Local NAACP holds 58th annual Freedom Fund Gala

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Friday was a night of celebrating and honoring those working toward advancing civil rights and social justice in the West Michigan community.

The NAACP Greater Grand Rapids Branch held its 58th annual Freedom Fund Gala and Awards to recognize champions in civil rights activism and community work.

The event at the JW Marriott featured remarks from special guests U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids; U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; and Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. The keynote speaker was Democratic U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia.

“I know so many people that have memorable experiences at this, so I wanted to be a part of helping create the kind of history that the people who come to this kind of event. The people who do the work every day, sometimes you got to sit back and celebrate. And it’s important to me be a part of that,” Gilchrist told News 8 ahead of the event.

The event came at a pivotal time of the year. With Election Day just weeks away, the gala took on a different tone, intertwining the ballot box and the goals of the organization.

“We are in the home stretch right now, and Michigan is the center of the political universe,” Buttigieg told News 8. “Part of what I am doing is calling on everyone who cares about the future of this country to speak to a friend, speak to a neighbor, get involved, knock on doors and, most importantly of all, vote.”

To learn more about those honored at the gala, click here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.