AFRICATOWN Native & others receive local NAACP Awards
Mobile County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood, retired educator Ms. Mattie Shepard & Africatown Native Dr. Major Joe Womack (USMCR ret.) were the recipients of this year’s NAACP Mobile Chapter Annual Awards during their 117th Founders Day Celebration. The Guest Speaker for the ceremony was newly elected District 2 Councilwoman Dr. Samantha Ingram. The Theme of the program was, “THE FIERCE URGENCY OF NOW”.
County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood received the Robert W. Gilliard Award. This award honors visionary leaders whose integrity, courage and strategic action have led to meaningful and lasting growth within their communities. It recognizes those who create pathways for equity, expand opportunities and strengthen civic institutions through dedicated public service. Ms. Mattie Shepard received The Leo & Hazel Fournier Award. This award proudly celebrates individuals whose compassionate service and involvement strengthen and uplift their communities. It is given to those who demonstrate unwavering dedication to collaboration, outreach and empowerment, creating lasting improvements in quality of life and fostering sustainable community growth. Dr. Major Joe Womack received the John L. LeFlore Award. This award celebrates individuals who build stronger communities through mentorship, advocacy and grassroots engagement. This award highlights those who invest in people, cultivate future leaders and promote unity and progress through consistent value driven leadership.
It was very encouraging and refreshing to see and hear a new and young dynamic political speaker as District 2 Councilwoman Dr. Samantha Ingram delivered a great speech that excited the audience. Her speech was centered around community involvement, staying the course and never giving up. In addition, the Mobile Chapter of The NAACP has to be congratulated for the number of young people they had involved in their ceremony. I am proud to be a member of the NAACP because it’s future and the future leadership of under served communities in Mobile County is looking up.
Dr. Major Joe Womack USMCR (ret.)
Executive Director of
Co-Founder of
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