Hampton NAACP Warns of Misinformation Ahead of Redistricting Vote

Community leaders plan town hall to help voters identify false claims surrounding the April 21 referendum.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:08am

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As voting continues in the April 21 redistricting referendum in Hampton, Virginia, the local NAACP branch is raising concerns about misleading mailers and online messaging that could confuse voters. The organization is hosting a town hall event to provide residents with reliable information and help them spot misinformation surrounding the election.

Why it matters

Accurate information is crucial for voters to make informed decisions, especially on important issues like redistricting that can impact political representation. The Hampton NAACP is taking proactive steps to combat the spread of false claims and ensure the community has access to trustworthy sources ahead of the upcoming vote.

The details

The Hampton Branch of the NAACP says they've seen campaign-style mailers featuring quotes and endorsements from political figures who have not actually supported the positions being promoted. These conflicting messages have created confusion for some voters who may not closely follow the news or verify information online. In response, the NAACP is hosting a town hall event on April 6 that will feature a panel of experts in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, media, and law to help community members identify misinformation and understand how it spreads.

  • The redistricting referendum in Hampton is scheduled for April 21, 2026.
  • The NAACP town hall event will take place on April 6, 2026 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The players

Gaylene Kanoyton

President of the Hampton Branch of the NAACP.

Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church

The location hosting the NAACP town hall event in Hampton.

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What they’re saying

“There is a lot of disinformation and misinformation that is going on in this redistricting referendum.”

— Gaylene Kanoyton, President, Hampton NAACP

“They're saying President Obama is telling them to say no, and then they're saying in another mailer that's saying to vote yes.”

— Gaylene Kanoyton, President, Hampton NAACP

“People who don't pay attention to the news or social media, they just see the mail coming into their homes, and they're believing these mailers.”

— Gaylene Kanoyton, President, Hampton NAACP

What’s next

The NAACP town hall event on April 6 will provide Hampton residents with an opportunity to learn from experts on how to identify misinformation and get accurate information about the upcoming redistricting referendum.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the ongoing challenge of combating the spread of false and misleading information, especially around important political issues like redistricting. The Hampton NAACP's proactive efforts to educate the community and equip voters with the tools to spot misinformation are crucial for ensuring the integrity of the upcoming referendum.