NAACP DeKalb Host The Golden Gala Freedom Fund
NAACP DeKalb Celebrates 70 years of Service to Dekalb County
By Ricky McElroy
It was a night of celebration for civil rights as the NAACP DeKalb County Branch hosted their annual Freedom Fund Gala and Fundraiser. This year, the Golden Gala event marked the branch’s 70th anniversary of fighting for justice and equality in DeKalb County, Georgia.
The Mistress of Ceremonies was Atlanta Fox 5 news anchor, Alex Wittler. The evening began with a President’s Parade, honoring all past living presidents of the NAACP DeKalb. Greetings were presented through video from DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock.
After dinner, Alex Wittler led a moment of silence for all deceased freedom fighters of the branch. Ms. Nettie Jackson and Judge Ronald B. Ramsey were spotlighted this year for their service and support to the branch. Both Jackson and Ramsey passed away this year.
Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, Senior Pastor of the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church of
Stonecrest, Georgia, was a keynote speaker and encouraged those in attendance to be of service to those in need during the ongoing government shutdown. He specifically mentioned that families might miss their food stamps starting November 1, 2025, due to the shutdown. Remarks were also delivered by sponsors, including Mr. Robert James (Trial Attorney), U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson, DeKalb County Commissioner, Mereda Davis-Johnson, and Ms. Kate Denny.
The highlight of the gala is the recognition of community members who give their time, talent, and treasures to make DeKalb County a better place for us all. The winners this year are:
Albert Fields – David C. Albert Membership Award – awarded for the significant contribution or contributions to the DeKalb Branch’s support, growth, and development
Thomas Dwain Smith – Patricia C. Jones Community Service Award – awarded for an individual, family, business or non-profit community or service organization, who has shown exceptional leadership in DeKalb County .
Pastor Micah Dial – Rev. Dr. Steven N. Dial, Sr. Faith-Based Award – awarded to a faith-based leader who has provided ethical, moral and religious values, guidance and services in DeKalb County that extends beyond the scope of a single congregation or community.
The 100 Black Men of DeKalb – Earl T. Shinhoster Youth Services Award – presented to an individual, family, business or non-profit community or service organization who has provided exceptional services, dedication, leadership, contributions and/or initiative toward promoting the welfare of the youth in DeKalb County.
Ruben White – Thurgood Marshal Justice/Legislative Award – presented to an individual, family, business or non-profit community or service organization who has promoted human welfare and social reform through the national, state and/or local justice or legislative system
John Evans – Medgar Evers Wiley Legacy Life-Time Award – presented to the person who has demonstrated a lifetime of courage and has laid the foundation for present and future leaders in the cause of civil and human rights in DeKalb County
Vaughn Irons – President’s Award – This Award is the exclusive selection of the Branch’s President to who has rendered invaluable support that allowed the Branch to function.
Music was provided by the Just Grooving Band. The Gala was held at the Courtyard by Marriott in downtown Decatur.
