emerging Leader Award, an honor presented during the Juanita Jackson Mitchell Youth Award Gala. Caleb’s leadership, dedication, and vision for equity are an inspiration to us all.

Congratulations, Caleb! We invite our entire NAACP community to join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved recognition. His achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the promise and power of our youth within the NAACP.

JUNE HIGHLIGHTS

Celebrating Our Youth Leaders and NAACP Impact

Stockton Chapter Hosts Transformative Teen SummitThe NAACP Stockton Branch continues to invest in the next generation of leaders through impactful programming, including our recent that equipped youth with the tools and confidence to lead in their communities. This summit is part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing informed, engaged, and empowered young leaders who are ready to take action on the issues that matter most.

The NAACP Stockton Branch continues to invest in the next generation of leaders through impactful programming, including our recent Teen Summit that equipped youth with the tools and confidence to lead in their communities. This summit is part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing informed, engaged, and empowered young leaders who are ready to take action on the issues that matter most.

Electrifying Presentation to SUSD Trustees

Tonight, Amaya (NAACP Stockton Youth President) and Laila (1st Vice President) electrified the Stockton Unified School District Superintendent and Trustees with an extraordinary presentation on their Day at the Capitol experience. They expressed profound gratitude to SUSD for their unwavering support in transporting students to Sacramento to engage in legislative activities.

During this visit, students had the life-changing opportunity to meet with legislators and refine their public speaking skills while advocating for impactful legislation such as “Restore The Delta.” Thank you to these exceptional youth representatives for your uplifting presentation and for embodying the spirit of advocacy and civic engagement in front of the Board.

Reflections from the 116th National NAACP Convention

The 116th National NAACP Convention in Charlotte, NC exceeded all expectations under the powerful theme, “The Urgency of Now.” We successfully passed critical resolutions that will empower our Units to drive meaningful change in the communities we serve.

As a representative of Region 1 on the NAACP Board of Directors, I am honored to leverage this role to elevate our Units and drive lasting impact. This convention reminded us that there is no better time than now to organize, act, and remain steadfast in our commitment to justice.

Honoring Our Rising Leader: Caleb Davie

A highlight of the convention was witnessing the dedication and leadership of our youth. The NAACP Stockton Youth Council continues to exemplify commitment, vision, and excellence, and we are proud to share that Caleb Daviereceived the National NYWC Emerging Leader Award during the Juanita Jackson Mitchell Youth Award Gala.

Caleb’s leadership and dedication to advocacy inspire us all, and his recognition is a testament to the promise and power of our youth within the NAACP.

Congratulations, Caleb! We encourage everyone to join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved honor.

MAY HIGHLIGHTS

Powerful Turnout for NAACP / AKA / BWOPA Day at the Capitol

In a powerful demonstration of unity and purpose, the CA/HI NAACP State Conference, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) came together for a successful and inspiring Day at the Capitol.

With one collective voice, we advocated for policies that protect and uplift our communities. The energy, passion, and purpose behind our presence made it clear: voting is vital—but being actively engaged in the policymaking process is equally critical.

Special thanks to Rick Callender, President of the CA/HI NAACP State Conference; Nicole Star Jordan, FWR Director; and Dessie Woods, BWOPA Honorary President, for your leadership and the unwavering support of your organizations. Thank you to our esteemed guests who attended, and especially our NAACP National staff from Washington, DC. We had fifty plus youth from Stockton, CA in attendance. Very special thank you to our State Assembly member Rhodesia Ransom for your continuous support.

Together, we are stronger—and together, we are driving change.

APRIL HIGHLGHTS

Grab a Copy of Event Magazine

What a powerful and spirit-filled morning we experienced at the 2025 NAACP Stockton/San Joaquin County Branch Prayer Breakfast!

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Religious Affairs Committee, led with grace and vision by Rev. Edmund Green, for organizing a gathering that reminded us of our call to faith, justice, and unity.

