An organization striving to promote diverse issues, MSU’s chapter of The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, is seeking students who want to make an impact on campus and within the community.
President of MSU’s NAACP chapter, DaQuan Phillips, a senior marketing major, said the NAACP provides him an outlet to be an advocate for others. Joining an organization which values people who are outspoken and passionate about political and social beliefs, has allowed Phillips to better understand and appreciate opinions differing from his.
“I value our members the most; we are like a family,” Phillips said.
In addition to advocating for growing problems, NAACP also participates in community service projects and conferences which provide networking and leadership skills. As volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and Art in the Park, members took part in building and enhancing Starkville’s housing community and playgrounds. Aware of the sacrifices veterans made, NAACP also volunteered for the G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Center for America’s Veterans, acknowledging their brave contributions to this country.
“Being able to meet and connect with different people makes me value this organization,” Phillips said.
Phillips understands it is important to remain informed about all issues, not just those affecting one specific group. He also feels as if many associate NAACP as only being an organization for people of color, which is not true. Phillips credits this organization for being a great opportunity to advocate for issues with a group of people who are like-minded.
Phillips said he commended the founders of MSU’s NAACP chapter for stressing the importance of having a diverse group of people with varying backgrounds and races. Phillips believes a diversified group will strengthen the organization’s reach and impact on various groups of people.
Amber Dodd, a junior communication major with an emphasis in journalism and serves as secretary, was attracted to NAACP as a result of the organization’s national rank.
“As a freshman, I was looking for an organization with substance, and MSU’s chapter NAACP holds itself accountable for making change,” Dodd said.
An organization which promotes service, Dodd has fond memories of marching with Mississippi Nissan’s plant as workers demonstrated their desire to unionize. MSU NAACP also hosted two voter registration drives this semester and plans to continue promoting political involvement in the spring, in addition to providing resources for non-registered voters.
“We are extremely active on campus and take the initiative to make change,” Dodd said.
Reaching beyond the university, NAACP has partnered with Tougaloo College and the University of Southern Mississippi to advance in service. Willing to grow in leadership, members recently attended Mississippi’s NAACP state conference in Columbus, where they strengthened and expanded their mission statement of promoting political, educational, social and economic equality for all.
NAACP member Jazmine Melton, a sophomore building construction science major, said she values the organization’s discussion and conscious effort to stay abreast on current events.
“I enjoy our open discussion about recent events the most,” Melton said.
Melton wants potential members to understand NAACP is a great organization for people who are interested in global news and campus issues. In this organization, Melton has learned to act on issues and opinions by taking action.
“NAACP tries to make an impact in any way that we can,” Melton said.
Mississippi State’s chapter of NAACP carries out membership intake at the beginning of each semester. To stay connected and aware of upcoming events, follow NAACP’s Instagram and Twitter at msstate_naacp.