Western York County NAACP 22nd Annual Freedom Fund Banquet
About this Event
The Western York County NAACP’s 22nd Annual Freedom Fund Banquet is a night filled with purpose, fellowship, and the deep, steady pride that comes from seeing our community stand together. Guided by this year’s theme, “We The People,” we gather to honor those who lift our families, strengthen our neighborhoods, and keep the work of justice moving forward.
This year, we are honored to welcome Dr. Jermaine Johnson as our keynote speaker — a dedicated public servant who currently serves in the South Carolina House of Representatives and is running for Governor of South Carolina. His journey, his voice, and his commitment to the people of this state bring a powerful and inspiring presence to our celebration.
Union Baptist Church opens its doors to us once again, offering a space rooted in tradition, warmth, and togetherness. Expect heartfelt moments, shared stories, and a reminder of what we can accomplish when we show up for one another — as one community, one purpose, and one people.
About Our Keynote Speaker
Dr. Jermaine Johnson’s story is one of rising from hardship and returning home to serve. He grew up in communities marked by poverty, gun violence, and homelessness, yet he kept pushing forward, turning struggle into purpose . Basketball opened doors, earning him a scholarship to the College of Charleston and leading him to play professionally around the world Current pageCurrent page. His talent earned him a full scholarship to the College of Charleston, where he became a team captain and later played p....
After his playing career, he returned home with a heart for service — earning a doctorate in Organizational Leadership and founding the New Economic Beginnings Foundation to help everyday people gain skills and support to succeed .
In 2020, he made history by defeating a 22‑year incumbent to join the South Carolina House of Representatives, where he stands up for working families across Richland and Kershaw Counties .
But at the center of everything he does is family. Dr. Johnson lives in Hopkins, South Carolina, with his wife, Dr. Evan Patrice Johnson, and their four children — Jermaine Jr., Khloe, Kobe, and Kari . His decisions are guided by the belief that no child should be written off because of where they come from, and that lived experience can shape bold, compassionate leadership Current pageCurrent page. Every decision he makes is guided by the belief that no child should be written off because of where they come from—and ....
Today, Dr. Johnson is running for Governor of South Carolina, carrying a message rooted in service, resilience, and a deep love for community.
Agenda
🕑: 05:00 PM - 05:45 PM
Freedom Fund Reception
Info: Guests will be welcomed with a warm, soulful reception featuring smooth jazz, light refreshments, and space to mix, mingle, and reconnect. It’s a chance to greet familiar faces, meet new community members, and settle into the spirit of the evening before the program begins. The atmosphere will be relaxed, inviting, and full of fellowship — the perfect start to a night rooted in unity and purpose.
Freedom Fund Banquet
Info: As the evening moves into the banquet, guests will gather for a warm, elegant program centered on celebration, recognition, and purpose. A beautifully prepared meal will be shared as we honor community leaders, dedicated servants, and those whose work strengthens Western York County year after year.
The highlight of the night will be our keynote speaker, Dr. Jermaine Johnson — a devoted public servant, South Carolina House member, husband, father of four, and candidate for Governor. His story of resilience, service, and family‑rooted leadership will set the tone for an inspiring program.
Throughout the banquet, we will present awards recognizing excellence, commitment, and the quiet but powerful work happening across our community. Expect heartfelt moments, uplifting words, and a spirit of unity that carries through every part of the evening.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 2669.52
