The Detroit Branch NAACP recently announced its lineup for the 66th Annual Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner scheduled for Sunday, October 3 at 5 p.m. at the TCF Center.
The lineup includes Hassan Jaber, president & CEO, Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) being honored as the James Weldon Johnson Lifetime Achievement Awardee.
Jaber will be recognized for his 16 years of exemplary leadership and service as an inspiration to generations of individuals focused on improving quality of life.
In addition to Jaber, Zania Alaké, Singer, Songwriter and Spring 2021 Top 20 Finalist on “The Voice,” will be a special guest for the Freedom Fund Dinner. Alaké will perform “Lift Every Voice And Sing,” and the national anthem.
Detroit Branch NAACP President Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony spoke during a September 16 press conference announcing the Keynote Speaker and additional awardees.
“After nearly two years of COVID-19, we are pleased to begin a new journey along the march towards freedom and equity at one of the nation’s most iconic civil rights events called the Detroit NAACP Fight For Freedom Fund Dinner,” Anthony said, adding that because of COVID-19, the regular 10,000 guests at the event will be reduced. “However, we will still enjoy a 1st class event and one to remember for all who attend.”
Anthony added that the theme for this year, “Don’t Rest On Your Freedom,” comes during the attack on “our democracy by people from within our own nation.”
“We have witnessed the introduction of over 400 voter suppression bills and the adoption of laws in over 18 states to reduce and take back the vote of Blacks, browns, young people, women, and seniors,” Anthony said. “We must stand up and speak out. The NAACP is needed now more than ever before is not just a cliché to be uttered, it is a reality to be activated. In the words of Congressman John R. Lewis, ‘We all must engage in some good trouble.’ Our nation and our future depend on our activism in these very critical times.”
Secretary of HUD Marcia Fudge will serve as the keynote speaker.
“She is a fierce advocate for fair housing and expanded housing for Americans across the country,” Anthony said. “She has been a voice for civil and human rights. She believes in the promises of America to provide opportunity and inclusion for all its citizens. We look forward to this tremendous alignment of stars in this era sometimes shaded with more darkness than light and more fear than hope.”
He added that the “comeback dinner” will be one to remember.
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