The month of October brings certain inevitabilities into the world. Halloween, leaves will change colors, breast cancer awareness, and the Western Wayne County NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner. Months of planning brought local, and professionals from across the country to meet. This is where the Western Wayne County NAACP acknowledge and celebrate the individuals who have been instrumental to moving the people forward.

Westland welcomed students, elected officials, clergy, veterans, educators, environmental specialists, and police to come to the SOHO Grand Banquet and Event Center to fellowship as one. Normally ticket sales are a goal for Western Wayne County NAACP President Gina Wilson Steward. But her team broke the ceiling and sold the venue out by the table.

Guests traveled from across the city, state and country to hear NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson speak at the 26th annual Freedom Fund dinner. The crowd had the opportunity before the ceremonies started to socialize, network, and catch up with familiar faces. The room fell silent as visitors enjoyed an exceptional meal, the space got even quieter as the honorees stepped up to receive their awards.

The Great Expectations Honoree went to Sean Tinsley. The young man graduated from Belleville High School in 2023. Tinsley is the first black man to earn the Valeditorian title in school history. Sean is now a sophomore at Michigan State University and has dreams of working in law. Judge Karen Braxton claimed Exceptional Leadership to the Community Honoree. The Honorable Judge Braxton received the honoree by her work with the youth, food disparities, and expungement fairs. Shawn Tinsley was named a Great Expectations Honoree. Tinsley was honored because of his quest for seeking inequalities in the medical field. His passion is driving him to earn a Doctorate Degree from the Wayne State School of Medicine. Akil Alvin received a Great Expectations Award for his work in advertising and media. Akil has built a multi-million dollar company, and has sat in rooms with Disney executives, and has made Forbes 30 Under 30.

Operation Refuge was awarded the Exceptional Service to the Community Award for the exceptional work they do in the City of Inkster. They fill the void for residents who need food, train youth during their summer program – Camp Inspire and provide programming to the community to help them live more productive lives.

Robert Wilson was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Honoree. Mr. Wilson is honored for his work in guiding and mentoring the youth of the community. Saif Alsenad was the night's Trailblazer Honoree. Alsenad is honored for his work and education in criminal justice. He is known for his success in bringing community members together and working towards a common goal.

Lamar Tidwell took the Elected Official Honoree back to his city. Mayor Tidwell is honored for the direction he has taken the city of Ecorse. He has been elected for five, two-year terms, clearly indicating him as the people's choice. Freedom and Justice Honoree belonged to Laura Dudgeon for the active role she played in the community. Some of her work includes relationships with the League of Women Dearborn, Western Wayne County NAACP, Dearborn AAUW and being the eyes of the people when serving as a Court Watcher. Western Wayne County NAACP President Gina Wilson Steward also honored members of the branch that had went over and above during the year. The four honorees were Youth Branch - Gabriella Overman; Adult Branch - Joi Hearn; Executive team – Secretary Ruby Richards and Most Ticket Sales – Pastor Velma Jean Overman.

NAACP President and CEO, and Detroit native Derrick Johnson delivered a powerful keynote speech. He delivered history, wisdom, and style as he celebrated a Detroit Lions Win with the crowd.

The event which had many moving parts, also had many hands to operate it. It couldn't have been done by one person. "Our 26th Annual Freedom Dinner exceeded our attendance expectations. It grew by 30% supported by our members, supporters, friends and families. We look forward to continue growing our scholarship program and recognizing community members and partners committed to the Freedom Fight." states Freedom Fund Chairperson Dakima Jackson.

The Western Wayne County NAACP would like to thank its sponsors, and honor all attendees present. Events like this wouldn't be possible without the freedom fighters who chose a purpose of service, and continuously strive to make the community a better place. Great work Gina Wilson Steward, the hard part is finally over. Take a break. Planning for next year's dinner is right around the corner.

Members of the River Rouge School District's ROTC with NAACP President/CEO Derrick Johnson at the Western Wayne County NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner. They served as greeters and escorts for the guest.

For more information on the Western Wayne County NAACP visit http://www.westernwaynecountynaacp.com