The NAACP is set to bring thousands of leaders, activists and community members to Chicago this summer for its 117th National Convention, marking a historic return to the city and a renewed focus on advancing civil rights across the country.
Scheduled for July 18–22 at McCormick Place West, the convention will gather what organizers describe as a broad coalition of “change-makers, thought-leaders, entrepreneurs, scholars, entertainers, influencers and creatives” to address issues impacting Black communities nationwide.
This year’s theme, ‘We The People,’ reflects both the nation’s approaching 250th anniversary and the organization’s continued emphasis on grassroots advocacy and civic engagement.
“This country is governed by the U.S. Constitution, which begins with the reminder ‘We, The People’—not the politicians, not the wealthy,” organizers said in announcing the theme. “The equal rights, quality education, accessible healthcare, and diversity we seek are within our reach.”
The convention will feature a full slate of programming, including general sessions addressing the state of Black America, advocacy forums focused on key policy issues, and networking events designed to connect leaders from across generations. Attendees will also have access to ‘The Hub,’ a central space for community engagement, live discussions and cultural experiences.
In addition to policy and advocacy work, the event will highlight the next generation of leaders through the ACT-SO national competition, which showcases high school students excelling in science, technology, the arts and entrepreneurship.
The 2026 gathering carries added historical significance, as it marks the first time in nearly 30 years that the NAACP has held its national convention in Chicago. The city has deep ties to the organization’s history, hosting its first national convention there in 1926—exactly 100 years before this summer’s return.
NAACP President/CEO Derrick Johnson said Chicago’s legacy and cultural influence make it an ideal location for the milestone event.
“Chicago sits at the intersection of Black history and Black future,” Johnson said. “We’re excited to bring the largest nationwide cohort of Black advocates to the Windy City.”
State and local leaders have also welcomed the convention, noting its importance both culturally and economically. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker called the event an opportunity to highlight the state’s commitment to racial justice and celebrate the legacy of Black activism.
“100 years after the first NAACP conference took place in Chicago, I couldn’t be more proud to welcome them back,” Pritzker said.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson echoed that sentiment, saying the city is eager to host an event rooted in the same values that have shaped its history.
“As a city rooted in Black history and committed to carrying forward the values of the NAACP, there is no better place for this historic event,” he said.
Registration for the convention is now open to both NAACP members and the general public, with organizers encouraging early sign-ups as they prepare for what is expected to be one of the organization’s largest gatherings in recent years.
As the NAACP returns to Chicago a century after its first convention there, leaders say the mission remains unchanged: to bring people together, build community and continue the fight for equality and justice.
