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The NAACP Vancouver Branch invites you to a community conversation: The Pillars and Intersections of Racial Equity, an open and engaging discussion about advancing fairness, opportunity, and justice for all.

Event: The Pillars and Intersections of Racial Equity
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026,
Doors Open at 6:00 PM Start Time: 6:30 PM
Location: City of Vancouver, Aspen Conference Room, 415 W 6th Street, Vancouver, WA

Racial equity means that a person’s racial identity no longer predicts their life outcomes. It is about fair systems, just policies, and equitable access ineducation, health, housing, employment, and political power. This conversation will explore both the barriers that persist and the solutions that can create a more just and thriving community for everyone.

ThePillars and Intersections of Racial Equity

Our panel will discuss racialequity across four key areas:

Education Equity – addressing disparities in schools, opportunities, and learning outcomes
Health & Mental Health Equity – ensuring access to care and addressing community health gaps
Economic & Housing Justice – tackling income disparities, employment barriers, and housing access
Political Power & Civic Accountability – promoting fair representation, voting access, and inclusive governance

Panelist:
Dr. Alan Melnick, Public Health Director and Officer, Clark County
Dr. Jamila Singleton, Executive Director, Rooted School Vancouver
Mr. Dom Merriweather, Executive Director, Proud Ground
Ms. Nikki Chen, DEI Business Partner, City of Vancouver, WA
Attorney Sheley Secrest, NAACP Regional State Conference President
Ms. Serena Stoudamire Wesley, Assistant Director, Equity and Civil Rights, Oregon Department of Transportation
State Representative Travis Nelson, OR State Representative
Rev. Michael Jones Jr., Vice President, NAACP, Moderator