NAACP convention begins with remembrance of those passed

State NAACP members began their 64th annual convention today in a solemn manner.

They held a memorial service to honor those who once stood beside them in their fight for civil rights but passed away during the last year.

More than 50 members gathered inside Union Missionary Baptist Church’s sanctuary to officially kick off the convention, being held in Wilmington today through Saturday.

“We know we’re just the first wave,” said William Barber, state NAACP president.

Barber expects more than 1,000 NAACP members from around the state to attend this year’s convention, which is themed “The People, The Power, The NAACP, Fighting for Our Children, Not Just For Ourselves.”

Today’s memorial service honored more than 60 people, including former New Hanover County NAACP President Dolores Moore. Moore died in April from colon cancer. She served four years as the local NAACP president.

The Rev. Mazie Ferguson, religious affairs chairwoman for the N.C. NAACP, delivered the message.

Following the service, a luncheon focused on religion and health awareness began at noon.

Workshops focused on the faith community were to begin at 2 p.m. A mass community worship will be held at the church at 7:30 p.m.

Read Friday’s Star-News for more convention coverage.