NAACP Rules Regarding Direct Action

Members often inquire about why local branches do not immediately demonstrate, picket or take other immediate action when some situation in the community seems to call for that type of response. Direct action is one of three methods used to attain the NAACP’s objectives. It is defined as agitation, demonstrations, marches, picketing, boycotts economic sanctions and other appropriate action. National policy provides the approval procedure that must be adhered to prior to branches engaging in any of those activities.

The Direct Action Approval Procedure requires branches to seek prior, timely authorization in writing from the National NAACP President/CEO and the General Counsel through the Regional Director. After submitting the request to engage in a direct action activity, the branch then must allow those officials reasonable opportunity to evaluate the proposed direct action, and respond to the branch’s request in writing. The result could be an approval or disapproval.

The other two methods used to obtain NAACP objectives are legislation and litigation.