The NAACP SC State Conference focuses on election protection, legislation and education

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – More than 200 NAACP leaders and members are recognizing a milestone of 84 years as an organization.

The group met for its annual state conference in North Charleston to discuss the future of the Palmetto State in the areas of legislation, education and election protection.

“The state conference was first organized in Charleson, South Carolina, and operated here for several years. They decided to move it more centrally. This is a very historic moment for us as we are where it all began,” said President Brenda Murphy.

Panels included conversations about hate crimes and open carry laws, book bans, public school funding and voter suppression.

“I’m talking about real issues that impact the daily lives of South Carolinians,” said Senator Ronnie Sabb. “You ask yourself the question: How can I serve? How can I allow or be a part of our state that does better things for more people?”

In April, Murphy publicly expressed concern about what she described as deliberate voter intimidation in black communities.

A month before Election Day, she says her perspective hasn’t changed, but the way she deals with it has.

“It’s very important to work at the grassroots level, to work with these communities and help them recognize that and recognize the importance of their voices,” Murphy says. “It helps ensure people understand the challenges and care about the needs in their communities.”

In a panel discussion, Sabb spoke to the room about an observation he has seen across the state: fluctuating voter numbers in rural communities. Because of the move, Sabb believes the number of minorities is not particularly large.

The group also discussed how the lack of voter turnout and issue awareness impacts the voice of marginalized groups.

“We Americans have the absolute right to vote, so it is problematic for anyone who tries to prevent that,” Sabb said.

The four-day event features several keynote speakers and panels addressing how the organization will move forward over the next year.

The conference ends on Sunday. Attendees will hear from Congressman James Clyburn and President Derrick Johnson at a banquet on Saturday at 7 p.m.

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