A Triple Crown of Historic Milestones Celebrated at NAACP Central Brevard Freedom Fund Program -

By Sonya Mallard

History, heritage, and hope converged on Friday, February 6, 2026, as the NAACP Central Brevard Branch hosted its Freedom Fund Black History Program and Awards Celebration at the Cocoa Civic Center. The evening marked a rare and powerful triple crown of historic milestones: the 100th Anniversary of Black History Month, the 117th Anniversary of the NAACP, and the 91st Anniversary of the NAACP Central Brevard Branch.

The celebration brought together community leaders, elders, youth, faith leaders, educators, activists, and families to honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit to shaping a more just future.

The evening was guided with grace and professionalism by Mistress of Ceremony Ms. Katrina Hudson, Director of Leadership for Brevard Public Schools. The program opened with an Invocation and Blessing of the Food by Dr. Shaun Ferguson, Pastor of Faith Temple Christian Center, setting a spiritual and reverent tone for the celebration.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Madison Watkins and Dakari Brown of the NAACP Youth Council, symbolizing the voice and leadership of the next generation. A stirring rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was beautifully performed by Cherish Blunt and Brief Blunt, also of the NAACP Youth Council, filling the Civic Center with pride and unity.

Dr. Karen Ivery, Freedom Fund Chair, presented the Occasion and Recognition of Sponsors, honoring individuals and organizations whose support sustains the branch’s mission and community initiatives. Cultural expression continued with the Freedom Dance “Stand Up,” performed by Ariel and Jaclyn Payne and Kira Parker, a moving artistic tribute to resilience, justice, and Black excellence.

A deeply moving historical moment followed with the delivery of “The Ballad of Harry T. Moore” by Mrs. Sonya Mallard, Cultural Center Coordinator of The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Center and Museum. The powerful Langston Hughes poem honored the legacy and sacrifice of civil rights pioneer Harry T. Moore, reminding the audience of Brevard County’s central place in the national Civil Rights Movement.

One hundred years ago, historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week to ensure the contributions of African Americans would not be erased from history. Today, Black History Month stands as a global affirmation that Black history is central to the American story.

From freedom fighters and faith leaders to scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, and everyday community builders, the last century has revealed a legacy of resilience, brilliance, and purpose.

117 Years of the NAACP: A Legacy of Advocacy

Founded in 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has been a cornerstone of the fight for civil rights, justice, and equality. Through landmark court victories, voter advocacy, youth empowerment, and grassroots organizing, the NAACP has consistently stood as a voice for the voiceless.

Its history reminds us that progress is never guaranteed—it is secured by courageous people willing to stand, speak, and sacrifice.

91 Years of the NAACP Central Brevard Branch: Local Roots, National Impact

For more than nine decades, the NAACP Central Brevard Branch has carried the national mission into the heart of Florida’s Space Coast. The branch has advocated for education equity, economic justice, civic engagement, and community empowerment—continuing the legacy of civil rights pioneers Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore.

The Freedom Fund Program not only celebrates Black history but also raises critical funds for scholarships, advocacy initiatives, and programs that uplift future generations.

A Legacy of Leadership: Honoring Past and Present Presidents

The strength of the Central Brevard Branch is rooted in visionary leadership that spans generations. Past presidents who carried the torch of justice include:

Harry T. Moore; William Oliver Wells, Sr.; Rudy V. Stone; Mack D. Ivery; Rick Davis; Clarence Rowe, IV; Albert Wilson; J. Leroy Darby; Wilkie H. Smith; Tyrone B. Jones; Victoria Jones; Angel Kellem; and Clarence Whipple, Jr.

Today, the branch is led by Dr. Avanese Taylor, President, with Ms. Veronica C. Jenkins serving as 1st Vice President, continuing the branch’s tradition of advocacy, unity, and transformative community leadership.

A special highlight of the evening was the Life Member Presentations, led by Dr. Avanese Taylor and Ms. Veronica C. Jenkins, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated lifelong commitment to the NAACP’s mission and the pursuit of justice and equity.

Freedom Fund Awards: Honoring Excellence and Service

As part of the historic celebration, the Central Brevard Branch recognized outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment uplift the community. The 2026 Freedom Fund Awards included:

Veterans Community Impact Award – Winner: Thomas Johnson, PhD
First Responders Community Bridge Builder Award – Chief Evander Collier
Health and Wellness Equity Award – Winner: Jeanette White
Faith-Based Community Leadership Award – Winner: Pastor Jarvis Walsh
Community Impact Through Enterprise Award – Winner: Victoria Jones
Richard “Dick” Blake Trailblazer in Education Award – Winner:

Rachad T. Wilson

Emma Jewel Charter Academy Step Team stomped so their ancestors could hear them. Their precision and uniform of song and rhythm had the guests rising to their feet.

As the night ended, In her closing remarks, Dr. Avanese Taylor delivered a stirring Call to Action, urging the community to remain vigilant, engaged, and active in the fight for civil rights, social justice, and equity. She challenged attendees to honor the sacrifices of past leaders by investing in youth, strengthening Black institutions, and advocating for systemic change by becoming active in your community.

Looking Forward: Making History Together

As these milestones are celebrated, the message is clear: history is not only something we remember—it is something we continue to make.

The torch has passed. The work continues. The future is being written by today’s leaders and tomorrow’s youth.

This triple crown of anniversaries stands as a testament that Black history is powerful, Black leadership is essential, and Black futures are unstoppable.