2024 End of the Year Letter

A Message from Our Newly Elected Branch President, Nieema Thasing

Dear Members, Supporters, and Friends of the NAACP Sioux Falls Branch 4102-B,

Greetings, everyone!

As 2024 comes to a close, I am filled with gratitude and pride reflecting on the incredible achievements of our Branch this year. Your collective support and dedication have propelled us forward in our mission to ensure equity, equality, and justice for all. Let’s take a moment to celebrate some of our shared accomplishments and look ahead to an impactful 2025.

2024 Highlights - 2025 Goals

Incident Report Summary
This year, our branch diligently responded to community concerns, addressing incidents such as the neo-Nazi march in Pierre, SD. Our Political Action and Legal Redress Committee responded to and actively investigated over 30 cases, and closed 28 reported incidents, underscoring our commitment to safeguarding civil rights and advocating for justice. Going forward, we hope to continue to respond in a timely manner to thoroughly investigate all reported incidents.

General Body Meetings
We held monthly General Body Meetings in 2024, welcoming an average of 15 attendees per meeting, including members and guests eager to join our cause. These gatherings have strengthened our collective voice and laid the groundwork for actionable change.

In 2025, we have a goal of a minimum of 21 members per meeting to reach quorum. Please let us know what days and times you prefer for General Body Meetings by completing this survey: Take the Survey

MLK Day

In January, we honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a community march and panel discussions, inspiring many to continue his work for justice and equality. Despite canceling the pancake breakfast due to weather, the event transitioned seamlessly online, expanding our reach.

In 2025, we hosted a successful pancake breakfast at the House of Deliverance Church, featuring inspiring speakers and fresh, delicious food. We look forward to continuing this tradition in 2026!

Black History Month (BHM) Events
From educational panels to cultural celebrations, our BHM events reached over 200 attendees, in person and virtually, fostering awareness and appreciation of Black history and Black contributions.

In February 2025, we are planning and promoting many exciting and engaging community events. See below and Check out our website for details and updates! Black History Month Events

Juneteenth
2024’s Juneteenth Sioux Falls celebration was a memorable occasion filled with joy, reflection, and community solidarity. But also included an incident which was a reminder of why our presence is crucial and needed in this community. Members of this Branch participated in events across the state, including the lighting of the Arc of Dreams in Sioux Falls, educational workshops, and community celebrations, emphasizing the significance of this historic day. Please contact us if you'd like to help plan Sioux Falls Juneteenth 2026, or promote Juneteenth events across our state!

Hair Product Drive
Through our Hair Product Drive initiative, to respond to a request for aid by residents of the United Gospel Mission with textured hair, we collected over 300 hair care products and $500 in donations, supporting dignity and empowerment for individuals in need.

Protest

In October, we organized and participated in protests addressing issues such as the appearance of controversial figures promoting hate speech in South Dakota, amplifying our voice against injustices and demanding accountability.

Membership Drive
Thanks to your efforts, we welcomed 24 new and renewed members in the month of November. As of January 12, 2024, our Branch has 67 members! Let’s continue this momentum with a goal of five new or renewing members each month in 2025!

New Leadership and Branch Elections
In December, we elected dynamic leaders committed to advancing our mission, including President-elect Nieema Thasin and Vice President James Moore. Their vision and energy promise to propel us into a brighter future. Contact us if you are interested in filling any of our open positions in the Executive Committee; Second Vice President, Assistant Secretary, and Assistant Treasurer.

Looking Forward to 2025

Goals

Recruit for Committees: Your unique skills and passions can make a difference. Consider signing up to join committees. These groups of committed individuals drive our initiatives forward.
Increase Membership: Let’s aim for consistent growth by welcoming five new or renewing members each month. Help with member recruitment and retention by joining the Membership Committee! Tell friends, family, and colleagues of the importance of membership.
Meeting Input: We value your feedback! Let us know if our current meeting days and times work for you or if adjustments are needed. Suggestions for meeting venues are also welcome to ensure smooth and accessible gatherings. Take the Survey
Office Hours: Our Branch’s commitment to accessibility and support will be reflected in regular office hours, providing a space for engagement, assistance, and collaboration. Details forthcoming!

Call to Action

Together, we’ve achieved so much, but our work is far from over. As we step into 2025, let’s continue to build on our successes. Share your ideas, get involved in committees, and help us expand our membership to strengthen our impact.

Upcoming Events for February: Black History Month

National African-American Read-In Month - Volunteers needed! Email us to schedule a time to record reading a Black history book, to be released in February.

2/15 Six Triple Eight Movie Screening at Good NAtured, Sioux Falls

2/12 NAACP Founders Day, 1909

2/14 Charter date of Unit 4102-B, 1940 - Happy 85th birthday to us!

2/22 Image Awards 2025 Viewing Party, Sioux Falls

Visit our Branch website for more information and updates, and feel free to reach out with your suggestions or questions.

Thank you for being an essential part of our journey this year. Here’s to a 2025 filled with progress, unity, and triumphs!

In Solidarity,

Nieema Thasing

President,

NAACP Sioux Falls Branch 4102-B

PO Box 2611

Sioux Falls, SD 57101