Matthews Announces Candidacy for President of Pasadena NAACP Branch

Following a vote by the nomination committee, Ron Matthews announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Pasadena National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Matthews has been a member of the group for more than 23 years.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Matthews said he is dedicated to building on the branch’s rich legacy by addressing pressing civil rights issues and fostering community engagement.

“As a dedicated member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People since 2002 and current First Vice President of the Pasadena Branch, I am running for president with a clear vision to strengthen our programs and ensure that we remain a strong voice for justice,” said Matthews. “The role of president is not for personal or political gain but to serve our community with transparency, integrity, and accountability.”

Founded in 1919, the Pasadena National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Branch holds the 16th charter issued by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, making it one of the longest-serving branches of the organization. For over a century, the Pasadena National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has worked to fight injustice, promote equality, and protect civil rights in Pasadena and surrounding communities.

Matthews said that in his capacity as Executive Director of the Alta Pasa Community Improvement Center, he has significantly contributed to the community by assisting over 1,200 seniors with essential home repairs, creating alternative activities for youth, and establishing workforce development opportunities in construction careers.

Matthews said he pledges to revitalize key programs, including the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO), a vital platform for nurturing and showcasing the talents of youth. He also committed to restoring youth scholarships to pre-pandemic levels to ensure the next generation of leaders receives the support they need to thrive.

Other objectives include increasing membership, boosting fundraising efforts, and expanding the branch’s focus on national and local civil rights issues.

“I’ve learned from some of the branch’s past leaders like Joe Brown, Gary Moody, Delano Yarbrough, and Allen Edson and I am ready to continue their work with a focus on service, not self,” Matthews added. “Together, we can advance the Pasadena National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s legacy of service, unity, and advocacy.”

The election for Pasadena National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Branch President will take place on November 21, 2024, with a 4-hour voting window available to all eligible members.

Matthews encourages all members to participate in this important process and is asking for their vote and support.