Disney supports diversity through NAACP sponsorship
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., July 15, 2013 – Thousands of delegates from across the United States attended the NAACP’s 104th annual convention in Orlando, which The Walt Disney Company has participated in as a sponsor for more than 20 years.
Members of the nation’s oldest civil rights organization gathered for workshops, training and recognition events related to civil rights advocacy and education. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to diversity and education, Disney provided support for the convention as well as the Orlando branch of the NAACP and the organization’s youth ACT-SO program (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics).
“Disney’s long-time support of the NAACP nationally and in Central Florida shows a commitment to diversity and equality,” said Kran Riley, president of the Orange County branch of the NAACP. “That support helps us continue to make a difference in our community.”
As part of Disney’s participation in the convention, Kevin Preston, director of Military Initiatives for The Walt Disney Company, participated in a panel discussion about U.S. veterans. Preston shared details about Disney’s Heroes Work Here initiative, which launched in 2012 as a way to support military families and veterans as they transition to civilian life. The company has hired more than 1,000 veterans and will hire hundreds more over the next two years.
The NAACP convention began Saturday, July 13 and wraps up Wednesday, July 17with the annual Spingarn Dinner / Freedom Fund Banquet honoring renowned opera singer Jessye Norman