“We are pleased that Governor Romney addressed our convention today,” stated NAACP Chairman Roslyn M. Brock. “This morning Governor Romney laid out his policy agenda for this nation. Unfortunately, much of his agenda is at odds with what the NAACP stands for – whether the issue is equal access to affordable health care, reforming our education system or the path forward on marriage equality.  We appreciate that he was courageous and took the opportunity to speak with us directly.”

“While we are glad that Governor Romney recognized the power of the black electorate, he laid out an agenda that was antithetical to many of our interests,” stated NAACP President Benjamin Todd Jealous.  “His criticism of the Affordable Care Act – legislation that will improve access to quality health care for millions – signals his fundamental misunderstanding of the needs of many African Americans.”

The theme of this year’s convention, running July 7-12, is “Your Power, Your Decision – VOTE”. The convention builds on the Association’s voter engagement and empowerment initiatives, with advocacy workshops on a myriad of vital issues, including civic engagement, health care, criminal justice, and climate justice. More information is available here: http://www.naacp.org/pages/convention.

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.