As the Detroit NAACP marked the start of its 71st Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner season, leaders emphasized that the organization’s 117-year mission remains as urgent as ever. Framing the moment around what he called “the fierce urgency of now,” Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony reminded supporters that civil rights progress demands continued action, not comfort in past victories. “Liberty or oppression. The choice is ours,” he said, calling on the community to stay engaged at a time when advocacy matters most.