About Us

From our Branch President Barry Stokes

“Join me on this journey with renewed energy, commitment, and trust to continue the mission of this long standing organization.  As we reflect on our mission and the progress we’ve made, it is important to recognize the ongoing challenges that face our community. Each day, we are reminded of the critical role advocacy and unity play in advancing justice and equality. Your continued support and involvement are the driving forces behind our ability to create positive change and uphold the values we cherish.

We here at NAACP San Luis Obispo County are committed to civil rights, economic justice, and community empowerment.  We advocate for systemic change and condemn actions that threaten racial equity (like the Texas Gerrymandering). We want to see greater participation in elections, make sure that ongoing systemic barriers are highlighted, and rally supporters to join the fight for a more just society.

By actively partnering with local organizations, schools, and advocacy groups, we are creating opportunities for meaningful engagement and dialogue. These collaborations help foster a sense of unity and shared purpose across diverse communities, amplifying the impact of our collective efforts. Together, we can build bridges and inspire lasting change for generations to come.”

Leading the Fight in Your Community

Vision

We envision an inclusive community rooted in liberation where all persons can exercise their civil and human rights without discrimination.

Mission

Our mission is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, education, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color.

Community Partners

We’ve compiled resources to support the specific needs of the SLO County community. Whether you need to understand tenant rights, have experienced discrimination or have a civil rights concern, we are here to support you to the extent possible. Learn more about available resources and services.

Our Team


Branch Leadership

Officers:

Barry Stokes: President

Mark Buchman: 1st Vice President, Community Coordinator

Susan Rodriguiz: Treasurer, Finance Committee Chair

Kathy J Simpson: Secretary

Irv Hepner, 1st Secretary

Executive Committee

  • Sylvia Henson, Education Committee Chair                 
  • Irv Hepner, Legal Redress Committee Chair                     
  • Tobin Johnson, Communications,Press and Publicity Committee Chair
  • Tobin Johnson, LGBTQA+ Committee Chair
    John King, Freedom Fund Committee Chair
    Francisca Freeman, Health Committee Chair
  • Brenda Mack, Housing Committee Chair
    Preston Allen, Membership Committee Chair
    Destiny Farley, Young Adult Committee Chris

Members at Large

  • KC Victor  
  • Ken Frye: Sargent-at-Arms
  • Linda Mielke
  •  
NAACP Panel Discussion

Branch Committees

NAACP History

Founded Feb. 12. 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest, largest, and most widely recognized grassroots-based civil rights organization.

NAACP Panel Discussion

Join Us


We are advocates united in the fight to end racial inequality.

SLO County NAACP at a Glance

300,000

National Volunteers

$27,620

2024 Donations

7

Years as a Local Branch

163

Local Branch Members