Texas NAACP Announces 2026 State Convention in El Paso, Oct. 1–3
Austin, Texas — The Texas NAACP will hold its 89th Annual State Convention Oct. 1–3 at the Hotel Paso Del Norte in El Paso, bringing together members, partners and advocates from across Texas to advance health, education, voting rights, historic preservation and an inclusive economy for all Texans.
“This year’s convention is about more than a gathering — it is about strengthening the work we do every day across Texas,” said Texas NAACP President Gary Bledsoe. “Our theme, ‘Our Fight is Your Fight: United We Build the Beloved Community,” reflects the urgency of this moment. More than 60 years after passage of the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act, we are confronting fierce efforts to dismantle those hard-won protections. To move forward, we must build strong alliances across communities.”
Bledsoe said the convention will feature keynote remarks from the Hon. Leon W. Russell, chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors, who has led the board since 2017. Other speakers will be announced once they have confirmed.
“Our chairman has a bold message to share, and we are honored he has accepted our invitation to join us in El Paso, where our organization’s work in Texas has deep roots,” Bledsoe said.
The 2026 convention theme underscores the Texas NAACP’s emphasis on collective action as the nation marks its 250th anniversary. Programming will include sessions focused on policy, advocacy, economic development, and community engagement, along with special programming for active-duty military members and veterans and young leaders.
“We want to warmly welcome young people from across Texas to this year’s convention,” said Skylahr Mimms, president of the Texas NAACP Youth & College Division. “Our movement’s strength is defined by our unity. Young people are ready to work, ready to fight and ready to lead, and we need all hands on deck to meet this moment.”
Local El Paso leaders have cited the historic nature of this year’s state convention and are rolling out the red carpet.
“El Paso is hallowed ground for the civil rights movement,” said Carl Dwyer, president of the NAACP El Paso Branch. “It was here that Dr. Lawrence Aaron Nixon challenged the white primary system, helping secure voting rights for Black Texans across the state.” He added: “When we gather this October, we are walking in the footsteps of giants.”
The Texas NAACP is inviting organizations and supporters to participate in its convention. For more information on how individuals or organizations can participate, go to Texas-naacp.org. Registration and hotel booking are available on the website.
For more information about the convention or sponsorship opportunities, contact Lonzo Kerr at lkerrnaacp@gmail.com or (512) 985-9151.
