Episode 4 -April 2026 | NAACP Akron Power & Community Podcast

In this episode of Power & Community, Dr. Lathardus Goggins II and Willie B break down the key takeaways from the NAACP Akron April General Meeting—where community, policy, and purpose intersect.The discussion opens with with a discussion on Afrofuturism and a reminder of the importance of upcoming events like the Scholarship Luncheon and Freedom Fund Dinner.A significant portion of the meeting focused on youth mental health, particularly the rising rates of suicide among Black youth. This episode confronts that reality directly, emphasizing awareness, access to support, and the urgency of removing stigma. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 988 for immediate support (* for additional information).The episode also highlights the impact of ACT-SO and the critical role the Akron community plays in meaningfully supporting young people.Listeners will also hear updates from key committees.A discussion on voter readiness outlining recent changes that could affect ballot access.In education, the NAACP Akron policy brief on safety and nurturing continues to gain traction, influencing district-level conversations around social emotional learning, restorative practices, and culturally responsive approaches. The episode also reflects on recent public discussions regarding the future of public education in Akron.Finally, the episode sets the stage for a deeper conversation on environmental racism and its direct impact on Black communities—connecting local realities to broader national patterns.Resources Mentioned:NAACP Akron: https://naacpakron.orgPolicy Brief & Recommendations: Safe and Nuturing Schools - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_ghd3xMtibKNV0CdUu3k8FPYHAYdCx3k/view?usp=sharingVoter Information Resources Summit County - https://lookup.boe.ohio.gov/vtrapp/summit/vtrlookup.aspxOhio - https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/voterlookup.aspx* Suicide Prevention Resources – Akron & Summit County, OhioIf you or someone you know needs support, help is available:Call or Text 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential) Summit County Crisis Line: 330-434-9144 (24/7 local support) ADM Crisis Center (Akron): 10 Penfield Ave – walk-in services available Portage Path Emergency Services: 330-762-6110 Crisis Text Line: Text 4HOPE or START to 741741 For youth: Akron Children’s PIRC – 330-543-7472 In immediate danger: Call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team officer Ongoing support is available through NAMI Summit County and the Summit County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Also, consider the following culturally competent and responsive mental health resources:Mental Health First Aid | https://www.loveakron.org/mhfaSeven P Healthcare Services | https://sevenphealthcare.com/our-services/Minority Behavioral Health Group | https://mbhg.orgNAACP Akron Power & Community Podcast is available now wherever you get your podcasts or visit - https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/2500020/episodes.NAACP Akron website - www.NAACPAkron.org