A heartfelt thank you to our Keynote Speaker, Rev. Dr. Nelson B. Rivers III, Vice President of Religious Affairs & External Relations for the National Action Network and a lifelong NAACP leader. His message, rooted in Colossians 2:6-7, stirred our souls and reminded us what it means to be Rooted in Faith, Rising in Justice. We are also grateful for the impactful discussion with clergy after the breakfast, which added depth and purpose to our shared commitment.

Thank you to the pastors who prayed powerfully over our city, county, and nation. Your words covered our community in strength, hope, and love.

We were proud to recognize three outstanding leaders whose lives exemplify service and justice through faith:

Reverend Randolph Johnson, recipient of the Sheppard Award, whose life and ministry exemplify healing and hope through service.

Pastor Paul Brown, recipient of the Community Service Award, whose tireless outreach has transformed lives and uplifted those most in need.

Dr. Cynthia Chess, recipient of the Faith-Based Social Justice Award, whose prophetic voice and visionary leadership continue to break barriers and open doors.

A special thank you to our Executive Committee members for their continued leadership and dedication, and to our amazing Youth who graciously escorted our attendees and exemplified Black excellence in motion.

2024 Freedom Fund Gala

Inspiring Night of Unity and Progress: NAACP Stockton Branch Hosts 2024 Freedom Fund Gala

Stockton, CA — The NAACP Stockton Branch hosted its annual Freedom Fund Gala this past weekend, bringing together community members, leaders, and advocates for an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition, and solidarity. Held at the elegant Mercedes-Benz of Stockton showroom on Trinity Parkway, the event was themed “Thriving Together: Our Power Cannot Be Shut Down.”

The gala served as both a fundraising effort and a tribute to the resilience, strength, and unity of the Black community, with a strong emphasis on the continued fight for justice, equity, and empowerment.

Community Support Shines Bright

Organizers extended a heartfelt thank you to the community and NAACP members for their unwavering support, which made the event a powerful success. The energy in the room reflected a shared commitment to progress and a belief in collective action.

Among the evening’s many highlights was a special recognition of the NAACP Youth and Freedom Fighters, whose tireless efforts are paving the way for future generations. A standout moment came with the presentation of the President’s Award to the exceptional Ms. Deborah Sullivan, honoring her leadership and dedication to the mission of the NAACP.

Honoring Leadership and Partnership

The NAACP Stockton Branch also expressed deep gratitude to the Mercedes-Benz of Stockton family, especially Mr. Ken Cook, who served as Co-Chair of the Gala. His partnership and commitment to the cause played a significant role in the event's success.

Celebrating 2024 Accomplishments

The evening included reflections on the 2024 accomplishments of the Stockton Branch, showcasing initiatives and advocacy that have made a tangible impact in education, civil rights, voter engagement, and community development.

“This gala was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of our shared power and the importance of lifting each other up, especially in challenging times,” said a branch spokesperson. “We are thriving together, and our collective power cannot—and will not—be shut down.”

As the night came to a close, attendees left inspired, unified, and committed to continuing the important work of advancing justice and equity in Stockton and beyond.

2024 Branch Accomplishments Presentation.mp4

2024 Digital Agenda

The NAACP was formed partly in response to the continuing horrific practice of lynching and the 1908 race riot in Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln. Appalled at the violence that was committed against blacks, a group of white liberals that included Mary White Ovington and Oswald Garrison Villard (both descendants of abolitionists), William English Walling, and Dr. Henry Moscowitz issued a call for a meeting to discuss racial justice.

Some 60 people, seven of whom were African-American (including W.E.B. DuBois, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and Mary Church Terrell), signed the call, which was released on the centennial of Lincoln's birth. Since then, the NAACP has grown into being the nation's oldest, largest, and most widely recognized grassroots based civil rights organization.

The NAACP has changed America’s history. Since its founding in 1909, NAACP has played a critical part in the nation’s civil rights movement.

NAACP STOCKTON BRANCH

401 N. SAN JOAQUIN STREET

STOCKTON, CA 95202

P: (209) 466-7000