BUFFALO, N.Y. – The Buffalo branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People saluted local humanitarians and honored the memory of its former president, Frank Mesiah, Saturday.

The 52nd annual NAACP Medgar Evers Awards was held at the Buffalo Convention Center. 

The organization is still reeling from the loss of Mesiah, who passed away in April.

This week also marks the 55th anniversary of the assassination of Mississippi civil rights leader, Medgar Evers.

"A resident of Jackson, Mississippi, the home of Medgar Evers, I think it's wonderful that his legacy is being celebrated here in Buffalo, New York,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson.

"We're [NAACP] needed more now than any other time with the increase of racial hate crimes, intolerance, but more importantly, the midterm election and the census. This is the time that the NAACP is built for to ensure that our communties’ voices are heard.”

NAACP Buffalo Branch President Reverend Mark Blue highlighted the issues communities of color face in Western New York, including gentrification, quality education and economic disparity.

Buffalo’s NAACP is focused on relaunching its youth chapter.

In addition to offering an afro-centric Olympic program, Buffalo’s branch is also finalizing details for a new scholarship.

Despite the many battles won during NAACP’s 109-year history, Blue says it is important for citizens to not become complacent.

"Racism is still alive,” said Blue. “It’s still one of the areas of concern that is in our community, in our state and in our country."