Letters To Mr. Bond: Reflections of a Man, His Life and Legacy Pt. II
During the many years that Julian Bond served as the Chairman and Publisher of the NAACP’s official publication, The Crisis magazine, he set a very high bar for the content and circulation of this unique and historic magazine. He made sure that the vision of our founder, W.E.B. Du Bois, was reflected in the content of this, the official publication of the NAACP. Julian understood so very well that the “story of the darker race” needs to be told by us, the “darker race”. He made sure that our challenges, as well as our many accomplishments in every aspect of our lives, both here in the United States, as well as around the world, were reflected in this unique publication.
He continued as a faithful and contributing member of The Crisis Board of Directors even well after he took on another demanding volunteer NAACP role as of Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors. He attended our Crisis Board meetings on a regular basis; and made valuable suggestions for content as well as the business side of the magazine.
In many ways Julian resembled Du Bois, himself as both an intellectual and an activist, always focused on the important and significant issues that have negative impact on people of color everywhere. He was fearless in “calling out” bigotry and discrimination wherever he found it. His wise counsel and good humor will leave a huge void in our Crisis Board.
As the current Chairman and Publisher of The Crisis magazine, I am so very grateful for all that Julian contributed to continue the Du Bois vision and the encouragement and support he has given me as the Chairman and Publisher of the 106 year old official publication of the NAACP.
Laura D. Blackburne, Chairman And Publisher Of The Crisis Publishing Company, Inc.
On a personal note, I vividly remember Chairman Emeritus Bond’s words of wisdom and encouragement when I was seated onto the NAACP National Board of Directors in October of 2013. I asked and he graciously signed my copy of the NAACP history book. He was humble and gentle yet still a force of nature. I still remember my first time at a NAACP Annual Meeting when someone attempted to heckle the meeting. His graceful approach to handling the situation served as an example for my own leadership development. He will be forever cherished.
Best,
Da’Quan Marcell Love, B.A.
NAACP National Board of Directors
Former Chairman, NAACP National Youth Work Committee
My heart is deeply saddened by the loss of our civil rights giant, Julian Bond. He was a greatly admired hero whose mission was the achievement of justice and equality for all. He has been a tireless leader and a fearless warrior for social justice since the 1960s, starting with the formidable Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, The Southern Poverty Law Center, the Georgia legislature and the NAACP. Although he is no longer with us, it is undeniable that his trailblazing work has advanced justice and equality and made this world a much better place. We owe it to him to follow his example and honor his contribution. I offer my sincerest condolences to his wife Pamela, his children and the entire Bond family.
Dr. Marcella Maxwell, Vice Chairman, NAACP Special Contribution Fund
Julian Bond, the civil rights leader that led by his commitment to righteousness on behalf of those that sought hope. Mr. Bond’s examples of goodness and fair opportunities captured the hearts of so many for so long. He was stimulated and motivated to present the clarion call for the least of thee.
We mourn his homegoing, we honor his legacy. His legacy will lead us to provide moral character, honesty and upward movement in the future of civil rights worldwide. To God be the glory.
Hilton O. Smith, Senior Vice President, Turner Construction Company
NAACP Special Contributions Fund Trustee
Cleveland Branch NAACP President
