Communications Strategist- Political Participation

The NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) is the country’s first and foremost civil and human rights law organization. Founded in 1940 under the leadership of Thurgood Marshall, who subsequently became the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice, LDF was launched at a time when the nation’s aspirations for equality and due process of law were stifled by widespread state-sponsored racial inequality. From that era to the present, LDF’s mission has been transformative — to achieve racial justice, equality, and an inclusive society.

LDF’s litigation, public policy advocacy and public education programs in the substantive areas of criminal justice, economic justice, education, and political participation seek to ensure the fundamental and basic human rights of all people to quality education, economic opportunity, the right to vote and fully participate in democracy, and the right to a fair and just judicial system. LDF continues to make an impact in the area of public service and was recognized by Fast Company as one of its 2023 Brands That Matter under its public service category.

Reporting to the Editorial Director, the Communications Strategist for Political Participation is the subject matter expert responsible for the development of communications tactics and strategies that amplify LDF’s work and positions the organization as the stalwart legal guardian for racial equality. By connecting a deep understanding of LDF’s mission and history, and its work past, present and future the Communications Strategist is responsible for increasing visibility of the LDF brand and work and achievements of the political participation pillar.

LDF operates in a hybrid work environment where employees are expected to be in the office a minimum of two days per week, unless otherwise indicated.

Responsibilities:

• Draft statements and press releases; advise on media advisories and press pitches. Draft issue related talking points, messaging, and leader remarks. Develop proactive, original, and journalistic content on issues related to political participation.

• Provide rapid-response support as issues and events warrant.

• Work with the Digital and Media Relations Divisions to guide content creation and develop appropriate internal and external tactics.

• Must proactively follow current events in the media as well as hot button events unfolding on the ground to monitor trends and identify emerging issues related to political participation.
• Participate in key political participation and related internal meetings, serve as communications subject matter expert; lead the other members of the Communications team in understanding the priorities of the political participation and how to direct work; curate relationships with relevant external organizations and networks. 
• The Communications Strategist is tasked with conceiving, developing, and executing notable, actionable plans and projects that meet LDF standards and elevate its work and honors its history, in partnership with designated pillar/initiative point person.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree, required
• Master's Degree, preferred
• Preferred areas of study: Communications, English, Journalism, Political Science
• 8+ years of related professional experience 

This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts or requirements or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned. This description does not constitute a contract of employment and LDF may exercise its employment-at-will rights at any time.

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $80,000. 

LDF offers all eligible employees a generous benefits package.  To learn more click the following link 2025 Benefits Overview.

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