Public Statements - NAACP Arlington Branch in Arlington Virginia

Position Papers & Public Statements

Include Equity - Advisory Panel to Examine Arlington County’s Form of Government

Letter to Arlington County Board Chair - November 17, 2025

The proposed charter for the Advisory Panel to Examine Arlington County’s Form of Government is missing language for what should be a crucial driver of any assessment of Arlington’s form of government. The charter must be explicit about the role of equity in guiding the advisory panel’s work. Unlike in 1930, Arlington County has an Equity Resolution committing our government to addressing poorer outcomes and disparities experienced by “people of color, women, those living in poverty, immigrants and refugees, LGBTQ+ community members, and those living with disabilities, in addition to those residents living in certain neighborhoods of the County.” Many of these groups had few, if any, political rights when the county’s existing form of government was adopted and aspects of our form of government were adopted with the intent to keep people of color and other marginalized groups silent and powerless. Any consideration of changes to our form of government must be conducted with this injustice in mind and with an intent to remedy any lasting structural harm to our community.

Urge HUD to renew all current Continuum of Care Program grants

Letter to Virginia Delegation - November 13, 2025

We, the undersigned 63 organizations working across homeless services, housing finance and development, property management, healthcare, behavioral health, education, faith ministry, local government agencies, and more, write to express deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) proposed changes to the Continuum of Care (CoC) program; specifically, the plan to cap funding for existing permanent housing programs. This shift would undermine proven, cost-effective strategies that keep thousands of individuals and families in Virginia stably housed. These changes are set to take effect immediately, with grants expiring as early as January 2026.

Arlington's biggest civil rights & social justice event of the year

Press Release - September 12, 2025

NAACP Arlington Branch is hosting their 78th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet, Glow Unapologetically: Embracing Black Brilliance, on Saturday, October 4th at George Mason University (Arlington). This will be a vibrant celebration of Black excellence, brilliance, and unapologetic pride. Tickets are on sale at www.arlingtonnaacp.com through September 29th, and will not be sold at the door on the night of the banquet. The keynote speaker is Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan, member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia's 4th District. From Petersburg to Richmond to Washington, DC, Rep. McClellan has built a reputation as a tireless advocate, turning progressive values into lasting change. NAACP Arlington Branch Awards will be presented at this evening spent honoring those who have embraced, shared and utilized their power, brilliance and heritage.

Prioritize Ending Housing Discrimination

Letter to Arlington County Board Chair - September 9, 2025

We again call on the Arlington County Board and County Manager to prioritize ending housing discrimination in our community. New data from fair housing testing conducted in 2024 and 2025 shows that housing discrimination is a very real and persistent issue in Arlington County…

Proclamation Honoring Pastor DeLishia Davis

Proclamation - June 22, 2025

WHEREAS Pastor DeLishia Davis has demonstrated unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and empowerment through her leadership with the NAACP Arlington Branch and her service throughout the Arlington community...

Restoration of Historic Content to the Arlington National Cemetery’s Website

Letter to Arlington County Board - May 7, 2025

The NAACP Arlington Branch writes to seek the prompt and commanding leadership of our county leaders to help restore vital historical content to the Arlington National Cemetery’s website regarding the accomplishments of Black, Latinx, and women personnel.

FY 2026 Budget Recommendations

Letter to Arlington County Board - March 25, 2025

After decades of uneven progress towards racial and economic justice in the United States, we are again confronted with a federal government that has begun to abandon its obligations to protect and enforce civil rights while also weaponizing its powers against marginalized communities. With the institutions and leaders at the national level failing Black and Brown residents and the commitments our nation has made to secure equal rights for all, the NAACP Arlington Branch (the “NAACP”) urges the Arlington County Board to stand up as leaders for the rights and needs of our most marginalized residents.

Ranked Choice Voting Statement

Letter to Arlington County Board - February 22, 2025

How we elect County Board leaders is a critical issue for voter engagement. While ranked choice voting has been praised for many reasons, the fact remains that it deviates significantly from the traditional system that community members are used to. Making such an important change to our County’s voting system should not be done without a high degree of public confidence and support.

In times of tragedy, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of community

Public Statement - January 31, 2025

NAACP Arlington Branch extends our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn this devastating loss, and we stand in solidarity with the loved ones of those impacted. In times of tragedy, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of community. We lift up all those grieving in our thoughts and prayers, asking for strength, comfort, and healing in the days ahead. We also express our gratitude to the first responders, medical personnel, and all who have worked tirelessly in the wake of this disaster. As we come together in support of those affected, let us continue to offer compassion, unity, and unwavering hope. May we find solace in one another and be a source of strength for those who need it most. Rev. DeLishia A. Davis - President, NAACP Arlington Branch