Local NAACP reacts to recent violence

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The President of the Chattanooga Hamilton County NAACP chapter, Dr. Elenora Woods says her organization has always stood on the side of justice and peace.

“We in no way support any violence, against anyone, and we’re all about equality, justice for all, which includes police officers or those who have fallen victim to what we feel are acts of crimes against people of color,” Woods said.

Dr. Woods says our city’s local NAACP chapter has been working closely with the Chattanooga Police Department for years now, and most recently met with Chief Fletcher to discuss the importance of continued community policing.

“People are beginning to work together. Whether it be the police department and the community, or the community and our elected officials, we all have to collaborate together.”

And as our country continues to mourn the lives of those lost, Dr. Woods says her organization will continue to be a voice for those who no longer have one.

“The NAACP has always been an advocate for equality and justice. And in any of the situations, we won’t rest until justice is served, and so we should all remain peaceful. We should all let justice have its day in the court room and remember that everybody’s lives are important, in particular black lives right now because right now that’s what we’re seeing is an astronomical number of African Americans dying.”