New York: Thompson Delivers Fiery Speech at National Action Network Convention

Nicholas Marcus Thompson speaking in New York. May 30, 2024

May 30, 2024, New York — Nicholas Marcus Thompson delivered a fiery and deeply resonant address at the National Action Network (NAN) Annual Convention, one of the most high-profile civil rights gatherings in North America. The convention featured a keynote address by President Joseph R. Biden and was convened by Reverend Al Sharpton, bringing together leading voices from across politics, civil rights, business, and culture.

The event drew prominent figures including Whoopi Goldberg, Caroline Wanga, Michelle Gadsden-Williams, Dr. Phillip Ozuah, and civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, underscoring the national stature of the gathering.

In his remarks, Thompson opened with a call to unity, inviting the audience to turn to one another and declare, “Together, we stand for justice!” He spoke forcefully against the growing attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, warning that efforts to dismantle DEI are not just policy shifts, but assaults on dignity, human rights, and decades of hard-won progress.

Thompson emphasized that racism knows no borders, and neither can the struggle to confront it. He called for solidarity across countries, movements, and generations, urging the audience to stand united against regression and to continue pushing forward toward a truly inclusive society.

His address struck a powerful chord in the room. Following the speech, host Lord Simon Woolley praised Thompson’s message.

Lord Simon Woolley, Member of the House of Lords of the United Kingdom, praised Thompson following his speech.

The moment at the National Action Network Convention marked another milestone in Thompson’s international advocacy, reinforcing his role in connecting the fight against systemic discrimination in Canada with the broader global movement for racial justice and human rights.