The Citizens, The Call & The Cause

Rev Alonzo Braggs Letter to the Wilson Community
Appeal to Community for Solidarity and Inclusion
February 26, 2010

Dear Concerned Community,

I have recently become aware of several concerns surrounding the NAACP and its history locally. While these may be legitimate concerns, there is no need to allow these to impede our efforts to serve the total community and act in its best interest. We are not here to dominate or dictate. We will however, provide leadership where needed and when requested. We will also speak strongly and clearly to the “Powers that be” on behalf of those affected. In either case, we remain sensitive to the fact that we are all creatures on imperfections and possess failures and short comings. I feel that the matter of the utilities in Wilson City is one of the greatest opportunities for us to demonstrate our greatest skills and graces.

We must be patient, for we are the ones who are seeking the trust and confidence of the community. In several cases, a community that does not know, nor understand who and what we are nor what we do. We must also be sensitive to the needs and expressions of the community. We can do this together. We must do this together. We will work together to achieve the greater cause.

It is not the branch's position to suppress any person or organization in addressing the utilities issue. As a matter of fact we seek those who have the resources, experience, time, personal history, and willingness to either continue what they have begun or join the ranks of any who presently seek to do. The critical issue is whether or not we work in concert. The message that must be sent from anyone or any organization is that we do not allow separation that can remove our common focus and the strength we need to move forward.

My recommendation is the following. In addition to our present agenda, I am respectfully asking that all groups and individuals who have been in this fight and know the strengths and weaknesses to meet and share. The objective of this meeting would be to address how we can move forward in concert as a coalition working for the good of the people. It might also be a time to tactfully dispel some of the myths and put those things which separate us, to rest.

The problem of high utilities in Wilson is not a minority or majority issue. It extends beyond the racial lines and affects all socio economic classes. This is clearly not an east or west issue. This is a Wilson issue and must be addressed by the total community of Wilson and her neighbors to resolve. We cannot afford to allow anything or anyone to derail the freedom train! I call for all to get on board and let’s ride to lower utilities, greater service, fair and balanced rates, relevant and meaningful community support, and a thriving community sustained by citizens who care about what they have inherited, and are willing to sacrifice for generations following.

In concert with other passengers, I remain

The Reverend Alonzo Braggs, President
Wilson Branch National Association for the Advancement of Colored People

Branch # 5470 District # 11 Region # 5 South Eastern
Post Office Box 4714 - Wilson, North Carolina 27893
6952 Speight School Road - Wilson, North Carolina 27893
252-238-2886 Office/252-238-3019 Fax/910-991-5105 Cell
Email address: wilsonbranchnaacp@yahoo.com