The National Action Network (“NAN”) was formally incorporated on April 4, 1994 as a not-for-profit 501(c) (4) organization. This date was important to the organization because it marked the anniversary each year of the assassination of Dr. King and the organization’s efforts to be one of the Keepers of the Dream.

The National Action Network is headquartered in New York City. It has chapters throughout the United States and maintains regional offices in Washington, D.C.; Atlanta, GA; Detroit, MI.; Chicago, IL.; Dallas, TX.; Las Vegas, NV; and Los Angeles, CA.  The NAN Chairman is the Reverend. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and the National Field Director is Reverend DeVes Toon

National Action Network (“NAN”) was founded in New York City in 1991 by the Reverend Al Sharpton and a group of activists that were committed to the principles of non-violent direct action and civil disobedience that was a direct outgrowth of the movement that was built and led by the Reverend Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.  Rev. Sharpton has served as the organization’s president since its founding.  The Memphis Chapter - President is Gregory Grant. 

NAN maintains a strong issues platform with regard to Law Enforcement, Immigrant Rights, Election Reform, Education Reform, Prisoner’s Rights, Health and Disability Protections; Employment Rights; Business Development; Housing; Agencies for Child Development, Youth Issues; Homelessness and more recently a Decency Initiative. Membership in the National Action Network is opened to everyone regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin.