The NAACP, a cornerstone of civil rights advocacy, made headlines on June 16, 2025, with a historic decision to exclude President Donald Trump from its 116th national convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. This marks the first time in the organization’s 116-year history that a sitting U.S. president will not receive an invitation to address the convention. The move underscores deep tensions between the NAACP and the current administration, reflecting the organization’s commitment to its mission of advancing civil rights. As thousands prepare to gather from July 12 to 16 at the Charlotte Convention Center, this bold choice has sparked widespread discussion about the NAACP’s role in shaping America’s social and political landscape.
Why the NAACP Made This Decision
The NAACP’s decision to not invite President Trump stems from its leadership’s belief that his actions clash with their core mission. Derrick Johnson, the NAACP’s President and CEO, emphasized that the organization prioritizes advancing civil rights, a goal they see as incompatible with the current administration’s policies. The convention, expected to draw thousands of change-makers, scholars, and activists, aims to foster unity and progress. By breaking with tradition, the NAACP signals a firm stance against what it perceives as efforts to undermine constitutional rights and the rule of law. This unprecedented move has drawn attention to the organization’s long history of engaging presidents from both parties, including Republicans like George W. Bush and Ronald Reagan, despite policy disagreements.
A Historic Shift for the NAACP
For 116 years, the NAACP has invited every sitting president to its national convention, regardless of political affiliation. From Harry Truman’s landmark appearance in 1947 to Joe Biden’s speech at the 2024 convention in Las Vegas, the organization has maintained an open platform. This year’s exclusion of Trump highlights a significant departure. The NAACP has faced criticism and legal battles with the current administration, including lawsuits challenging policies like the Department of Education’s withholding of funds from schools that maintain diversity programs. These tensions have fueled the organization’s decision, framing the convention as a space to reaffirm its commitment to justice and equality.
What to Expect at the 2025 Convention
The NAACP’s 116th national convention promises to be a vibrant gathering of thought-leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Held at the Charlotte Convention Center, the event will feature workshops, networking opportunities, and discussions on pressing civil rights issues. The NAACP emphasizes that the convention remains open to all political parties and attendees, fostering inclusivity despite the high-profile exclusion. Derrick Johnson has highlighted the event as a chance to “reboot hope” for communities frustrated by current events. With Charlotte hosting for the first time since 1996, the convention is poised to energize attendees and amplify the NAACP’s mission.
The Broader Impact of the NAACP’s Stance
This decision reverberates beyond Charlotte, signaling the NAACP’s readiness to confront policies it views as regressive. The organization’s choice reflects a broader cultural moment, with protests like the “No Kings” rallies in Charlotte and across the U.S. highlighting public discontent with the administration. The NAACP’s move could galvanize its base, encouraging grassroots activism and voter engagement ahead of future elections. By taking this stand, the NAACP reinforces its role as a fearless advocate for civil rights, even at the cost of breaking a long-standing tradition.
Community Reactions and Next Steps
Public response to the NAACP’s decision has been mixed. Supporters praise the organization for standing firm on its principles, while critics argue it risks alienating potential allies. Social media platforms buzz with debates, some calling the move a necessary rebuke, others questioning its impact on bipartisan dialogue. As the convention approaches, the NAACP plans to focus on empowering attendees through education and advocacy. The organization encourages community members to participate in the convention, engage in local chapters, or support its ongoing legal efforts to protect civil rights.
In a time of division, the NAACP’s bold choice underscores its unwavering commitment to justice. The Charlotte convention will serve as a rallying point for those dedicated to equality, offering a platform to strategize and inspire. As the organization navigates this historic moment, its actions will likely shape the national conversation on civil rights for years to come.
Join the NAACP in Charlotte from July 12-16, 2025, to be part of this transformative event. Register now to network, learn, and contribute to the fight for justice!