Dayton NAACP reflects on 100+ years, what’s next in 2025

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — More than 100 years of work in the Miami Valley can be found in one singular building on Salem Avenue, containing change that spans generations.

The Dayton NAACP first started as Zion Baptist Church back on Feb. 9, 1915, but was officially charted by the National Board of Directors on May 10 of that same year.Local Black artist keeping Dayton’s art scene alive

As the NAACP Dayton Chapter comes up on its 110th anniversary this year, it is looking to the past to address future challenges.

Dr. Derrick L. Foward is the current president of the NAACP Dayton Branch. He said his approach to this leadership role comes down to making sure people can live fairly, treated no differently than others.

“We got to make certain that we are protecting our people’s citizens, civil, and human rights, on a daily basis,” said Foward.

Those words have led to change and action in the community for decades.

“We have investigated close to 3100 complaints of discrimination,” said Foward. “Those complaints of discrimination, is widened, is broad, and that is housing discrimination, employment discrimination, police brutality.”

An important factor the NAACP wants to emphasize is it’s not just African Americans it wants to help — its helping hand is extended to all who need guidance or just someone to fight for them.

Dr. Foward said this aspect is deeply rooted in its founding.

“A lot of our founders were diverse, whether they were white, black, Jewish,” said Foward. “And from our standpoint, we do what we can do to help all people.”

That diversity is something it will be focusing on in 2025 and beyond. The branch said the recent string of executive orders targeting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives will be its main concern.

“We’re going to be looking very closely at ensuring that our community does not roll back the clocks of time here in Montgomery County,” said Foward. “And we are going to make certain that we have watchdogs out there.”

Dr. Foward said the branch will be fighting to make sure people are given a fair chance — and that quality workers are in various places.

The Dayton NAACP is located at 915 Salem Avenue. To learn more visit its website.