Senator Shaneka Henson Delivers Keynote Address at 50th Annual Anne Arundel County NAACP Freedom Fund Gala

The Anne Arundel County NAACP's 50th Annual Freedom Fund Gala took place on Friday evening at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Annapolis. This sold-out event, held under the theme “The Urgency of Now,” celebrated five decades of the chapter’s unwavering commitment to justice, perseverance, and unity, bringing together distinguished civic leaders, political affiliations, faith organizations, and community advocates.

Annapolis native Senator Shaneka Henson delivered a compelling keynote address titled “We Are Down, But Not Defeated — Stay Ready for the Moment.” Senator Henson emphasized the historical use of various tools, from the printing press to social media and public policy, as instruments of societal progress. She underscored the event’s central message of resilience, stating, “We may be down, but we are never defeated — because the work we do in the dark prepares us for the light.”

In a Facebook post, Senator Henson specifically acknowledged NAACP President Steven Waddy and the chapter leadership, remarking that receiving the official NAACP lapel pin was “a true honor and a reminder of the responsibility we carry forward.” The event concluded with a resonant message from Senator Henson: “The work continues. And the moment is now.”

During the gala, Ward 3 Alderman Elect Keanuú Smith-Brown also received the official lapel by Mr. Steven Waddy. The gala also honored several community leaders for their exceptional contributions to the NAACP’s mission of equity and empowerment:

| President’s Award | Rev. Marguerite Morris |

| Chairperson’s Award | Daryl Jones, Esq. |

| Freedom Fund Award | Ahsun Powell, CEO |

| Humanitarian Award | Jennifer Roman |

| Business of the Year | Image Power Incorporated (Carroll Hynson) |

| Youth & College Division Awards | Sati Wilson and Victor Aigbedion |

"Last night, I had the privilege of attending the NAACP’s 50th Annual Freedom Fund Gala," Register of Wills Jasmine Jackson said in a social media post. "It was a wonderful evening filled with inspiring speeches, new connections, and the opportunity to finally put some faces to names."

The evening also recognized the next generation of leaders through its scholarship honorees. Kara Burnett of WMAR emceed the program, which featured an inspiring blend of music, reflection on the chapter's history, and expressions of gratitude. 

For additional information about the Anne Arundel County NAACP and upcoming initiatives, visit: Anne Arundel County NAACP.

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