The NAACP was founded by a diverse group of concerned activists who answered the Call, in New York City on February 12, 1909. The NAACP Anchorage Branch was chartered in 1951. Founders such as John W. Thomas, Blanche McSmith, Clarence and Flossie Coleman, Joseph M. Jackson, John S. Parks and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Watts were spurred into action when the dream home of an African American was burned to the ground before he could move into an all-white neighborhood. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.