Constance “Connie” Parker, is known for her passion and strong contribution to the city civil rights struggle for more than 30 years .
Parker, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Pittsburgh Unit (NAACP) has blazed an incredible trail throughout Pittsburgh and within the Black community for more than 30 years.
Parker is one of three “In the Spirit of King” like veteran leaders the New Pittsburgh Courier is spotlighting in it’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Special Edition on newsstands now.
“I’ve been an advocate for the Civil Rights for over 30 years. I first decided to become a member of the NAACP because I wanted to be apart of something for the people, I didn’t want to just be another member— but truly do something for the people,” Parker said.
Parker and the NAACP are not only looking to blur the color lines, but are also fighting to make Blacks wake up and take a look at the world they are living in.
“There is no greater country than America. No, I haven’t been all over the world. But I do travel, and I’ve seen enough to know that our country is great. But right now, it’s not. The killings and the things that are taking place is ridiculous. Any time children are being shot in the streets like they are wild animals, it’s ridiculous! You can’t get a better education than you can right here. It’s not that the police are not educated, and they are well trained. But there is no excuse for the hatred that they have in their hearts. We need to take a deeper look at this hatred that is eating away at our country,” Parker said.
She is fighting for change and peace. Parker makes her presence known, and is a force to reckon with. She says that the only way to win, you have to get in the ring and fight. And it’s time that we let the world know that we are here.
“Its time that Blacks stand up. Defend our selves,” she said. “Let the world know what we’re gonna do, and how we are going to do it. I believe change starts at the pulpit. God is not dead, I’ve had three strokes and I’m still kicking. I recognize my purpose. I know that I’m here on this earth to make a little change.”
The NAACP president recognizes that the NAACP has much work to do in this new year.
“The NAACP is the biggest and baddest civil rights organization in the world,” she said. “But if people in positions are not doing their part, nothing will be done and no changes will be made.
“Which is why voting should be taken more seriously. It all comes down to if the president, senators, and other elected official, or any person in leadership positions are doing their jobs and being accountable for what they said they would offer. And if not, we don’t need them taking up a seat.”
Parker’s passion speaks volume throughout her speeches, and strong leadership skills.
“We are too concerned about the things that do not matter. People may think they are superior because of money or a career. But through the eyes of God, we all look the same. I may be the President of the NAACP, but at the end of the day I’m just another woman walking through that door,” Parker said.“ I’m the same Connie Parker with or without the position of president, and I intend on using this blessing God has blessed me with to continue to spread change.”
She mentioned a few of her heroic figures in her life that she looks up to because of their hearts and dedication to the people: Harvey Adams, Bird Brown, and Tim Stevens, just to name a few. All three were previous presidents of the Pittsburgh NAACP.
“Its time for us to get real here. Let’s demand our respect,” Parker said.
She thanks the New Pittsburgh Courier for the stories that the paper publishes, and providing Blacks the voice to be heard on a public platform. Again, she said that the NAACP has much work to do but is confident that as long as she is President, it will get done.
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