10/02/2026
As President of the NAACP Greater Grand Rapids Branch, it is my great honor to recognize Vanessa Eppes as the recipient of the Walter Bergman Voting Rights and Political Representation Award.
This award recognizes an individual who has the vision, courage, and determination to advance freedom and equality for all people locally and nationally. It bears the name of Walter Bergman, a Freedom Rider whose commitment during the civil rights movement represented the very best of courageous civic action. After moving to Grand Rapids in the 1960s, Mr. Bergman continued his service as an active member of the NAACP Greater Grand Rapids Branch. His legacy reminds us that the struggle for justice does not end; it is carried forward by people who are willing to show up, speak out, organize, educate, and vote.
For Vanessa, voting is more than a civic responsibility; it is a legacy. With a mother born in Mississippi in 1923, she understands that the right to vote was not freely given. It was fought for, protected, and often paid for with tremendous sacrifice.
Vanessa’s own journey in voter engagement began in Detroit during Kwame Kilpatrick’s campaign, when she first experienced voter registration work. When she returned home, she continued that commitment by becoming involved with ProActive and dedicating herself to registering, educating, and mobilizing voters throughout our community.
Vanessa believes that we must continue to carry the torch that our ancestors lit before us. She recognizes and appreciates leaders such as Kathy Harris, whose steadfast commitment has helped keep that torch burning. Vanessa has taken that inspiration and translated it into consistent, meaningful action.
Her work is visible across our community. Whether at local high schools, MLK Park, neighborhood events, voter-registration tables, or even on street corners, Vanessa meets people where they are. She understands that civic engagement cannot be limited to election season or confined to government buildings. It belongs in our neighborhoods, our churches, our schools, our parks, and every space where people gather.
When we see dedicated community advocates such as Debra Clanton, Kathy Harris, and Gert Groom working voter-registration booths, we know Vanessa is often nearby, serving with that same purpose and determination. These women wear “Voters and Human Rights” not literally across their chests, but through their actions, their commitment, and their willingness to ensure that our community is informed, represented, and empowered. Vanessa exemplifies that spirit of service.
Voting matters because it is one of the most powerful ways our community can shape the decisions that affect our daily lives. Our votes influence who represents us, how our resources are allocated, how our schools are supported, how public safety is addressed, and whether the needs of our neighborhoods are heard.
But civic engagement must extend beyond casting a ballot. It means attending public meetings, asking questions, holding leaders accountable, staying informed, and sharing accurate information with our neighbors. Vanessa demonstrates this every day.
Vanessa is a regular attendee at Grand Rapids City Commission meetings. She listens carefully, speaks up on issues affecting our residents, and carries important information back into the community. In doing so, she helps ensure that people understand the decisions being made and how those decisions may affect their families, neighborhoods, and futures.
Vanessa also serves as a Precinct Delegate in her district. In this grassroots leadership role, she helps ensure that the voices, concerns, and priorities of residents are represented in the political process. She understands that democracy is strongest when everyday people are involved, not only when it is time to vote, but throughout the year.
Vanessa’s commitment goes far beyond participation. She educates, engages, and empowers others to use their voices. Her steady presence in voter-registration efforts, her commitment to voter education, her engagement in local government, and her service as a Precinct Delegate reflect the kind of leadership that strengthens our democracy.
We celebrate Vanessa Eppes not simply for what she has accomplished, but for the example she sets. She reminds us that each registered voter matters. Each informed resident matters. Each voice raised for justice matters. And every generation has a responsibility to protect, preserve, and advance the rights for which our ancestors fought.
It is with great pride and deep appreciation that we honor Vanessa Eppes with the Walter Bergman Voting Rights and Political Representation Award.
Tickets: https://naacp2026.planningpod.com/
