Freedom Fund Dinner 2026 Pushes Us to Get Out the Vote

The 114th Anniversary NAACP Cleveland Branch Freedom Fund Dinner was a resounding success. Attended by over 900 longtime civil rights activists, clergy, business and civic leaders, neighbors and friends, it was a night we will never forget. The energy and support were incredible!

After a busy July with the National NAACP Convention in Chicago, where we connected with advocates from across the country, as well as a celebratory Freedom Fund dinner where we honored those who have served and continue to serve the community, all eyes turn towards the General Election in November. We are actively working with other community organizations focused on civic engagement and civic involvement. The mission, vision, and commitment to the work of the NAACP to advance social justice and equality continue, just as they have since the NAACP's founding in 1909 and the Cleveland Branch's founding in 1912. We are "Made for the Moment!"  

The nineteen members of our Host Committee and the ten members of our Freedom Fund Committee were led by Chair Danielle Sydnor; Honorary Chair, Renee Richard, Esq.; and Honorary Co-Chair, Rhonda Brown. All worked tirelessly to welcome our legends of today.

Kevin Clayton graciously accepted as our Corporate Honoree. Mrs. Edwina Moss eloquently described her civil rights work, meeting her husband, and their life in Cleveland. Rev Dr. Otis Moss Jr. briefly expressed his appreciation.

Then Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III brought the house down with his keynote speech, "This Little Light of Mine." He described how Fannie Lou Hamer was brutally beaten after seeking the right to vote and leaning into integration - and changed the tide by singing that song, inspiring subsequent activists and people around the world.

Rev. Moss shared the film he wrote to honor his grandfather, "Otis' Dream," that describes his grandfather Rev. Dr. Otis Moss Sr.'s experience being turned away from voting. Otis Moss Sr. subsequently admonished his children, "Listen here, promise me, if you ever get the chance ... Vote."

And so we must.

If you missed the Freedom Fund Dinner this year, resolve you'll be the first person to buy your tickets next year, arrange for your company to sponsor, and honor your guests with NAACP memberships.