As the newly elected as president of the Worcester Unit of the NAACP, Fred Taylor took the helm of the organization at a pivotal moment, when both Worcester and the rest of the country are actively reckoning with centuries of systemic racism, which has served to bolster white individuals and companies at the expense of communities of color.
In the wake of George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police, more companies are taking a hard look both internally and externally. As the largely white executives at these companies look for help in these efforts – as well as for outside organizations to help lead the way – Taylor and the high-profile NAACP are leaders for this movement.
A business representative for the Carpenters Union Local 336, Taylor’s work is entrenched in advocating for equity for Black, brown and other underserved communities. As the NAACP, concerned stakeholders and residents vie for tangible changes to everything from policing to environmental justice, Taylor’s position as the face of the organization carries a capacity to draw attention and resources to the greatest civil rights battles of our current moment.
What do you think the future holds for Central Mass.? “Over the past year, there has been an openness to positive change in policies in Worcester. This has been helpful in starting to help the community feel comfortable speaking up for change.”
Billiard man: “I like to play pool.”
