Activists are urging the NAACP to act after a former North Carolina state NAACP leader was accused of sexual harassment.

On Wednesday, Jazmyne Childs held a press conference and publicly accused Rev. Curtis Gatewood of sexual harassment, according to WTVD. Her family and several community leaders were present, including former state president Rev. William Barber.

The incidents reportedly happened in 2017, the year Childs was hired as Youth and College Division Field Secretary. The News Observer reports someone told Childs to avoid being alone with Gatewood shortly after her hiring. At the time, Gatewood helped the organization host events. He is a former president of the Durham chapter and served as vice president of the North Carolina chapter a decade ago.

In February 2017, Childs was making copies with another worker when Gatewood called her into his office for a private meeting. While they were talking, Gatewood allegedly stared at her crotch. Another time, Childs was at home sick with the flu and received a phone call from Gatewood. In a "seductive" voice, he told her to let him know if she needed anything.

The final and most disturbing incident happened while Childs was helping with a going-away party for another co-worker. Since it was a surprise party, the lights were dimmed, and Gatewood took advantage of it. He appeared behind Childs, pressed his penis against her and touched her.

"I yelled loudly, 'Why are you hovering over me? That is gross, move,'" she recalled. "He claimed that he was looking for a receipt, and then he stormed out."

Childs reported the behavior and an independent lawyer investigated. After five months, the lawyer substantiated the claims.

Gatewood is currently running for president of the North Carolina state chapter. Several members want his membership revoked, including Barber.

"I've given my heart and soul to this organization and I am ashamed," Barber said. "I'm hurt and I'm upset along with these women. It is time for you to act."

Childs wrote a letter urging the NAACP to ban Gatewood and institute sexual harassment training. She never received a response, reports WRAL.

"It's sexist, they cannot fight racism and protect sexism," Childs stated. "It is wrong."

Gatewood denied the allegations in a statement.

"I will not participate in any attack of the accuser or any NAACP family member in the media," he said. "I can only assure you, I have never sexually harassed anyone. I have a long history of working professionally in the workplace, and toward the uncompromising pursuit of justice throughout the community."

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