In a groundbreaking moment on the first day of Black History Month, Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III was formally installed as the President and CEO of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, marking a pivotal chapter in the organization's commitment to social justice. The grand installation event, held at the Black Academy of Arts and Letters on February 1, 2024, drew a sold-out crowd of influential figures and luminaries from across the nation. The VIP attendees included Roland Martin, Rev. Al Sharpton (NAN), Shavonne Arline-Bradley (NCNW), Dr. Michael Sorrell, and Dr. Ron Daniels, among others.

The installation ceremony, emceed by the accomplished Tashara Parker, 4X Emmy award-winning journalist, was broadcasted via a livestream on YouTube by Roland Martin Unfiltered, emphasizing the importance of Black-owned media in amplifying pivotal moments. The event, as well as the accompanying President's Inaugural Social Justice Conference the following day, was skillfully presented by Sound Design Studios, a distinguished Dallas-based Black-owned production company.

Rev. Al Sharpton's impassioned keynote speech resonated with the audience, highlighting the challenging times faced by the African American community and emphasizing the need for fervent advocacy. His sentiments echoed throughout the gathering, with numerous speakers praising Dr. Haynes' selection and recognizing his profound contributions to social justice as a pastor.

The event, which seamlessly blended homage to Black history with a vision for the future, saw speakers such as Elsie Cooke Holmes, International President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, emphasizing the urgency of collective action. Congressman Jasmine Crockett stressed the transformative power of community support, a sentiment echoed by members of historically Black fraternities and sororities.

Renowned journalist Roland Martin underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts among Black businesses, churches, organizations, and the press. This call for unity was a common theme, mirroring Dr. Haynes' commitment to fostering collaboration in his new leadership role.

The President's Inaugural Social Justice Conference, hosted at Paul Quinn College on February 2, 2024, further solidified the Rainbow PUSH Coalition's dedication to effecting change. Featuring prominent speakers such as Tamika Mallory, Pastor Mike McBride, and Dr. Brianna K. Parker, the conference delved into critical topics like economic justice, educational equity, and the ongoing fight against systemic injustices.

Dr. Haynes, recognized for his induction into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame in 2016, is now set to lead the Rainbow PUSH Coalition with a national agenda addressing pressing issues, including courts, the end of affirmative action, economic justice, educational equity, and climate change's impact on communities of color. As a prominent social justice pastor, Dr. Haynes exemplifies the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., championing faith and justice intersections.

The significance of Dallas in Dr. Haynes' journey adds another layer to this historic moment, with his longstanding commitment to the local community evident in his role as the senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church. As the leader of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Dr. Haynes is poised to guide the organization towards a future defined by justice, equality, and community collaboration.

For those interested in the ongoing efforts of Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, stay tuned for updates and insights on their impactful initiatives in the realms of social justice, advocacy, and community empowerment.