NAACP Chicago Westside Branch Announces 2025 Freedom Fund Concert to Support Civil Rights Advocacy
The NAACP Chicago Westside Branch is hosting its first Freedom Fund concert in seven years, featuring Terisa Griffin and Hiplet Ballerinas, to raise critical funds for civil rights, economic justice, and community programs on Chicago's West Side.
The NAACP–Chicago Westside Branch has announced its 2025 Freedom Fund Concert Fundraiser, scheduled for September 20, 2025, at the Kehrein Center for the Arts. This marks the branch's first Freedom Fund celebration in seven years, highlighting a renewed commitment to addressing urgent civil rights and economic justice issues on Chicago's West Side.
The event will feature headline performances by Terisa Griffin, known for her powerful voice and soulful presence, and the world-renowned Hiplet Ballerinas. Under the theme "The Fierce Urgency of Now: Reignite! Rebuild! Recommit!", the concert serves as a call to action amid unprecedented rollbacks in funding and policies affecting marginalized communities.
Funds raised will directly support the NAACP Chicago Westside Branch's year-round advocacy efforts in housing, education, economic development, and criminal justice reform. The organization emphasizes that strong advocacy is critically needed to combat systemic inequities impacting West Side residents.
Tickets are available at https://www.cwbnaacp.org, with VIP tickets priced at $125 including a pre-reception and premium seating, and general admission tickets at $50. The event will also honor community leaders Vera G. Davis, Nathaniel Gaither, Angela Taylor, and Schanel "Princess" Shaw for their contributions to civil rights and social justice.
Sacella M. Smith, Co-Chair of the Freedom Fund Concert Committee, stated that the concert is a rallying cry for justice and Westside revitalization, underscoring the importance of collective action and community support in advancing equity and opportunity.