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Tag: Community Service

  • Pittsburgh NAACP Gets New President Focused on Revitalization

    The Pittsburgh chapter of the NAACP has a new leader at its helm, and she’s making it her personal mission to breathe new life into the organization. Jacqueline Hill, a 75-year-old Homewood native with a lifelong dedication to community service, was elected president in July and officially installed on August 2.

    A Commitment to Revitalization and Advocacy

    Hill, who returned to her hometown in 2012, felt a strong sense of ‘obligation’ to run for president and revive the NAACP chapter she admired growing up. Her activism began in her youth, inspired by the riots following Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, which taught her the critical importance of equality and fighting for one’s rights.

    Her daughter, Megan, recalls a childhood filled with political engagement, with Hill actively involved in community projects that served the ‘greater good.’ This deep-seated commitment to activism is something Hill has carried throughout her life, including her time in Philadelphia where she directed the African-American Chamber of Commerce and the Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Center, helping secure millions in funding for minority-owned businesses.

    Addressing Key Issues: Membership and Voting Rights

    Hill’s priorities for the Pittsburgh NAACP include growing membership and vigorously protecting voting rights, especially in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state. She has voiced concerns that requests for voter data by the U.S. Department of Justice could lead to the purging of Black voters.

    She also aims to broaden the NAACP’s support base beyond the Black community, emphasizing that the organization champions the cause of all low-income and disenfranchised individuals. “We all have something in common,” Hill stated. “Poverty is not pretty in Black or white.”

    Community Support and Renewed Enthusiasm

    The election of Hill has already generated enthusiasm. Marcella Lee-Wilson, a 35-year member, expressed excitement, stating, “I’m so excited that Jackie is at the helm.” Brenda Tate, elected second vice president, noted a surge in people reaching out to rejoin the chapter since Hill’s election, recognizing her significant, though often unnoticed, work in the city.

    With Hill’s leadership, the Pittsburgh NAACP is poised for a period of renewed focus and activity, aiming to address critical issues like employment disparities and ensure equitable access to the ballot box for all residents.

    What are your thoughts on Jacqueline Hill’s vision for the Pittsburgh NAACP? How important are local chapters in advocating for civil rights today? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Shawn Kemp Sentenced to Home Monitoring After Mall Shooting

    Former NBA star Shawn Kemp, a six-time All-Star known for his electrifying career with the Seattle SuperSonics, has received his sentence for a 2023 shooting incident outside the Tacoma Mall. Instead of jail time, the 55-year-old will serve 30 days of electronic home monitoring.

    Unusual Circumstances Lead to Home Monitoring

    Pierce County Superior Court Judge Michael Schwartz presided over the sentencing, describing the circumstances surrounding the confrontation as “unusual.” In addition to the home monitoring, Kemp must also complete 240 hours of community service and will remain under state supervision for one year. This sentence comes after Kemp pleaded guilty to assault in May as part of a plea deal.

    The incident occurred in March 2023 when Kemp used a location app to track his stolen cellphone to Tacoma. His truck, phone, and sports memorabilia had reportedly been stolen earlier in Seattle. Upon arriving at the mall, Kemp identified a Toyota 4Runner believed to be connected to the theft. Court documents indicate that a passenger in the SUV fired shots first, leading Kemp to return fire in self-defense. Fortunately, no one was injured in the exchange, and the SUV was later found abandoned with an empty holster inside.

    Mitigating Factors and Future Reflections

    Prosecutors had initially sought a nine-month jail sentence for Kemp. However, the judge took into account the fact that Kemp was a victim of theft and that shots were fired at him first. These factors played a role in the final sentencing decision.

    Kemp’s supporters, including former NFL star Marshawn Lynch and Kemp’s pastor, were present in court to offer their backing throughout the case. Reflecting on the experience, Kemp shared his thoughts on handling conflict moving forward: “The last three years have been tough,” he told reporters. “Think twice when you get mad. Think twice when you get a little upset.”

    What are your thoughts on Shawn Kemp’s sentence? Do you think it was fair given the circumstances? Share your opinions in the comments below!