The NAACP is celebrating its centennial and mapping its future in New York City this week.
During Saturday’s opening press conference, NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Jealous called for a fair confirmation process for Judge Sonia Sotomayor.
Jealous had some choice words for Sen. Jeff Sessions, the ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee: Don’t even think about it.
Don’t even think about trying to score political points with Sotomayor whose confirmation hearings begin today.
A who’s who of elected officials, civil rights leaders and activists will address the convention, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Sen. Chuck Schumer, Rep. Charles Rangel, New York Gov. David Paterson, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
President Barack Obama will deliver a keynote address on Thursday.
Roslyn Brock, Vice Chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors and Chairman of the 2009 Convention Planning Committee, said:
The NAACP was founded in New York and it is only fitting that we bring the nation’s first African American President to this city to celebrate our 100th year. We look forward to all residents of this city and state being able to share in this momentous occasion.
If you can’t join the thousands already camped out at the New York Hilton, you can watch a live webcast of the proceedings here.
You can also follow my updates on Twitter.
