Chicago Thursday, April 28, 2025
NAACP President’s Speaking Invitation Rescinded by State Bar of Texas
The State Bar of Texas withdrew a speaking invitation to Derrick Johnson, the NAACP’s president and CEO, due to a lawsuit filed by the NAACP against President Donald Trump’s administration. Johnson was set to speak at the state bar’s annual meeting in June.
Controversy Over Political Neutrality
The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration’s plan to dismantle the Education Department. The State Bar of Texas cited its rule of political neutrality, stating the lawsuit’s topic was not suitable for their event. Trey Apffel, the executive director, said the bar was unaware of the lawsuit until it was reported in the press.
NAACP’s Response
Johnson expressed surprise and disappointment, saying the State Bar of Texas is comprised of lawyers sworn to uphold the Constitution. “They have decided to censure free speech on notions of being political when it’s not political,” Johnson said.
Juneteenth Speech Cancelled
Johnson was scheduled to speak on Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The cancellation has sparked debate over free speech and political neutrality.
State Bar’s Rules
The State Bar of Texas is required by law to limit its communication to issues related to the practice of law. The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in November 2023 reinforced this requirement. The controversy highlights the tension between free speech and organizational neutrality.
