The Arlington NAACP has begun laying the groundwork for leadership elections for 2027-28.
“We welcome anyone and everyone who would like to serve,” incumbent president Rev. DeLishia Davis said at the organization’s monthly meeting on Monday night.
At the meeting, an election date of Monday, Nov. 23 was set, with a four-hour voting window planned.
A nominating committee will be finalized in the coming month. Elected leadership posts include president, first and second vice presidents, secretary, treasurer, assistant treasurer and members of the executive committee.
Davis did not indicate whether she planned to seek a new two-year term. She has continued in office after departing Calloway United Methodist Church in Arlington for a position as lead pastor at Springfield United Methodist Church.
In January 2025, Davis succeeded Michael Hemminger as president of the local NAACP branch, which dates back to 1940.
In remarks to open the Aug. 31 meeting, Davis said the Arlington NAACP continues to play a vital role in addressing “issues that really matter.”
“The time is now for us to stand up for the rights of others in the community,” she said.
Also on the upcoming agenda for the Arlington NAACP is the group’s 79th annual Freedom Fund Banquet, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 17 at Mason Square, George Mason University’s Arlington campus.
“We want to ensure that place is packed,” said Karen Nightengale, who is co-chair of the event along with Tia Alfred.
“We are excited about it. Things are in place. We want everyone to participate,” Nightengale said.
The theme for the evening is “We the People: A Community Rising.” The keynote speaker and award recipients will be announced in the coming weeks.
Also on the organization’s fall agenda is a candidate forum, to be held virtually on Oct. 14.
Candidates for County Board, School Board and county treasurer have been invited to participate. Davis urged NAACP members to “get in any of the questions you want answered” so they can be considered for use.
The forum will be open to the public.
