My first experience at the NAACP Annual National Convention has been amazing so far! As soon as I received news Detroit was the hosting city for the annual convention, I knew I had to go.

I am enjoying making connections and learning more about important issues. So far, the overall experience has been very enriching and I am thankful for the opportunity to attend the convention.

NAACP EXPERIENCE, LONI LOVE, & ANTHONY BURRELL

Opening day of the NAACP Convention, we visited the NAACP Experience — a marketplace featuring a variety of exhibits and vendors. We even got to see Emmy and NAACP Image Award-winning actress and comedian Loni Love on opening day.

NAACP Convention: Highlights, Photographs from the Detroit Convention
On Opening Day of the NAACP Convention, Travis and our youngest Zephaniah tagged along with me. (Photo credit: Jennifer Hamra for Good Life Detroit)

Ms. Love did a live interview with creative director and choreographer Anthony Burrell. Burrell shared insight into his career as a choreographer for celebrities such as Beyonce and Mariah Carey. He even taught the audience how to do the “Auntie Step.”

NAACP Convention: Highlights, Photographs from the Detroit Convention
Loni Love interviewing Anthony Burrell at the NAACP Convention. (Photo credit: Jennifer Hamra, Good Life Detroit)

I immediately sent my good friend Marquita a short clip of Burrell’s “Auntie Step” because it reminded me so much of her and something we’d do at a party.

SIDE NOTE: A few months ago, Marquita informed me to the younger generation, we are now considered “Aunties.” I try my best to keep up with the trends, but this new trend of being an “Auntie” was new to me. I get it now, though, so don’t laugh at me! Haha! 🙂 This is why when Burrell shared with us the “Auntie Step,” I immediately thought of my friend!

NAACP Convention Photos
My sweet Zephaniah loved hanging out with Mommy on the first day of the convention.
Book of Black Heroes
The NAACP Experience features exhibits and vendors and it is open to the public!
NAACP Experience
Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit
Photo of me with high school counselor London Johnson. I even signed up to volunteer for Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit!
African art and jewelry
African American Art Detroit
Wakanda Forever

ROY WILKINS LUNCHEON WSG CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST SHAUN KING AS MODERATOR

Day 3 of the NAACP Convention, I attended the Roy Wilkins Luncheon: Democracy in Color at the Detroit Marriott Hotel in Downtown Detroit. I was excited to hear Shaun King lead the discussion because I am a big admirer of his work. Mr. King is a civil rights activist, writer, and founder of The North Star.

Shaun King NAACP

King is also known as one of the top influential people on social media. I’ve been following him on his IG and his Twitter for about 2 years now and I’m always learning so much from his discussions.

The Roy Wilkins Luncheon was a special event for college students and young adults. Special guests for the panel included:

Jessica Pierce, Co-founder of Pierce by Pierce Strategies in Los Angeles, CA

Rep. Jewell Jones, House of Representatives 11th District Inkster, MI

Cristina Tzintzun, Executive Director of JOLT in Austin, TX

Roy Wilkins Luncheon

King moderated the discussion and the panelists discussed important topics such as the importance of being proactive in their community and voting. Later this week, I’ll share a more detailed blog post on the topics of discussion.

MEETING SHAUN KING AND APRIL RYAN

As I was leaving the Roy Wilkins Luncheon, I spotted April Ryan interviewing Shaun King. Ms. Ryan is the American Urban Radio White House Correspondent, CNN Correspondent, and a Political Analyst. She will also serve as moderator for tomorrow’s Presidential Candidate Forum.

During the interview, King discussed how more young people are getting involved with social causes and voting. He also discussed the Eric Garner case and the Justice Department’s decision to not pursue federal civil rights charges against Officer Daniel Pantaleo.

NAACP Convention: Highlights, Photographs from the Detroit Convention

It was an honor to meet April Ryan and Shaun King. It was a brief meet and greet since they both had busy schedules for the day, but it’s definitely a moment I won’t forget!

NAACP Convention: Highlights, Photographs from the Detroit Convention
NAACP Convention: Highlights, Photographs from the Detroit Convention

Tomorrow is the last day of the NAACP Convention and I’m looking forward to attending the Presidential Candidate Forum. More to come so stay tuned!

Have you had a chance to visit the 110th NAACP Annual Convention?


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All photographs are courtesy of Jennifer Hamra for Good Life Detroit.

Written by

Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].