NAACP PROVIDENCE BRANCH ANNOUNCES 110TH FREEDOM FUND GALA AT THE RHODE ISLAND CONVENTION CENTER THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

December 6, 2023

Contact: Gerard C. Catala

(401) 218-4842 president@naacpprov.org 

PROVIDENCE – The NAACP Providence Branch will host the 110th Freedom Fund Gala on Thursday, December 21, 2023, 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. at the Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence, RI. This year’s theme is PASSING THE TORCH, “Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today”. The evening program includes remarks from keynote speaker Rhode Island District 1 Congressman Gabe Amo, NAACP New England Area Conference (NEAC) president Tanisha Sullivan, Esq., and NAACP Providence president Gerard C. Catala. 

“As a first year president who appreciates traditions, my administration has worked tirelessly to ensure the NAACP Providence Branch continues the legacy of having our annual Freedom Fund event. I am humbled and excited to announce that the NAACP Providence Branch will celebrate the Association’s 2023 achievements and honor community leaders whose actions personify the ideals of our mission at the 110th Freedom Fund Gala, said Gerard C. Catala, president of the NAACP Providence Branch. “This year’s theme is Passing The Torch, Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. It is my unfeigned belief that it’s not only prudent but imperative that local leaders take a special interest in our future leaders, equip them with the essential tools needed for success and remain selflessly ready to pass the torch when God calls us to task. For, if we fail to do so, responsibility lies within oneself if passing winds quell the flame of progress and succession.” 

The NAACP Providence Branch Freedom Fund Gala is a premier civil rights fundraiser and, most importantly, a space where dynamic change makers fellowship. Previous keynote speakers include Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, Actress and Film Producer Viola Davis, and Congressman John Lewis.

“I am honored to be the keynote speaker for the NAACP Providence Branch’s 110th Freedom Fund Dinner,” said Congressman Gabe Amo. “In having the honor of serving Rhode Island’s First Congressional District, I stand on the shoulders of so many leaders who came before, many of whom have been leaders in this distinguished organization. I look forward to sharing my story and discussing how we can reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthening our community, upholding civil rights, and improving economic opportunities.”

The NAACP Providence Branch acknowledges the tireless efforts of both celebrated leaders and unsung heroes devoted to uplifting communities of color and ensuring everyone could thrive together. In commemoration, the NAACP Providence Branch will host a public swearing-in ceremony during the freedom fund event of its executive leaders alongside honoring distinguished honorees who embody progress and equality. 

This year’s Gala will be hosted by our 2023 Ida B. Wells Award recipient. Rhode Island’s own award-winning tv personality and celebrity correspondent, international television host, Dr. Remi Jones of remitvmedia.com. 

NAACP Providence Branch 110th Freedom Fund Honorees include: 

Vanguard Award Juneteenth RI

Divine Nine Award for Partnership (DAP)  TBA at Gala 

Mary Church Terrell Award 

Rosa De Castillo

Col. Charles Young Award  

Lt. Cornelio Fernandez

Amos C. Brown Award  

Akeem Lloyd

1. E. B. Du Bois Award

Kyle Dennis

Rosa Parks Award  

Lorraine Lalli, Esquire

Medgar Evers Award  

Joe DaMoura

Dr. Ernest Everett Just Award 

Dr. Phillip Chan

Lifetime Achievement Award 

Cliff Montiero

Cliff Monteiro Leadership Award  

Andre Isom

Ida B. Wells Award 

Dr. Remi Jones

Roy Wilkins Award  

Dewayne Boo Hackney
Thurgood Marshall Award 

 Honorable Vanessa Crum (Judge)

Martin Luther King Jr. Award  

Honorable Edward Clifton (Judge, ret.)

Dr. Julius J. Robinson President Award 

Leon W. Russell (NAACP National Chairman) 

George S. Lima President Award 

Derrick Johnson (NAACP National President)

NAACP Providence Image Award  

Congressman Gabe Amo (RI First Congressional District)

Ticket sales will go live on naacpprov.org for $80 on December 6. All tickets from the postponed gala will be honored with a drink ticket and special gift included. For more information including tickets, donations, sponsorships, scholarships, memberships or general inquiries, please contact us at (401) 218-4842, president@naacpprov.org, or secretary@naacpprov.org.

About the NAACP Providence Branch

The NAACP Providence Branch advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across Rhode Island and the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

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