WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – The NAACP Indiana Branch #3066 is holding a town hall on Tuesday, Feb. 3, focused on freedom of speech policies. The event will run from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Earlham College CoLab and will include free food.

The town hall will bring community members together for discussions led by facilitators in smaller breakout sessions, rather than the usual panel format in previous meetings. The goal is to allow for more in-depth conversations about what people can and cannot say, especially online.

“The NAACP really is trying to provide the community with the knowledge and tools it needs to navigate some of the changing policies that are occurring,” said Debbie Carter, with the NAACP.

The goal is to share information, data, and guidance to attendees.

This marks the fourth town hall hosted by Richmond’s chapter.

“Really, we’re just looking at what’s happening in the world, what’s happening in our country and in our city, and trying to fill the needs and concerns,” Carter said.

Attendees can expect to leave with actionable ideas on how to make a difference in their community.

“You’re going to learn something,” Carter said. “You’re going to really learn how you can fit into what’s happening today, how you can make an impact, how you can make a difference.”

She added that community members have many ways to get involved, from writing and calling officials to donating to causes.

The NAACP is a non-partisan organization. The town hall is sponsored by the Wayne County Foundation, Reid Health, and Indiana University East, with Earlham College serving as the host.

Carter said the Richmond branch is a diverse group and welcomes community members of all backgrounds.

“We have something for everyone,” she said.

More information can be found on the NAACP Facebook page.