Stand Against Racism

Stand Against Racism is a signature campaign of YWCA USA to build community among those who work for racial justice and to raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional and structural racism in our communities. This campaign is one part of our larger national strategy to fulfill our mission of eliminating racism.

The 2020 Stand Against Racism features a social media campaign to raise awareness of the myriad racial justice issues that pose barriers to civic engagement for communities of color while exploring how the tools of civic engagement can advance the work of justice in your community and empower people of color.

In 2019, YWCA USA hosted a policy briefing on Capitol Hill: “Ensuring Safety and Opportunity for Immigrant Women.” In collaboration with YWCA’s across the country, organizations raised our collective voice around the critical racial justice issue of supporting and protecting immigrant women, children, families, and communities.

The 2018 Stand Against Racism featured the Regional Coalition Against Hate. Representatives from coalition member agencies shared stories and their experiences with having Courage Under Fire. Community members had the opportunity to learn more about the coalition, including how to get involved.

The 2017 event on April 27, 2017, featured spoken word poet Kendall Young, the (CA) ^2Dance Crew and addresses from local community leaders including United Way’s Stephanie Byred, Ashleee Consulting’s Aerierl Ashlee, UC Law’s Center for Race, Gender, and Social Justice’s Emily Houh, Santa Maria Community Service’s Luz Elena Schemmel, and Hamilton County Coroner Dr. Lakshmi Sammarco

The 2016 theme was On A Mission for Girls of Color! to amplify the national discussion about the impacts of institutional and structural racism on the lives of girls of color.

The YWCA Cincinnati Stand Against Racism included a week-long social media campaign culminating in a May 2, 2016 event on Fountain Square featuring the following speakers: Shakila Ahmad,  Islamic Center of Greater Cincinnati; Dr. Michael Battle,  National Underground Railroad Freedom Center; David Singleton, Ohio Justice & Policy Center; Karla Boldery, Lulac Cincinnatii; Chara Jackson, Greater Cincinnati Urban League; Dr. Ericka King-Betts, The Cincinnati Human Relations Commission; and Yvette Simpson | President Pro Tem Cincinnati City Council. Mayor John Cranley proclaimed May 2, 2016, as Stand Against Racism Day.