"Strong organizations build on the work of previous leaders while adapting to current challenges," noted Treadwell. "President Whitfield established our commitment to this project. Our current leadership team ensured that commitment translated into results. That's how effective organizations operate-- with continuity, strategy, and persistence."
A MESSAGE TO OTHER COMMUNITIES
The Pine Bluff NAACP offers this message to NAACP chapters and community organizations in other cities facing similar challenges:
Your heritage matters. Your culture matters. Your community's vision matters.
When projects that honor African American contributions face obstacles-- and they will face obstacles-- effective, strategic advocacy can make the difference between vision realized and vision abandoned.
Be engaged early. Build coalitions. Think strategically. Work quietly when quiet work is effective. Apply public pressure when public pressure is necessary. Don't give up when challenges emerge. Protect what your community has built.
And most importantly: Don't wait for apples to fall. Shake the tree. Climb the tree. And defend the tree against those who would cut it down.
"The Pine Bluff NAACP hopes our advocacy for the DRB Plaza serves as an example," said King. "Community organizations have power when they understand how to use it strategically. We used our power. We protected our community's vision. And now Pine Bluff has a cultural treasure that will serve generations."
LOOKING FORWARD
As the Delta Rhythm & Bayous Blues & Wellness Plaza begins its service to the community, the Pine Bluff NAACP looks forward to:
Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
