A local civil rights historian will be the featured speaker at the Niles branch National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s (NAACP) 73rd Freedom Fund Banquet this weekend.

George W. Garner, who serves as the tours and collections coordinator for the Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center, will speak at the event, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Greater Niles Senior Center, located at 1109 Bell Rd., Niles. A social hour begins at 6 p.m.

Cost to attend is $30 for adults or $15 for children under 12 years old. It includes a meal catered by AngLes, of South Bend, Indiana. The event will feature live music, a presentation of awards and recognition of NAACP members.

Saundria Wilson, Niles NAACP president, said the event serves as the organization’s main fundraiser for the year.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to come interact with one another and learn about the NAACP and how it functions,” she said.

The banquet’s theme is pursuing liberty in the face of injustice.

Those wanting to attend are advised to reserve tickets by calling Georgia Boggs at (269) 683-3873. Tickets will also be available at the door.