April 27th 2025.
The Columbus branch of the NAACP was recently instructed by the national organization to temporarily halt all operations as they await further instructions. This decision was made after allegations of misconduct were brought against the longtime president, Nana Watson, who has denied any wrongdoing. As a result, the Columbus branch was placed under the purview of the national organization in November.
According to reports, the letter from the national office stated that there has been a widespread refusal to cooperate with their investigation, causing harm and hindering the branch's important work. This refusal to operate has led to a delay in the election process, where civil rights attorney Sean Walton was the only candidate on the ballot for president. However, this was halted due to a temporary restraining order filed by Watson against the national NAACP.
In response to these events, Walton has expressed his belief that the Columbus NAACP can use this time to regroup and come back stronger than ever. He stated, "When our time comes, we will be prepared to unite with purpose and transform with power. We are using this time to strategize, strengthen our foundation, and build a stronger NAACP Columbus than ever before. Our commitment to fighting for and protecting Black and Brown communities remains unwavering, and we are eager to get back to work."
Despite the setback, Walton remains determined and frustrated with the judge's decision to grant the restraining order. He explained, "Power cannot be paused, and purpose cannot be postponed. While this delay is disappointing, it does not stop the momentum we have built or the movement we are building. This is not about titles or individual power, but about building collective power to fight for our communities."
According to sources, Watson's lawyer, Ambrose Moses III, has also raised concerns about the national NAACP's lack of due process in handling the allegations against his client. He stated that no evidence or witnesses were presented, leaving them with nothing to respond to. This has led to concerns that Watson is not the only member who has been sidelined by the national organization without proper procedure.
In fact, independent journalist DaVante Goins wrote an op-ed for a local outlet, claiming that this is not an isolated incident but rather a pattern of silence and isolation from the national organization. He referenced a report from Roland Martin's show "Unfiltered" in 2024, which featured several Black women who were removed by the national NAACP in similar situations to Walton's. Goins also highlighted instances of retaliation, stonewalling, and a lack of transparency in the process.
The national NAACP responded to these allegations, stating that they were following their protocol when receiving reports of misconduct from members. They explained that members are given written notice of their suspension and have the right to a fair hearing and the opportunity to appeal decisions. However, many are questioning the fairness of this process and the lack of communication from the national organization.
In the midst of this controversy, the Columbus branch of the NAACP remains on hold, waiting for further instructions from the national organization. The community is hopeful that they can come back stronger and continue their important work in fighting for and protecting Black and Brown communities.
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