'We need to be visible.' National Action Network opening chapter to serve Stark, Summit

The National Action Network — the civil rights organization founded by the Rev. Al Sharpton — is opening a chapter in the Canton area to serve Stark and Summit counties.

The move comes after the death of Canton resident Frank E. Tyson, a Black man who died in police custody. Sharpton came to Canton and provided Tyson's eulogy on May 8.

Monique Conner, the president of the new chapter, said the timing was intentional and the National Action Network's presence in Canton is necessary. The local chapter will work under the nonprofit's Midwest Regional Director Marcia L. Thomas McCoy.

There are already National Action Network chapters in Cleveland and Cincinnati.

Akron and Canton have experienced some high-profile cases involving Black men killed by police in recent years. The shooting deaths of Jayland Walker in Akron and James Williams in Canton in 2022, for example, sparked protests in each community.

"It's just terrible, there have been too many deaths under police," Conner said.

Conner said she believes police de-escalation training should be reevaluated in light of Tyson's death.

"After Tyson, it's clear police training is not enough," she said. "It takes a village, and it takes more than just us in the city of Canton to make more happen."

Conner said the National Action Network plans to start with protests in courtrooms and that the group aims to address issues besides police brutality. She said other targeted issues include civil rights, voter suppression, crime and children's access to firearms.

"We need to be visible and we need to be transparent to get things done," Conner said. "I wouldn't think in 2024 we'd be so far behind, but it's clear we're needed."

Canton City Councilwoman Chris Smith said she shares the sentiment that the National Action Network is needed in the area. She said while she is not always a proponent of protests, the group anchoring itself in Canton and making its presence known would be beneficial to existing advocacy efforts in the city.

"I know the Network travels around. They had a presence at Tyson's funeral and I have no problem with them," Smith said. "I'm for anything and anyone that's for the good of the community and city, so I think they're needed here."

Conner said the the nonprofit intends to seek joint activism opportunities and events with other groups in the area, such as the NAACP. She said the National Action Network is reaching out to everyone, and emphasized the historical importance of getting as many people as possible involved in the fight for justice.

"History has shown us Black people haven't helped ourselves alone," she said. "Take the Underground Railroad, which ran in great part due to good-hearted Caucasians. Without that, slavery wouldn't have ended."

Thomas West, president and CEO of the Greater Stark County Urban League, expressed interest in working with the National Action Network in Canton. He said he has worked with the chapters in Cleveland and Cincinnati in the past, as well as Sharpton himself at the local and national levels.

"[The National Action Network has] done good work for civil rights," West said. "We at the Urban League are prepared and willing to work with any of those seeking to ensure social justice as long as it is peaceful."

The Canton chapter does not currently have an office, but Conner said the nonprofit is searching for space in areas such as the YMCA or faith centers. Supporters seeking National Action Network memberships can purchase one for $25. Conner said for further information, people can reach out to her at 812-207-0294.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: National Action Network opens Canton chapter after Frank Tyson's death