The 26th Annual NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet was held at the Hope Street building on Friday, October 23, 2026. The theme of “WE the PEOPLE” brought guests from all over Hardeman County and even some from out of the area. WOJG Radio’s Tracy Shaw was the MC for the well-planned program lineup.
Bolivar-Hardeman County Branch NAACP president Dixie Spencer made a call to order for the program to begin. Mrs. Spencer recently received the Charles L. White, Jr. Leadership Award during the weekend of the 80th Annual State Convention Freedom Awards Dinner, which was held in Memphis in September. Mrs. Spencer has been a member of the Bolivar Branch for more than 20 years and has held the president position for three terms.
There was not an empty seat in the house. Emeritus Jerry Crisp of Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Whiteville gave the welcome and greeting, which was followed by a collective singing of the Negro National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing. Pastor Eddie Gentry, Johnson Chapel CME Church, prayed and read scripture.
Eunice Spencer shared reflections as a member of the Bolivar Branch highlighting its initiates and community involvement. From attending the annual Legislative Day on the Hill in Nashville, the 117th NAACP National Convention in Chicago, putting “boots on the ground” at peaceful protests against issues of concern, to donating supplies to area schools, and encouraging “get out the vote!”
Pastor Lou Fields and Company, New Prospect Community Church presented musical selections throughout the evening.
Dr. Jerry Woods, an NAACP member and educator, of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Pinson, Tennessee, was the keynote speaker. Dr. Woods encouraged the audience to “Stay on the Wall!” and remain committed to the cause of the NAACP.
“Stay on the wall. This came from the book of Nehemiah. To me, he was saying that we must remain committed and focused on our journey and never give up no matter what,” said Mrs. Spencer.
Bolivar-Hardeman County Youth Council President Thilan Kimbrel addressed the audience and shared about the value the youth bring to the organization. He also sent a call to action to the eligible voters.
“Please, please, please vote! I can’t vote, but you can . . . It’s not just important for now, but it’s important for the future, and generations to come,” said Kimbrel, who is just 15 years old.
Mrs. Spencer recognized NAACP Life Members, while also noting the importance of all members. Special awards were presented to State Representative Johnny Shaw (Leadership Award) and Dr. Jerry Woods (Service Award).
