Good turnout, inspiring resolution by Otero County NAACP President, Warren Robinson, great entertainment,  beautiful people, great conversations, and a nice cool breeze in the shade of the cottonwood trees next to the Alamogordo Public Library made for a delightful event.  The theme was a salute to Asians and Pacific Islanders across the world.

Opening event from the  state of  Hawaii was by Michael and Desiree Salé, stationed at HAFB.  Michael sang traditional and contemporary Hawaiian songs accompanied with his guitar and ukulele.  Traditional hula dance was performed by Desiree with grace and a beautiful smile.  Michael also talked about the history of Hawaii and how it became a statehood.

Karunna & Marie Warren with the New World Drummers and  Dancers completed the entertainment with traditional African drums and dance.

The event was broadcast live by Bob Flott on KUPR 91.7 FM

The Otero County Juneteenth Celebration was excellently planned and organized by Carolyn and Ron Peeler.  Many thanks for their work.

A helping hand after leaving jail: NAACP program helps former inmates re-adjust in society

by Ellis Smith/Times-Georgian

Four years ago the Carroll County NAACP conceived a program that would help parolees live a successful life outside of prison. With hundreds of success stories on record, the little-known program is now ready to unveil itself to the community.

On Saturday, the first annual “Another Chance” gala at the University of West Georgia Campus Center Ballroom will feature fine dining, a silent auction, and the stories of rehabilitated inmates. Proceeds will benefit the Carroll County NAACP Re-Entry Services program. The service is not for profit and works in conjunction with local businesses, Carroll County, the city of Carrollton and other local stakeholders. (more…)

Whitten Inn protest draws regional support

Originally published in Santa Fe NAACP

By Matthew van Buren

A protest outside the Whitten Inn Saturday (Nov. 14) drew supporters from as far away as Las Cruces and San Antonio.

About 60 demonstrators gathered along Paseo del Pueblo Sur on an overcast Saturday morning and marched to the inn, picking up several bystanders along the way. The hotel has been a subject of regular protests since August, when former employees began to picket the former Paragon Inn, which Larry Whitten took over July 31. Some said they believe Whitten terminated several employees because they were Hispanic, which Whitten has denied.

Protesters have focused on controversial policies of Whitten’s – he told employees not to speak Spanish in his presence and told several to change their names. Martín was to go by “Martin” while at work, and Marcos was to be called “Mark.” (more…)

Gov. Bill Richardson  signed legislation to officially ban bias-based profiling in New Mexico. Advocates and organizations who supported the legislation were in attendance at a public signing at the governor’s office in Santa Fe.  Activist members of the Otero County, New Mexico NAACP lobbied for passage in Santa Fe  and testified in committee hearings.

HB 428, the Prohibition of Profiling Practices Act, sponsored by Rep. Nathan Cote, D-Las Cruces, passed the Senate floor by 32-10 in the final hour of the legislative session. The bill previously passed the House floor 62-0 after an hour of impassioned debate from members. (more…)

June 20th marks the next Juneteenth celebration at the Alamogordo Public Library. from 11:00 to 2:00 and everyone is invited to attend.

Our theme this year is in a salute to  Native Americans.  We have commitments from native singers, dancers, and speakers. We have also invited, as we do each year, our neighbors from  the Mescalero Apache Reservation, who in turn have always invited the Alamogordo community to attend their Coming of Age Ceremony,  held every year on the first week of July.

This post will be updated as new information  is made available.

Come celebrate MLK day, Monday, January 19, 12:00 at the Boys & Girls Club of Otero County, 201 Dale Scott Ave. Alamogordo, NM 88310 for a march to City Hall and back. Bring canned goods to donate to the Salvation Army. Sponsored by the MLK Committee.