March 2026 Re-Cap

Chap Mahogany
1 day ago
4 min read

Happy Women's History Month!

March was jam-packed with so many great things happening not only in our community but also within our branch. Check out where we have been and what we have been up to.

President Sightings

Memorial for Rev. Jesse Jackson - President Brown gave a powerful message during Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs' memorial celebration of the life of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson

President Brown was interviewed for the Center for Law & Justice Women's History Month celebration by communications and special projects manager Ms. Erika Diggs. Check out our Facebook page for the full interview.

Governor Hochul hosted a reception in recognition of Women's History Month. Were you seen at the Governor's mansion? President Brown was there, of course!

Branch President, Debora Brown and Chair, Civic Engagement, Beverly Ivey took part in

visits to NYS Senators and Assembly Members seeking support for bills S8856 & A9617

Oversight of County Jails.

These bills represent an important step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and public trust in county correctional facilities. Independent oversight helps ensure concerns are reviewed responsibly, supports safer working environments for correctional officers, protects incarcerated people from harm, and strengthens confidence in public institutions.

Civic Engagement

As discussed previously, members of the civic engagement committee attended lobby day on March 4th. Members meet with our local representatives to discuss the priorities of the branch and our NYS Conference priorities. We will refer you to a few different links that would give you a better idea of the priorities of NY.

Did you know who your representatives are:

New York U.S. Senators- Chuck Schumer

Minority Leader of the United States Senate & Kirsten Gillibrand

Attorney General of New York – Letitia James

New York State Comptroller – Thomas DiNapoli

U.S. Representative – Paul Tonko

New York State Senator Patricia Fahy

New York State Assemblymember – Gabriella Romero

Check your registration status:here

Education Committee

Scholarship Opportunities -

NAACP Scholarship Opportunity was Due April 30 (TODAY)

Check out our Scholarship Page for more information about scholarship opportunities and resources with deadlines in May and June!

Environmental Committee/Economic Development

Presentation: Debora Brown, Ashley Chapple, 1 st VP, Arlene Way, Chair of the Economic

Development and Rev. Shamik Jiles, NAACP Member, met with members of the Albany

Clergy and community to discuss current plans by the Governor’s Office to “Reimagine Albany" and “Downtown Albany”. There is concern that the community has been left out of Albany area discussions and planning meetings concerning how, where, and what funding will be distributed for these projects.

Youth Council

The Albany NAACP Youth Council partnered with Capital District Tobacco-Free Communities to share their concerns around tobacco and menthol marketing at the Black Family Wellness Expo sponsored by the Albany (NY) District Links Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, on March 21, 2026.

Stay Tuned for:

HBCU College Tours

NAACP Youth Council Cleanup at Giffen Memorial Elementary School (274 S. Pearl St. Albany, NY 12202) on April 24, 2026 from 4 PM to 5:30 PM.

Highlights

Dr. Hazel N. Dukes Legacy Awards

On March 28, 2026, former Albany Branch - Youth Council president Jace P., was a recipient of an award for the work he has done with his college chapter. Congratulations Jace, you continue to make us proud!

—

History of Dr. Hazel N. Dukes

courtesy of the NYSNAACPYC Instagram page

Born on March 17, 1932, in Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Dukes has overcome countless barriers and made significant contributions in various spheres. Dr. Dukes' illustrious career

began as a community organizer for the Nassau County Economic Opportunity Commission (EOC), where she tirelessly advocated for children living in poverty. She later became the first Black American to secure a position at the Nassau County Attorney's Office, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations.

Throughout the Reagan and Bush presidencies, Dr. Dukes remained a steadfast and outspoken advocate for education reform and the advancement of civil rights. Her

leadership and unwavering commitment led to her appointment as the national president of the @naacp from 1989 to 1992, where she continued to shape the course of our nation's progress. Her impact has been both far-reaching and transformative, with her greatest achievement being a gift to others: mentorship.

“…if I can help somebody as I pass along; then my living shall not be in vain.”

- Dr. Hazel N. Dukes

Special Recognitions

The Albany Common Council recognized the Albany NAACP for 90 years of service to the community and the centennial anniversary of Black History Month. The Council voted unanimously in support and approval of this recognition.

Senator Patricia Fahy - Women's History Month Celebration - honored multiple members of our branch for their work in our community and for their continued work.

Picture L to R: Ms. Arlene Way, Ms. Nell Stokes, Mrs. Linda Jackson-Chalmers, Sen. Patricia Fahy, & Beverly Ivey (far right)

Beverly Ivey – Chair, Civic Engagement, Silver Life Member

Arlene Way – Chair, Economic Development and Environmental Justice

Nell Stokes – NAACP Member, Membership Crusader,

and Branch’s Legacy Award Recipient

Linda Jackson-Chalmers – Silver Life Member

Get your ticket today!

The Freedom Fund Luncheon is on June 7, 2026.

Cost: $100

Purchase your tickets online ... click the button below to learn how to properly navigate the Zeffy fundraising website. More information online for those who want to send in a check.