An interview with NAACP of Thurston County President Talauna Reed

Maureen Hicks

Angela Jefferson's previous JOLT columns introduced readers to the newly established Thurston County branch of the NAACP, its mission, and its goals.

To better understand the organization's priorities and vision for advancing racial equity in Thurston County, I interviewed NAACP of Thurston County President Talauna Reed. 

Reed previously served as first vice president, working closely with founding President Larry Jefferson. Earlier this year, Jefferson stepped down because of the growing demands of his position as Director of the Office of Public Defense. While his resignation was difficult for the branch, it also created an opportunity for new leadership. 

"I cried," Reed recalled. "Larry was someone I looked up to, and I was excited to be working alongside him." 

After talking with her adult children, who have supported her throughout years of community advocacy, and consulting with founding member Dr. Thelma Jackson, Reed accepted the responsibility of leading the organization. 

"I had already been doing much of the president's work in Larry's absence, and according to our bylaws, I have been called for such a time as this," Reed said.

Reed brings years of community organizing, advocacy, lived experience with racial discrimination, and a degree in organizational management. She says those experiences have prepared her to help build a strong and sustainable civil rights organization for Thurston County. 

Her priorities are guided by the branch's recently adopted three-year strategic plan, developed under her leadership with guidance from Dr. Thelma Jackson. The plan focuses on strengthening leadership, expanding committee work, building community partnerships, advocating for equitable public policy, and creating accountability to ensure meaningful progress. 

Asked about the relationship between the local branch and the national NAACP, Reed explained that while local branches operate under the National NAACP Constitution and Bylaws, they remain focused on local issues. 

"The national organization addresses systemic issues affecting the country, while local branches focus on the unique challenges facing their own communities. We create space for the difficult conversations that are necessary to move our community forward." 

Since receiving its charter, the Thurston County branch has worked to establish itself as a visible voice for civil rights. 

"We've been extremely busy these past two years and have made our presence known," Reed said. "Now we need to make our purpose known. The NAACP is not an enforcement agency. We are a grassroots civil rights organization that advocates for equity, educates the public, promotes civic engagement, and holds systems accountable." 

One initiative Reed hopes to develop is a formal community complaint process through a future legal redress committee. 

"Absolutely," she said. "As we continue implementing our strategic plan, expanding our standing committees, including legal redress, will be a priority. There is a real need for that kind of support in Thurston County." 

Reed believes her most important responsibility during her first year is strengthening the branch's infrastructure. As an entirely volunteer-led organization, she wants to ensure the NAACP has the leadership systems, committee structure, policies, and training necessary to sustain long-term advocacy. 

Another priority is creating a public-facing community equity dashboard.

The dashboard would organize data collected by the branch's committees in areas, such as housing, education, criminal justice, health and civic participation, while also tracking community-reported concerns about discrimination. By making this information accessible, the branch hopes to provide residents, advocates, and policymakers with reliable local data to inform decisions and support meaningful change. 

Still, Reed believes data alone is not enough. 

"No amount of data is more important than believing Black people when they say they have experienced racial discrimination," Reed said.

As the branch continues to grow, Reed emphasized the importance of community involvement. 

"I am genuinely grateful for our incredible membership and executive leadership for their unwavering support and commitment," she said. "We invite everyone who believes in equity, justice, and equal opportunity to join us as we continue building a stronger Thurston County." 

To learn more or become a member, click here.

The Thurston County NAACP's mission is to achieve equity, political rights, and social inclusion by advancing policies and practices that expand human and civil rights, eliminate discrimination, and accelerate the well-being, educational attainment, and economic security of Black people and all persons of color. 

Maureen Hicks, Ph.D., is a member of the Thurston County NAACP and a retired psychologist with a lifelong passion for advancing equal racial opportunity and helping fulfill America's promise of justice and equity for all.