Our Founders
In 1908, a deadly race riot rocked the city of Springfield,
eruptions of anti-black violence – particularly lynching – were
horrifically commonplace, but the Springfield riot was the final tipping point that led to the creation of the NAACP. Appalled at this rampant violence, a group of white liberals that included Mary White Ovington and Oswald Garrison Villard (both the descendants of famous 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. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and Mary Church Terrell), signed the call, which was released on the centennial of Lincoln’s birth.
Our Mission
by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights,
eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and
economic security of Black people and all persons of color.
Our Vision
We envision an inclusive community rooted in liberation where all persons can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination.
Theory Of Change
We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities. Our work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people.