Race & Social Justice

Founded in 1894, YWCA from its inception has been dedicated to the well-being of women and families of all races and faiths. Our work to advance social justice is grounded in the belief that all people deserve to live in dignity, free from violence, racism and discrimination. 

Since 2009, YWCA has worked to deepen the integration of racial equity and social justice in every aspect of its work. The Race and Social Justice Initiative keeps the agency focused on the manner, process and actions by which it will achieve its mission.

Race and Social Justice Goals:

• Internal culture which supports the elimination of institutional racism, sexism, and other discriminatory practices
• Increased knowledge on the intersection of poverty, class, race, and gender
• Support authentic, trust-based relationships with communities and each other

How RSJ work helps staff:

• Deepens their understanding of YWCA’s mission and vision
• Understand that YWCA’s works to eliminate racism and empower women is paradigm-shifting social justice work
• Understand the concepts in use at YWCA Seattle | King |Snohomish
• Assist their understanding that YWCA’s work to eliminate racism and empower women is paradigm-shifting social justice work
• Recognize and better understand ways in which we must collaborate and build on partnerships with people and organizations from communities of color and other marginalized communities
• Understand and be able to discuss the ways in which each participant will use knowledge learned to continue placing people served through YWCA at the center of our work

YWCA is a key member of the community. We share a passion for change and work toward it locally by advocating on issues that impact our program participants and services.