A letter from the NAACP-Metro DFW President:

Hello Freedom Fighters,

Things have been a whirlwind since January 20th with the new United States administration. It seems that the Project 2025 playbook is taking shape as a reality. But as Texans, we must also stay vigilant during the 89th Texas Legislative Session. The policies being enacted at the national level are directly impacting our lives, and the legislation being introduced at the Texas Capitol will shape our future as well.

You can stay informed about the current legislative session and track bills by signing up for notifications via the Texas Legislature Online: https://capitol.texas.gov/

As we navigate this legislative session, I want to highlight two invaluable resources to keep you informed and engaged: Texas Legislature Online and the Texas State Law Library’s overview of the 89th Regular Legislative Session. This session began on January 14, 2025, and will continue through June 2, 2025.

The Texas State Law Library offers comprehensive information on the legislative process, including bill tracking, session schedules, and access to key legislative documents. Utilizing these resources will empower you to stay updated, track important legislation, and actively participate in advocacy efforts.

The Texas Legislature Online website provides real-time access to legislative activities, including bill searches, committee hearings, and vote records. This platform allows Texans to follow proposed laws, read bill analyses, and engage in the law-making process by submitting comments and contacting legislators directly.

I have also created a Texas Legislative Take Action Plan graphic, which you will find in this newsletter. Please save, share, and take action to make a meaningful impact during this legislative session.

Make plans to join us for our upcoming DFW Metro NAACP General Meeting, where we will discuss key bills to monitor.

Senator Royce West recently shared in his February 14, 2025 newsletter that Governor Abbott has declared seven “emergency” items, allowing immediate legislative action on these issues. Typically, the state constitution prohibits the passage of bills within the first 60 days of a regular session unless they are designated as emergencies by the governor. The seven emergency items are:

1. Property Tax Relief
2. Water Infrastructure Investment
3. Teacher Pay Raises
4. Expansion of Career Training
5. School Choice
6. Bail Reform
7. Creation of a Texas Cyber Command

Please make plans to participate in the various legislative advocacy days scheduled for March 16-19. Flyers with details are included in this newsletter.

You can get involved in several ways, and every effort makes a difference. You can:

• Write letters to your representatives.
• Call your legislators and express your stance on key issues.
• Attend hearings and provide testimony.
• Participate in legislative and lobby days, either as an individual or with advocacy groups aligned with your values.

Membership Renewal Reminder:

If your membership expires in January or February, please renew it as soon as possible. Staying united and engaged is critical to continuing our fight for justice, equality, and progress.

This year is packed with opportunities to make an impact. Volunteer with us, join a committee, or attend an upcoming event. Watch your inbox and social media for updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out with your ideas or questions.

Urgent Call to Action:

Our community is facing many pressing needs, and we need your help to meet them. To fulfill the mission of the NAACP and make a lasting impact, we require members, leaders, volunteers, financial support, and other resources. We invite you to dedicate just 1 to 3 hours a week or month to help strengthen our branch and further our cause. Your time, talents, and contributions are essential to our success. Join us for our Volunteer and Get Involved meeting, where you can find out how you can get involved and make a difference.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our state. Let’s stay informed, engaged, and committed to advocating for policies that benefit our communities.

Peace and Power,
Rev. Crystal Bates
President, DFW Metro NAACP
Vice Chair, Texas State NAACP